Job Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Process Engineer to join our R&D team. In this role, you will help design, develop, and optimize our advanced plastic recycling process and support scale-up from pilot to commercial production. The ideal candidate is hands-on, data-driven, and passionate about sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Design, model, and simulate advanced plastic recycling processes (e.g., pyrolysis, gasification, and separations).
• Optimize and troubleshoot the recycling process to improve efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Analyze process data to identify bottlenecks and improvement opportunities; recommend and implement process control strategies.
• Lead feedstock characterization efforts by analyzing the composition and properties of incoming plastic waste streams to ensure process compatibility.
• Operate and maintain the pilot plant, including executing experimental runs, collecting samples, analyzing results, and troubleshooting equipment.
• Collaborate with the R&D team to scale processes from lab to pilot and commercial operations.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with safety and environmental requirements.
• Work with equipment vendors and engineering contractors to specify, procure, and test new process equipment.
• Independently design, model, and simulate advanced plastic recycling processes, including pyrolysis, gasification, and separation methods.
• Provide technical support to operations to help the plant meet safety, reliability, and production targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of process engineering experience (chemical, petrochemical, or recycling preferred).
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, including fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and reaction kinetics.
• Strong process simulation expertise (e.g., Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS): build and validate steady-state models, run sensitivity/optimization studies, and translate results into scale-up recommendations.
• Working knowledge of thermodynamics packages, reaction/separation modeling, and data reconciliation to improve model fidelity.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with advanced recycling technologies (e.g., pyrolysis, gasification, solvolysis).
• Hands-on experience with process control systems (DCS, PLC) and basic control strategy development.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving priorities.
• Passion for sustainability and the circular economy.

Location

• Based in the Research Triangle Park (RTP), NC area.

What We Offer

• A competitive salary and equity package.
• Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• The opportunity to work with a passionate and talented team on a mission-driven project.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in the heart of the Research Triangle Park.
• The chance to make a real and lasting impact on the future of our planet.

No recruiters or external agencies, please. 

• This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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