Position OverviewPractical Applications, Inc. is seeking an experienced and driven
Department Manager to lead our Industrial Field Services and Engineering Consulting team. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in a hands-on, client-focused environment and has the ability to combine technical depth with operational leadership.
This position includes oversight of projects involving
industrial water systems, including pure/ultrapure water, as well as
industrial wastewater and EPA pretreatment program compliance.
Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team Development- Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, field technicians, and project managers
- Build a strong, accountable, safety-first culture aligned with Practical Applications' values
- Recruit, develop, and retain top technical talent
- Provide coaching and career development for team members
Project & Field Operations- Oversee execution of industrial field service projects and consulting engagements
- Ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards
- Support teams in troubleshooting complex engineering challenges in real-world environments
- Provide oversight for projects involving:
- Industrial pure and ultrapure water systems (RO, DI, filtration, polishing systems)
- Industrial wastewater systems and treatment processes
- Balance field demands with consulting deliverables and resource availability
Client Engagement & Business Growth- Maintain and strengthen long-term client relationships
- Identify new opportunities within existing accounts and new markets
- Lead or support proposals, scopes of work, and technical presentations
- Represent Practical Applications as a trusted partner in:
- Water system reliability and performance
- Regulatory compliance and pretreatment program management
Department Management & Performance- Manage departmental budget, utilization, and profitability
- Track key performance metrics and drive continuous improvement
- Optimize processes to improve responsiveness and project execution
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and client requirements
Technical Leadership- Provide high-level technical oversight on complex projects
- Guide engineering and field teams on:
- Industrial pure water system design, operation, and troubleshooting
- EPA industrial pretreatment program requirements and implementation
- Regulatory compliance, permitting, and reporting
- Promote best practices in industrial maintenance, water treatment, and reliability engineering
- Support teams with real-time problem-solving expertise in the field
QualificationsRequired- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Environmental, or related field)
- 8+ years of experience in industrial field services, engineering consulting, or plant operations
- 3+ years of leadership or management experience
- Hands-on experience solving real-world industrial operational challenges
- Experience with industrial water systems and/or wastewater treatment
Preferred- Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification
- Direct experience with:
- Industrial pure or ultrapure water systems
- EPA industrial pretreatment programs and regulatory compliance
- Background in process systems, utilities, or environmental engineering
- Experience with root cause analysis, reliability engineering, or system optimization
- Proven success in business development and client relationship management
Key Skills- Practical, solutions-oriented mindset
- Strong leadership and team-building capabilities
- Excellent communication and client engagement skills
- Ability to translate regulatory requirements into operational practices
- Technical expertise in industrial water systems and compliance frameworks
- Financial and operational management skills
- Commitment to safety, quality, and environmental stewardship
What We Offer- Competitive salary with performance incentives
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Opportunity to lead a highly skilled and respected technical team
- A collaborative, hands-on environment focused on solving real-world challenges
- Career growth and leadership development opportunities
