The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is piloting its first-ever engineering apprenticeship program to help attract the next generation of water industry leaders.
The Rotational Water Services Engineer Program is a four-year apprenticeship program designed for individuals who would like to become a skilled and licensed professional engineer with Phoenix Water.
By completing the program and obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license in a relevant discipline (Civil, Environmental, Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical), apprentices will be promoted to a permanent Civil Engineer III position within the Water Services Department.
“We recognize that it’s our responsibility to not only provide reliable and safe water services but also to invest in future generations to secure a stronger, sustainable future,” said Water Services Director Troy Hayes. “We are inspired by the next generation’s enthusiasm for environmental issues and invite professionals to work on the programs and projects that make Phoenix Water a leader in sustainability.”
Securing future water resources, especially in the desert Southwest, will require innovative leaders to find sustainable solutions that expand and improve infrastructure to address growing challenges like drought and climate change.
Such challenges are being addressed with completed investments like the Drought Pipeline Project, which allows the utility to move water to North Phoenix in times of drought, and future projects, like Advanced Water Purification facilities that will one day convert recycled water into purified drinking water.
Additionally, standard water and wastewater infrastructure will be necessary in growing parts of the City.
“We are looking for talented individuals who are passionate about public service and who want to help build the infrastructure that’s necessary for future generations to thrive,” said Clayton Freed, a Civil Engineer III and Team Leader. “The challenges and opportunities they will work on here benefit our community’s access to safe, clean, reliable water.”
Rotational Water Services Engineer Apprenticeship Program Details
Year One:
- Apprentices will be assigned to water and wastewater facilities, learning treatment plant operations and engineering.
- Apprentices will shadow various water and wastewater groups and field units.
- Apprentices will gain a detailed understanding of the water and wastewater design standards by conducting plan reviews for a variety of pipeline projects.
Years Two and Three:
- Apprentices will receive four, 6-month assignments on different engineering teams, working on various projects and conducting research, studies, data analysis, plan reviews, and a variety of engineering and technical assignments.
- Apprentices will be enrolled in exam preparation courses and study groups to help prepare them to pass the PE Exam.
Year Four:
- Apprentices will focus on engineering project management training with the permanently assigned engineering team.
- Apprentices will start managing engineering projects, including studies, planning, design and construction for facilities or infrastructure.
No experience is required prior to starting the program, only an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
All required training is paid for and provided by the City of Phoenix while on-the-job and being employed full-time.
This program will expand the City of Phoenix’s Registered Apprenticeship Training Programs, which includes an Electrician Apprenticeship within Phoenix Water.
The deadline to apply for the Rotational Water Services Engineer Apprenticeship is Thursday, May 29, 2025. Visit phoenix.gov/jobs to learn more about the qualifications.
About City of Phoenix Water Services Department
The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit phoenix.gov/water.
Media Contacts:
Michael Gertzman
Sr. Public Information Officer
Phoenix Water Services Department
602-534-1209
Jimena Garrison
Public Information Officer
Phoenix Water Services Department
480-390-1933
