Sanitary engineering improves public health by designing and constructing sanitation systems. Engineers consult with other professionals to determine the best methods for waste disposal and water purification. They create blueprints and prototypes, supervise construction, and stay up-to-date on new technologies. Entry-level jobs require minimal experience and a high school diploma, while senior engineers need a bachelor’s degree, licensing exam, and experience.
Sanitary engineering is a design and construction specialty that addresses issues related to public health. Industry professionals build new sanitation systems and renovate existing facilities to improve health and safety. By incorporating elements of mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and life sciences, workers are able to provide better water quality and waste removal for citizens. Most sanitary engineering projects are directed by government agencies, but private firms and consultancies also contribute.
Proper sanitation is essential to preserve the health of humans and wildlife. Without adequate systems to safely dispose of waste and purify water supplies, people are at serious risk of contracting deadly diseases. Sanitary engineers consult with chemists, physicists, and environmental scientists to determine the best ways to improve public systems. They research many different methods when designing a new system to dispose of hazardous waste or remove particulate matter from drinking water.
Like engineers in other specialties, sanitary engineering professionals sketch blueprints, create computer models, and develop prototypes before starting a new construction project. They perform computer simulations and small-scale physics experiments to test a system’s effectiveness. For example, an engineering team might want to improve a wastewater treatment plant by installing new centrifuges to separate large particles from the water. They would put a small centrifuge through a series of laboratory tests to confirm the method’s effectiveness before presenting the plans to the plant’s developers.
Once a project is approved, engineers often act as supervisors on construction sites. They supervise construction to make sure project details are being followed exactly. Once a structure is completed, engineers check the quality of workmanship, test the system, and determine if changes need to be made.
Sanitary engineering is an ever-changing industry and new technologies are developed every year. Professionals who choose careers in the specialty stay up-to-date on the latest innovations by reading magazines, attending seminars, and participating in continuing education courses. It is also important for engineers to be aware of current state and federal laws regarding the use of certain chemicals to ensure their facilities meet safety standards.
Individuals interested in sanitary engineering careers can inquire about the requirements by contacting municipal government agencies and consulting firms in their regions. Entry-level jobs such as journeymen and engineering assistants can usually be obtained with minimal experience and high school diplomas. A person who wants to become a senior engineer and lead projects typically must have at least a bachelor’s degree in an engineering specialty, pass a licensing exam, and gain several years of experience.
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