Ultrafiltration and Reverse Osmosis Pilot Systems

As a Junior Project Engineer at what was then a small start up (I was employee #4), my role began with supporting the design of the UF system under the guidance of senior engineers, where I gained hands-on experience in the conceptualization and drafting of pilot-scale water treatment setups. I was immediately thrown into the deep end when I was tasked with building the UF pilot system. The majority of the design had already been completed, but I worked solo to source tens of thousands of dollars worth of components, assemble the system, create P&IDs and electrical diagrams, and complete the necessary electrical wiring and instrumentation. By the time I worked on the RO pilot system, I was trusted to independently manage the project, applying the lessons learned from the UF system to improve efficiency and functionality. Both systems were rigorously tested to ensure reliability and optimize performance, with the data collected informing recommendations for full-scale implementation.

In the UF system project, I played a supporting role in design but took full responsibility for the physical construction and integration of the system. In addition, I travelled with this system to different clients around the United States, overseeing the operation of it and collecting data. For the RO system, I operated with significantly more autonomy, leading the project’s execution while still consulting with senior engineers when needed. Through these experiences, I developed a deeper understanding of water treatment technologies, strengthened my skills in hands-on engineering tasks like electrical work and system assembly, and gained confidence in independently managing complex projects.