The Planet Group

Job Description

Location: Conroe, TX (Must be open to working in Pecos, TX)

We are seeking a skilled Project Engineer – Desalination to lead and support process engineering initiatives across a range of innovative desalination and water treatment projects. This role will work cross-functionally with R&D, operations, and sales teams to develop and implement cutting-edge processes, ensuring project delivery from concept through startup and handover. Candidates must be open to working in Pecos, TX as project demands require.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new and existing desalination processes from conceptual design through operational implementation.
• Design and generate Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and develop complete material and energy balances.
• Use CAD software to create or modify engineering line drawings.
• Perform complex chemical engineering calculations to support process design and optimization.
• Collaborate with internal teams including R&D, operations, and sales to define project scope and provide technical guidance throughout the lifecycle.
• Act as project lead—responsible for defining scope of work, developing OPEX and CAPEX cost models, procuring equipment, writing test plans and procedures, and overseeing construction, commissioning, and startup.
• Communicate effectively through clear documentation, including End of Day (EOD) reports, presentations, and training materials.
• Provide training and mentorship to internal teams on process improvements and operational best practices.
• Participate in cross-functional team activities and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned by the Project Director.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in process or project engineering.
• Background in oil & gas, wastewater, or industrial/municipal water treatment is preferred.
• Experience with pilot and full-scale plant operations is a plus.

Certifications:

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Yellow, Green, or Black Belt) preferred.

Travel:

• Up to 50% travel required, including travel to and work in Pecos, TX, for extended periods of time.

Additional Requirements:

• Must pass pre-employment background check, medical evaluation, and drug/alcohol screening.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.

Technical Competencies

• Project Business Case Development
• Front-End Engineering Design (FEED)
• Bill of Quantities
• Membrane Desalination / Nano Filtration
• Management of Change (MOC)
• CAPEX/OPEX Estimation & ROI Analysis
• Project Scheduling & Resource Planning (MS Project)
• Supplier Evaluation & Contract Negotiation
• Construction Management & Vendor Expedition
• Project QA/QC and Status Reporting
• Project Commissioning & Pre-Startup Safety Review (PSSR)
• Operator Training & Handover Documentation
• Shutdown Planning & Work Permit Management
• Equipment Sizing (Pumps, Lines, Heat Exchangers)
• Electro-Mechanical Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis (5 Whys, A3, Fishbone)
• Plant Optimization, Automation, and Instrumentation
• Utilities & Boiler Systems
• Above Ground Storage Tank Compliance (API 650/653)
• Production Planning (SAP)
• Proficiency in MS Office and AutoCAD

At The Planet Group, we connect Engineering experts with opportunities that match their skills, goals, and ambition. From fast-moving startups to global enterprises, we partner with top organizations across industries—giving you access to roles where your contributions make a difference. Explore flexible options including contract, direct hire, and contract-to-hire, all supported by a team that puts people first.

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The Planet Group and our companies are equal opportunity employers. It is our practice not to discriminate against any employee or applicant based on any criteria, condition or basis protected by laws or regulations in the locations where we do business. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect. We believe that diversity, equity and inclusion enable us to better meet our mission and values while serving our clients across the globe. If you have a disability or handicap and would like us to accommodate you in any reasonable way, please inform your recruiter, or contact us, so that we can discuss the appropriate alternatives available.