Digital Water Engineer I

Digital Water Engineer I

Location Options: Crystal Lake, Chicago, Naperville, Bannockburn, or Mokena, IL

At Baxter & Woodman, professionals of all backgrounds find more than a job—they build long-term, rewarding careers with a recognized leader in engineering, technology, and innovation. Our collaborative culture and commitment to excellence are reflected in our recognition as a 2025 Zweig Best Firm to Work For.

About the Role – Your Impact

Baxter & Woodman has an exciting opportunity for a Digital Water Engineer I within our Water Department. This role merges traditional environmental engineering with cutting-edge digital technologies, including data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart infrastructure solutions.

The Digital Water Engineer I will support the planning, design, and optimization of water & wastewater systems while assisting in the development and application of digital tools and AI-driven solutions. This position offers a unique opportunity to build both core engineering expertise and digital/AI capabilities, supporting innovation across the firm.

What Your Day-to-Day Will Look Like

• Support the design of water & wastewater infrastructure, including treatment plants, pipelines, and pumping stations.
• Assist with conceptual and preliminary design development using Bluebeam, AutoCAD, and Revit while incorporating digital workflows.
• Prepare and contribute to master planning reports, integrating engineering analysis with data-driven insights.
• Review and evaluate infrastructure improvements with consideration of sustainability, energy efficiency, and system optimization.

Digital & AI Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development and implementation of AI and machine learning models, including computer vision and data-driven applications.
• Utilize machine learning libraries and frameworks to support the development of tools for engineering analysis and decision-making.
• Process and analyze data to train, validate, and evaluate AI models for internal engineering applications.
• Support development of digital tools such as dashboards, visualization platforms, and system models to improve operational insights.
• Contribute to digital engineering initiatives, including asset modeling, data integration, and smart system development.
• Document AI models, workflows, and digital tools for internal use and knowledge sharing.
• Explore and support implementation of AI-enabled processes to enhance quality, efficiency, and innovation across projects.
• Collaborate with the Innovation & Technology Team to develop and test emerging digital solutions.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Participate in client and regulatory agency meetings, supporting both engineering and digital deliverables.
• Communicate and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, integrating engineering, data, and technology perspectives.
• Work collaboratively with peers and leadership to advance digital practices within the firm.

What You Will Learn

• Application of AI and machine learning in water and wastewater engineering.
• Use of digital delivery tools, including BIM, data platforms, and visualization systems.
• Integration of engineering design with analytics, modeling, and smart infrastructure technologies.
• Fundamentals of digital twins, asset management, and system optimization.
• Exposure to project management, innovation strategy, and client engagement.

Education / Certification Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Computer Engineering, or related field (or pursuing completion).

Must-Haves – What You Will Bring

• Foundational knowledge or interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, or data analytics.
• Experience or familiarity with programming in Python.
• Familiarity with engineering and design tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam; exposure to AI/ML frameworks is a plus.
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and contribute to broader project goals.
• Strong technical writing, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Prior AI-related coursework or project experience is a plus.

The pay range for this role is $74,000-$90,000. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, and certifications.

At our organization, we prioritize the holistic well-being of our employees through a comprehensive range of benefits. This commitment is evident in our healthcare offerings, including medical, dental, and vision plans, alongside an Employee Assistance Program and dedicated benefit advisors for personalized support. Financial well-being is enhanced through our financial planning program, life and disability insurance, tax savings plans, and coverage for accidents, and cancer. Balancing work and life, we provide generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home on half Fridays and varied schedules. Additionally, we lead the industry by offering 401k plans, supported by expert financial advisors, and an Employee Stock Ownership program, ensuring our employees are not just part of a workplace but a thriving, supportive community dedicated to their well-being, financial security, and happiness.

Baxter & Woodman is an equal opportunity - Vet/Disability employer