Role Overview for VP Engineering – PFAS Treatment Technologies with a Water Technology Company – Orlando, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering water technology company at the forefront of environmental remediation. We are seeking a visionary and highly accomplished Vice President of Engineering to lead their PFAS Treatment Technologies division in Orlando, FL. This is a pivotal executive leadership role for an individual passionate about solving one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, and execution of all engineering activities related to the company’s innovative solutions for treating water contaminated with Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
As the VP of Engineering, you will command a multidisciplinary team of brilliant engineers and scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and urgency. You will be the technical heart of the organization, driving the entire product lifecycle from conceptualization and research through design, validation, manufacturing, and commercialization. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to deliver effective, scalable, and economically viable technologies to municipalities, industrial clients, and government agencies worldwide.
This role requires a unique blend of deep technical expertise in water treatment processes, proven executive leadership, and a strong business acumen. You will not only guide the technical roadmap but also collaborate closely with the executive team to shape business strategy, secure intellectual property, and position the company as the undisputed leader in the PFAS treatment market. If you are a transformative leader with a track record of bringing complex environmental technologies to market and are driven by a mission to create a healthier planet, we invite you to apply for this career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP Engineering – PFAS Treatment Technologies with a Water Technology Company – Orlando, FL
The VP of Engineering will have a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing strategic leadership, team management, and hands-on technical guidance. Success in this role will be measured by the successful development and launch of market-leading products, the growth and mentorship of the engineering team, and the overall technical excellence of the organization.
Strategic Technical Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive technical and R&D roadmap that aligns with the company’s strategic goals and long-term vision. Identify emerging technologies, industry trends, and competitive threats to ensure the company maintains its innovative edge.
Product Development & Commercialization
Oversee the end-to-end product development lifecycle for all PFAS treatment systems. This includes managing conceptual design, process modeling, prototype development, pilot testing, system validation, and transfer to manufacturing. Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Team Building and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and expand a world-class engineering organization. Attract, retain, and develop top talent in chemical, environmental, mechanical, and process engineering. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture that encourages creativity and problem-solving.
Intellectual Property Management
Drive the company’s IP strategy by identifying patentable inventions, overseeing the patent application process, and protecting the company’s proprietary technologies.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance
Ensure all products and engineering processes comply with relevant industry standards and environmental regulations (e.g., EPA, NSF). Implement and maintain rigorous quality control and assurance protocols throughout the development and manufacturing process.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the engineering department’s annual budget, including capital expenditures, R&D investments, and operational costs. Allocate resources effectively to prioritize projects and achieve strategic objectives.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team. Work seamlessly with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Finance to ensure successful product launches, effective market positioning, and profitable growth. Provide technical expertise to support sales proposals, client presentations, and marketing collateral.
External Engagement
Represent the company as a technical authority at industry conferences, regulatory hearings, and client meetings. Build and maintain relationships with key academic researchers, technology partners, and industry influencers.
Requirements for the VP Engineering – PFAS Treatment Technologies with a Water Technology Company – Orlando, FL
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned engineering leader with deep domain expertise in water treatment and a proven history of commercializing complex technologies. We are looking for an individual who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on, results-oriented approach.
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related scientific field is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Director, Senior Director, or VP of Engineering) within the water technology, environmental services, or a related industrial sector.
Domain Expertise
Demonstrable, in-depth knowledge of water treatment technologies is essential. Specific experience with contaminant removal processes such as ion exchange, granular activated carbon (GAC), reverse osmosis (RO), advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), or novel adsorbent media is strongly required. Direct experience in developing and commercializing solutions for PFAS, PFOA, PFOS, or other persistent organic pollutants is highly preferred.
Leadership and Management Skills
Proven ability to build, lead, and inspire high-performing, multidisciplinary engineering teams. Experience managing departmental budgets, P&L responsibilities, and strategic planning at an executive level.
Commercialization Track Record
A successful track record of taking complex engineered products from concept through to successful market launch and scale-up. Experience with stage-gate product development processes and project management methodologies is critical.
Regulatory Knowledge
Familiarity with the U.S. environmental regulatory landscape, particularly EPA guidelines and standards related to drinking water and wastewater treatment.
Communication Skills
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences, including investors, board members, customers, and regulators.
Location
The ability to work on-site at the company’s primary engineering and research facility in Orlando, FL is required. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier executive talent. They are committed to investing in their employees’ personal and professional growth.
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Equity Participation
Meaningful equity/stock options package, providing a stake in the company’s long-term success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, including conferences, certifications, and executive coaching.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package for qualified candidates moving to the Orlando area.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to work on a mission-driven team dedicated to solving a critical global environmental problem.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary engineering leader with the experience and passion to drive the next generation of PFAS treatment technologies, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for technology and industrial sectors. Learn more about our expertise in the Water & Wastewater Treatment Executive Search and apply today to join a company making a real-world difference.
