Senior Chemical / Process Engineer

CycloKinetics (CleanJoule)•Salt Lake City, UT

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Senior Chemical / Process Engineer to serve as a key technical leader for continuous process development and implementation. This role will focus heavily on distillation systems, hydrogenation processes, continuous flow operations, and translating process intent into real-world industrial systems. In this highly cross functional role, the individual will work closely with the R&D team, and internal engineering team along with vendors, and external partners to define process requirements and ensure successful execution of process systems from concept through commissioning and operation. This individual will serve as a technical authority for process behavior, operating strategy, process safety considerations, and continuous process optimization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field (required)
8+ years’ experience in continuous chemical processing environments
Experience in refinery, petrochemical, renewable fuels, SAF, specialty chemicals, or related industries
Strong experience with distillation systems and continuous‑flow process equipment
Proven ability to develop process design documentation (PFDs, P&IDs, heat & material balances)
Working knowledge of process controls and industrial automation concepts
Experience supporting plant commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and operational optimization
Excellent project management, organization, and problem‑solving skills
Strong communication, cross‑functional collaboration, and documentation skills; able to present data for strategic decisions
Demonstrated proficiency with common computer tools and web‑based applications
Ability to work effectively in fast‑paced development environments
Track record of teamwork with personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and delivering results
Highly detail‑oriented, proactive, self‑driven, and able to take initiative to achieve scientific and operational goals
Candidates with biorefinery, petroleum, or chemical industry backgrounds strongly encouraged to apply
Must be able to use a respirator per OSHA standards and pass respirator fit test (requires being clean‑shaven where respirator seals)

Nice To Haves

Aspen HYSYS / Aspen Plus proficiency a plus

Responsibilities

Lead process engineering activities for distillation columns and continuous‑flow processes, including hydrogenation
Develop heat and material balances and operational narratives for new equipment
Document designs in company standard PFDs and P&IDs
Review and provide feedback on R&D experiments assessing risk and maturity for process scale‑up
Collaborate with controls team on control narratives, operating philosophy, and startup/shutdown procedures
Support mechanical engineering with key inputs to design new equipment and processes
Assist with vendor evaluations as needed, working with consultants and EPC firms
Participate in HAZOPs, process safety reviews, and risk assessments
Support pilot plant activities, commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and operational optimization
Assist in scaling technologies from pilot to commercial deployment
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to development of engineering standards and best practices
Support daily operational processes involving handling, preparation, and management of chemical substances using appropriate PPE
Operate and maintain equipment used in chemical processing and testing
Collaborate with other teams to achieve department and company goals
Interact with project team members to develop and execute project objectives
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and detailed progress reports
Stay current with engineering advancements and apply new methods to enhance process efficiency
Maintain accurate and complete records (notebooks, test results, data) per company documentation and control guidelines
Participate in meetings and planning sessions, providing work updates or summaries as requested
Maintain satisfactory performance and behavior in accordance with company expectations
Exhibit strong organizational, documentation, communication, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office
Function effectively within a team environment
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership