UPW Process Engineer

UPW Process Engineer Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (PID) and relevant technical design documents.
• Conduct mass balance calculations and other related process engineering computations.
• Develop and compile technical specifications for UPW (Ultra-Pure Water) systems.
• Collaborate with internal colleagues to review and verify design information for accuracy.
• Communicate effectively with clients and suppliers to ensure engineering work aligns with requirements and standards.
• Identify potential engineering risks, conduct risk assessments, and propose practical, effective solutions.
• Provide on-site installation support and conduct site surveys in accordance with design requirements.
• Foster teamwork, support colleagues, and contribute to a collaborative work environment.
• Fulfill other related duties assigned by the supervisor, as required.

DETAILED REQUIREMENTS

1. Educational Qualifications

• Degree: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field is the minimum requirement; a master’s degree is highly preferred.
• Discipline: Priority will be given to candidates with degrees in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related fields. Chemical Engineering provides a solid foundation in process design, mass/energy balances, and separation processes—all critical for UPW systems. Environmental Engineering offers expertise in water treatment, pollution control, and environmental regulations relevant to UPW. Degrees in Materials Science Engineering will also be considered, as UPW is widely used in semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing where material purity is paramount.

2. Language Requirements

• English: Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is essential. Most international literature, equipment manuals, and communications with global suppliers/partners in the UPW field are conducted in English. The role requires drafting detailed technical reports, participating in international UPW technology conferences/seminars, and collaborating with multinational teams (if applicable).

3. Specific Knowledge

• UPW System Components: In-depth understanding of UPW system components, including reverse osmosis (RO) units, ultrafiltration (UF) membranes, ion exchange resins, ultraviolet (UV) sterilizers, and degasifiers. Must grasp the function, design principles, and common troubleshooting methods of each component—for example, optimizing RO membrane performance by adjusting operating parameters (pressure, flow rate, temperature).
• Water Chemistry: Solid knowledge of water chemistry, including pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and common water contaminants. Ability to analyze water quality data and select appropriate treatment processes based on source water characteristics and end-use purity requirements (e.g., removing heavy metals or organic compounds via chemical precipitation or activated carbon adsorption).
• Process Control and Automation: Familiarity with process control systems used in UPW plants, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. Capability to program and maintain these systems to ensure stable, efficient UPW operation, and implement real-time automated control strategies (e.g., feedback control based on water quality sensors).
• Industry Standards and Regulations: Awareness of relevant industry standards and regulations, including ASTM standards for water purity and local/international environmental regulations for water treatment and discharge. Must ensure UPW process design and operation comply with all applicable standards to avoid legal risks and guarantee treated water quality.

4. Years of Experience

• Minimum Experience: 3–5 years of relevant work experience, preferably in the design, operation, or maintenance of UPW systems or other water treatment processes. New graduates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant internships will be considered, provided they demonstrate quick learning ability and a solid understanding of UPW process concepts during the recruitment process.
• Preferred Experience: 5–8 years of relevant experience is highly preferred. Candidates with this level of experience typically have comprehensive knowledge of UPW systems, having worked on projects ranging from small-scale pilot plants to large-scale industrial UPW installations. Preferred candidates may have experience leading teams, managing UPW system upgrade/expansion projects, and understanding long-term operational challenges and solutions in the field.

5. Other Skills

• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and resolve complex UPW process operational issues (e.g., sudden water quality drops, unexpected energy consumption increases, equipment failures). Proficiency in using analytical tools (e.g., root cause analysis) to identify underlying problems and develop effective solutions.
• Project Management Skills: Beneficial for experienced candidates. Ability to manage UPW system installation, commissioning, and optimization projects—including creating project plans, coordinating with cross-functional departments (engineering, procurement, operations), and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Teamwork and Communication Skills: Essential for collaborating with cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, and process engineers, technicians, operators). Ability to clearly convey technical information to non-technical staff and work collectively to maintain a reliable, efficient UPW system.