Junior Pipeline & Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary

Sonoran Sales Company is seeking an entry-to-junior level Junior Pipeline & Manufacturing Engineer to support the engineering, design, fabrication detailing, and technical execution of large-diameter fabricated steel water pipe and fittings.

Working under the direct supervision and mentorship of David G. Tantalean, P.E., Principal Engineer, this position will serve as a technical bridge between engineering design and practical shop-floor manufacturing.

The ideal candidate has strong engineering fundamentals, excellent attention to detail, an interest in heavy infrastructure and manufacturing, and a desire to develop expertise in large-diameter steel water transmission systems.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking hands-on technical experience and professional development under the guidance of an experienced Professional Engineer.

Primary Responsibilities

Engineering Analysis & Design Support

• Perform preliminary engineering calculations under P.E. supervision for pipe wall thickness, internal design pressure, external loading, deflection, thrust restraint, and related design considerations.
• Assist with the engineering and evaluation of large-diameter steel pipe, fittings, elbows, reducers, tees, manifolds, flanges, joints, and other fabricated components.
• Review project plans, specifications, municipal or water district requirements, and contract documents — including the scope of work (SOW) and any exceptions taken — to help confirm what falls within our scope of supply.
• Assist in applying applicable AWWA, ASTM, and ASME standards, and project-specific requirements.
• Identify potential design conflicts, dimensional issues, or constructability concerns and bring them to the Principal Engineer for review.
• Support the development of practical engineering solutions for fabrication and field installation.

Drafting, Detailing & Fabrication Support

• Work with drafting and detailing personnel to translate engineering and contract drawings into accurate, shop-ready fabrication (spool) drawings.
• Review dimensions, materials, fittings, tolerances, and fabrication details for accuracy.
• Assist in preparing and reviewing layout drawings, pipe laying schedules, bills of material (BOM), and other fabrication documentation.
• Coordinate with the fabrication team regarding dimensions, fit-up, materials, and welding details.
• Assist with technical questions from shop supervisors, welders, and production personnel.
• Develop an understanding of Sonoran's manufacturing processes and incorporate practical fabrication considerations into engineering work.

Project Documentation & Coordination

• Assist with preparation of the engineering submittal package — design calculations, layout and spool drawings, bill of materials, QC submittal, welding procedures, and welder certifications — and help maintain the project submittal log.
• Support the internal completeness check before a package is transmitted, helping confirm the BOM matches the spool drawings and documentation is in order.
• Draft Requests for Information (RFIs) for review by the Principal Engineer when project documents contain conflicts, omissions, or unclear requirements.
• Maintain engineering project files, drawing revisions, calculation records, submittals, and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with Project Managers to understand project requirements, schedules, technical constraints, and material needs.
• Participate in project meetings and communicate technical information to Engineering, Project Management, Production, Quality, and Field Operations.

Quality & Field Support

• Assist with shop quality reviews to verify fabricated components conform to approved drawings and project requirements.
• Support review of material certifications, Material Test Reports (MTRs), coatings, linings, and other project documentation.
• Assist in resolving dimensional, fit-up, or constructability questions identified during fabrication or installation.
• Participate in field or shop inspections as needed under the direction of the Principal Engineer.
• Document technical issues and proposed solutions for engineering review and approval.