Process Development Engineer - Pyrolysis Test
About The Position
We are looking for a Process Development Engineer to join our Pyrolysis Test Engineering team. This role will report to the Director of Pyrolysis and will be responsible for scaling new chemical processes from laboratory and pilot-scale testing to commercial operation, ensuring efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The engineer will collaborate with other teams to investigate scale-up challenges, evaluate process performance, improve product yields, and support the development of safe and reliable operating practices. This position is crucial in translating experimental results into processes deployable at a commercial scale. The ideal candidate will have experience in pilot plant operations and process scale-up, with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. This role is based onsite in Fort Lupton, Colorado.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in process development, including at least 2 years working with pilot-scale test systems.
- A strong understanding of heat transfer, mass and energy balances, process controls, and process safety principles.
- Hands-on experience with pilot plant operations, process instrumentation (temperature, pressure, flow, and level sensors), troubleshooting, and rapid prototyping.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- The ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and balance cost, timeline, and impact when making decisions.
- Excitement for scaling hardware and process technologies that can have a meaningful impact on climate change.
Nice To Haves
- An M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience working with bio-oil, biochar, syngas, or other advanced thermochemical processes.
- Familiarity with industrial-scale process systems, equipment, and operations.
Responsibilities
- Test and iterate on next-generation Charm pyrolyzers to develop biomass conversion processes and produce bio-oil and biochar.
- Design experiments, conduct pilot plant trials, and troubleshoot process performance and scale-up challenges.
- Analyze process data using material and energy balances, and communicate findings through technical reports and presentations.
- Develop process engineering documentation, including Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and Process Control Narratives (PCNs).
- Participate in process safety reviews, including Failure Mode and Effects Analyses (FMEAs) and Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies, before system testing and implementation of process improvements.
- Support our 24/7 operations through a rotating after-hours coverage schedule, totaling approximately 2-3 weeks per year.
Benefits
- Equity ownership through stock options
- 100% employee healthcare premiums covered
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with multiple plan options
- Employer-funded HSA contributions for eligible HDHP plans
- Traditional and Roth 401(k) with a 50% match on contributions up to 6%
- Paid leave, including parental and medical leave
- PPE and workwear allowances
- Annual professional development stipend
- Employee recognition programs that celebrate impactful work and team contributions
- Opportunities for internal growth, career development, and transition into climate from a range of industries and backgrounds
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
