Engineers at Environmental Utilities are problem-solvers, project managers, and innovators. They tackle big challenges to keep essential services running smoothly, ensuring reliable water, wastewater, and waste services for the community. They make the complicated look easy, turning big ideas into everyday conveniences.
Jason Marks, Engineering Manager, knew early on that he wanted to pursue engineering. "I was drawn to engineering because of my love for math, science, and problem-solving—the perfect formula for an engineer," he said proudly.
Evolving areas of responsibility
No two days are the same for an engineer working in trash and recycling (yes, figuring out where all that garbage actually goes after you wheel it to the curb), wastewater collection and treatment (making sure the water from your sink or toilet gets cleaned), or ensuring there's enough water to support homes and businesses (because showers, coffee, and lawn sprinklers don't just happen by magic).
These are the mission-critical systems that most people never think about until they stop working.
"You go to the restroom, flush the toilet, and that's all you think. Nobody thinks about what happens after you flush the toilet, 'Where does this go?', said Preet Chaggar, Senior Engineer. Being in this industry for 16 years, I've learned that there are so many aspects and so many people play a role in just one thing."
From planning and problem-solving to hands-on operations, engineers are behind the scenes every day, making sure these essential systems function smoothly.
On any given day, our engineers might be:
- Reviewing development plans for a new neighborhood or shopping center, ensuring garbage collection areas are well-placed or conducting water assessment to calculate the water needs for that development.
- Overseeing a multimillion-dollar treatment plant expansion to increase capacity and keep up with growing demand.
- Conducting site visits to inspect projects that help manage groundwater—either storing it for future use or ensuring there's enough available during dry conditions.
- Troubleshooting unexpected challenges, like figuring out how to reroute wastewater during a major infrastructure upgrade or keeping a facility running smoothly when issues arise.
These engineers oversee infrastructure projects, maintain critical systems, and ensure services run efficiently to support a thriving community. Many of them live in the communities they serve, bringing extra dedication and pride to their work. It's a job that keeps our communities moving forward, one engineering challenge at a time.
“When people think of engineers, they often picture someone hiding behind their computer all day,” said Rana Moore, Associate Engineer. “In reality, we’re constantly collaborating with professionals in a variety of roles across all City departments – and beyond! Being part of such a dynamic, team-oriented environment is incredibly rewarding, especially when working alongside others who share the same passion—making the City of Roseville the best it can be!”
Many of our engineers love what they do because their work directly impacts the community they serve. Something is rewarding about using engineering to solve problems, improve lives for thousands of people, and help create the quality of life we all enjoy.
"I love being an engineer for Roseville because of the immediate impact our decisions have on the residents we serve," said Mario Guadamuz, Senior Engineer. "My technical training helps me understand the science behind our systems, while my civil training allows me to grasp the human effort needed to make them work."
Turning blueprints into reality
Engineers bring concepts to life, keeping the city's infrastructure running smoothly and evolving with demand. Through data management and strategic planning, they maintain efficient, forward-thinking systems. Additionally, Roseville is home to a talented team of engineers, including many accomplished women shaping the city's utilities:
- Since 2020, Rana Moore has led major projects, including analyzing wastewater treatment capacity and project managing the refresh of our Utility Exploration Center (link).
- Tracie Mueller spearheaded a large expansion project at one of two wastewater treatment plants, including the Energy Recovery Project, converting digester gas into renewable fuel for Roseville's garbage fleet and onsite energy (link to a story?).
- Inderpreet Chaggar, who joined in 2023, is working on a project to bring new life into 20-year-old tanks that hold several million gallons of water for our recycled water program.
Engineering isn't just a job—it's a way of seeing the world. Many engineers' passion for infrastructure goes far beyond the workplace.
"My husband and I are both engineers in the water field, and we love pointing out treatment plants, tanks, and infrastructure to our family while on drives," said Tracie Mueller, Wastewater Utility Manager. "Even when traveling abroad, we always think about how other countries manage their water and wastewater utilities!"
Our engineers don't just work behind the scenes—they shape how our community functions daily. Their expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills is part of why Roseville remains a great place to live, work, and grow. Whether managing water systems, improving waste services, or keeping things flowing underground, their impact is everywhere—even if you don't always see it.