Water Network Engineer – Operations & Maintenance

NEOM is an accelerator of human progress and a vision of what a new future might look like. A region in northwest Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea, NEOM is being built from the ground up to include hyperconnected, cognitive cities, ports, next-generation infrastructure and industries, enterprise zones, research centers, sports and entertainment venues and tourist destinations.

As a destination, it will be a home for people who dream big and want to be part of building a new model for exceptional livability, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation.

As a workplace, it is a place for people who share our core values of care, curiosity, diversity, passion, respect, and becoming a catalyst for change.

Are you ready to help NEOM find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges? Are you prepared to create a lasting legacy that benefits generations to come? Then we want to hear from you!

ROLE OVERVIEW

To enhance water quality management within the Water Transmission, Storage & Distribution (WTS&D) Department. The Water Quality Engineer will lead initiatives related to water quality sampling, monitoring, testing, and compliance with NEOM Water Standards. This role involves collaboration with internal teams, external contractors, and stakeholders to ensure consistent, high-quality water supply and regulatory compliance.

The successful candidate will work closely with operations teams, conducting field assessments, developing quality control processes, and ensuring safety and environmental standards are met. They will also provide guidance to junior staff to support knowledge transfer and professional development.

REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

• In-depth knowledge of water quality standards, treatment processes, and regulatory requirements specific to the region or internationally.
• Proficiency in water quality sampling and testing methods, including chemical, microbial, and physical analysis.
• Proficiency in the use of both field and laboratory water quality test equipment.
• Experience with water quality monitoring tools, data collection systems, and relevant software.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental standards related to water quality operations.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for water quality monitoring and control.
• Experience in incident investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective action planning for water quality incidents.
• Skilled in data analysis and reporting, with the ability to interpret trends and recommend improvements based on findings.
• Ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, including contractors, consultants, and regulatory authorities.
• Knowledge of commissioning and handover processes for water assets, ensuring they meet operational quality standards.

ROLE COMPETENCIES & ACTIVITIES

Operations         

Water Quality Monitoring

• Conduct regular sampling and analysis of water across various points in the network to maintain quality standards.
• Compare sample analysis against online monitoring equipment
• Use water management software to monitor and manage quality parameters, ensuring data accuracy and adherence to regulatory standards.

Onsite Support and Supervision

• Supervise field teams engaged in water quality-related activities, including sampling, chemical treatments, and monitoring equipment installation.
• Oversee contractors involved in water network operations, ensuring their activities align with established quality protocols.

Incident Management

• Lead initial assessments of water quality incidents, coordinating containment actions and preventive measures.
• Document incident investigations, collaborate on resolution plans, and track follow-up actions to mitigate recurrence.

Monitor and Control Safety & Quality – Client Side

• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental protocols in all water quality operations, including water safety plans, conducting regular audits and addressing compliance gaps.
• Develop and update safety standards (together with the Water Supply team) related to water quality, including chemical handling, disinfection processes, and onsite procedures.
• Collaborate with the Water Supply team, focusing on quality risk assessments and emergency response procedures for contamination events.
• Ensure field teams (internal and external) are trained in emergency protocols(related to water quality incidents)  and conduct regular drills to reinforce safety practices.
• Maintain quality records of inspections, tests, and incident reports to provide a comprehensive quality history of the water network.
• Review and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for quality compliance, making necessary revisions to reflect current best practices
• Propose and implement process improvements based on data analysis, driving quality enhancements and operational efficiencies in water quality management.

Ability to Report and Analyse      

• Gather, analyze, and interpret water quality data to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.

• Conduct root cause analyses on quality incidents or deviations, documenting findings and suggesting corrective measures.

Project Delivery Co-ordination     

• Coordinate with Project Teams

• Work closely with project managers and contractors to integrate water quality considerations into the project lifecycle.
• Participate in project planning, ensuring that water quality requirements are met during design, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Ensure that contractors systems are aligned with Neom standards with regards to water quality
• Collaborate closely with internal commissioning teams, providing guidance to ensure assets meet NEOM water quality standards and are prepared for transition into operational delivery.
• Manage all exception items during the project closeout, ensuring that outstanding water quality issues are resolved before handover.
• Act as the liaison between the water quality team, contractors, and external consultants to ensure alignment on quality standards and timelines.

Testing & Commissioning

Testing Procedures

• Support testing of water quality parameters, including chemical, microbial, and physical assessments, to validate operational performance.
• Develop and implement testing protocols for new assets, ensuring they meet water quality specifications before going live.

Commissioning Activities

• Collaborate with commissioning teams to ensure all water quality assets are operating within standards before full deployment.
• Conduct final quality checks and verifications, compiling results and recommendations for adjustments or improvements.

Reporting and Documentation

• Document all testing and commissioning results, creating a formal record of water quality metrics for regulatory and operational purposes.

BACKGROUND, SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in the water quality management sector
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a water network operations or water quality-focused role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant Science discipline
• Master’s degree in relevant subject considered preferable