Resource Recovery Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of sustainable development, the focus on resource recovery engineers has never been more critical.

As society progresses towards a more eco-conscious future, the demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently manage, recover, and conserve our resources continues to grow.

But what’s really expected from a resource recovery engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal job specification,
• Or simply curious about the nuances of resource recovery engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable resource recovery engineer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Resource Recovery Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Resource Recovery Engineers are responsible for designing and implementing systems and processes that recover and reuse waste materials.

They apply engineering principles to minimize waste and optimize the use of resources in a variety of industries.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Analyzing the waste streams of a given industry or process to identify opportunities for resource recovery
• Designing systems to collect, process, and reuse waste materials in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner
• Conducting feasibility studies to assess the viability of proposed resource recovery projects
• Developing and implementing strategies to minimize waste production at the source
• Collaborating with other engineers, scientists, and stakeholders to develop integrated waste management systems
• Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and standards
• Monitoring and evaluating the performance of resource recovery systems and making necessary adjustments or improvements
• Documenting all aspects of the design and operation of resource recovery systems for future reference and continuous improvement
• Communicating with clients, government agencies, and the public about resource recovery initiatives and their benefits

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Resource Recovery Engineer to manage our waste recovery efforts.

The Resource Recovery Engineer will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to optimize the recovery of valuable resources from waste materials.

The successful candidate will be well-versed in waste management processes, material recovery techniques, and environmental regulations.

They will also have strong problem-solving skills, project management experience, and a commitment to sustainability.

The role of the Resource Recovery Engineer is to enhance our organization’s environmental performance, contribute to sustainable development, and ensure compliance with waste management regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor waste recovery strategies
• Analyze waste streams to identify opportunities for resource recovery
• Design and optimize waste processing systems to maximize resource recovery
• Work closely with operations teams to implement waste recovery initiatives
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal waste management regulations
• Conduct environmental impact assessments for waste recovery projects
• Prepare technical reports and documentation
• Stay current on industry trends and advancements in waste recovery technology
• Collaborate with stakeholders on waste reduction and recovery initiatives

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Resource Recovery Engineer or similar role
• Knowledge of waste management processes and material recovery techniques
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience with project management and process improvement
• Understanding of environmental regulations related to waste management
• BSc degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Resource Recovery Engineer
• Work Environment: This role typically works in an office setting, but may require visits to waste processing facilities or project sites. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Sustainability or Environmental Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Resource Recovery Engineer Do?

Resource Recovery Engineers primarily work in waste management and recycling industries.

They are responsible for designing, developing, and implementing processes that allow maximum extraction and utilization of resources from waste materials.

They collaborate with environmental scientists, waste management professionals, and other engineers to develop resource recovery facilities and technologies.

These may include wastewater treatment plants, recycling facilities, or landfill gas collection systems.

Resource Recovery Engineers conduct tests and research to evaluate the efficiency of resource recovery systems.

They assess the environmental impact and sustainability of these processes, making necessary modifications to maximize resource recovery and minimize environmental harm.

They also work on creating innovative solutions to transform waste into usable energy or materials, contributing to the circular economy.

They are involved in feasibility studies, cost estimations, and planning for resource recovery projects.

In addition, Resource Recovery Engineers may also be tasked with troubleshooting and solving operational issues, maintaining system efficiency, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Their role plays a significant part in promoting sustainable practices and reducing the environmental impact of waste materials.

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A resource recovery engineer should possess a specific set of skills and qualifications to effectively manage waste, recover resources, and design systems, such as:

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of waste management, resource recovery, and recycling to design effective systems for waste reduction.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify challenges in waste management and develop innovative solutions.
• Excellent project management abilities to oversee the design and implementation of resource recovery systems and operations.
• Understanding of environmental regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance in all resource recovery processes.
• Technical skills to perform site inspections, evaluate system performance, and analyze waste composition.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams, communicate complex engineering concepts clearly, and liaise with stakeholders.
• Good analytical abilities to interpret data and use it in decision-making processes that influence the resource recovery strategy.
• Advanced skills in using computer software, such as CAD and GIS, for designing and modelling resource recovery systems.
• Experience in performing cost-benefit analysis and economic evaluation of resource recovery projects.

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Experience Requirements

Resource Recovery Engineers usually begin with a degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or a related field.

As students, they often gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs at waste management facilities or environmental consulting firms.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through part-time roles, internships or assistant roles in waste management or environmental consulting firms.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Environmental Engineer, Civil Engineer, or other related engineering roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Resource Recovery Engineer roles.

They may have experience in waste management systems, recycling processes, and environmental regulations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced experience in planning, designing, and optimizing resource recovery systems.

They may also have some leadership experience, managing a team of engineers and technicians, and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.

Some facilities or consulting firms may have more complex tasks and as such may require their Resource Recovery Engineer hires to have advanced relevant experience in areas such as advanced waste processing technologies or sustainable waste management practices.

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Resource Recovery Engineers generally need a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline.

This should include coursework in areas such as waste management, recycling technologies, and sustainable engineering.

This role requires a strong background in engineering principles and familiarity with specific software, such as AutoCAD, for design and analysis.

Knowledge in resource recovery methods, waste-to-energy technologies, and recycling processes is critical.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in waste management, environmental engineering, or a related field, especially for those who need to deal with complex waste management and resource recovery systems.

Most Resource Recovery Engineers are expected to be licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE), which involves passing two exams and gaining sufficient work experience.

The criteria for licensure varies by state.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the constant evolution of technology and environmental regulations.

Therefore, many Resource Recovery Engineers opt for additional certifications or courses in areas such as waste management, recycling technologies, or sustainability to stay updated.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification demonstrates the engineer’s commitment to their profession and their ability to handle complex resource recovery projects.

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Salary Expectations

A Resource Recovery Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $80,000 (USD) per year.

This wage may vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, educational background, location, and the employer’s industry.

 

Resource Recovery Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Resource Recovery Engineer need?

Resource Recovery Engineers need a strong understanding of waste management and recycling processes, as well as the ability to design and implement resource recovery systems.

They should have a solid background in engineering, with skills in project management, problem-solving, and analytical thinking.

They also need excellent communication skills to work with various stakeholders, including waste management personnel, local authorities, and environmental agencies.

 

Do Resource Recovery Engineers need a specific degree?

Yes, Resource Recovery Engineers typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Some positions may require a Master’s degree or further specialized education in waste management or resource recovery.

 

What should you look for in a Resource Recovery Engineer’s resume?

A Resource Recovery Engineer’s resume should demonstrate a strong background in engineering, with specific experience in waste management or recycling.

Look for evidence of project management experience, as well as any certifications related to waste management or environmental engineering.

Also, any experience with regulatory compliance related to waste management could be a significant advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Resource Recovery Engineer?

A good Resource Recovery Engineer is innovative, capable of designing and implementing effective and sustainable resource recovery systems.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to tackle the challenges associated with waste management and resource recovery.

Strong communication and collaboration skills are also important, as they often need to work with various stakeholders.

A commitment to environmental sustainability is also a crucial quality for this role.

 

Is it challenging to hire Resource Recovery Engineers?

Yes, hiring Resource Recovery Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

The candidate needs to have a strong background in engineering, specific knowledge of waste management and resource recovery, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

These requirements can limit the pool of qualified candidates.

Therefore, it’s important to offer competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the realities of being a Resource Recovery Engineer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about waste management.

It’s about engineering sustainable solutions, one resource at a time.

With our indispensable Resource Recovery Engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make strides in your career.

But why stop there?

Plunge further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every recycled resource is part of a larger sustainable picture.

Let’s engineer that future. Together.

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