Process Development Engineer

Process Development Engineer

San Francisco, CA - In-person, full time

POSITION OVERVIEW:

We are looking for a Process Development Engineer to run our pilot facility and play a critical role in scaling up our core technology platform. If you identify as a “builder” or “fixer” and thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments, this role is for you. You will be responsible for commissioning, troubleshooting, and executing pilot-scale processes, as well as driving creative solutions to achieve technical objectives.

This is a hands-on role, requiring you to work closely with our technical team to design, operate, and improve processes, develop standard operating procedures, and ensure the seamless execution of customer pilot contracts. You will work on tight deadlines, analyze data, and report results that directly influence the commercialization of our technology.

We are seeking someone who is deeply committed to addressing climate change and believes that capitalism can drive meaningful, sustainable solutions. You will join a team driven by a mission to decarbonize materials and chemicals, tackling one of the most significant challenges of our time.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Commission, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain pilot plant equipment, including high-pressure systems.

• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure safe and effective operations while enabling knowledge transfer across teams.

• Design and execute experiments to optimize process parameters, improve performance, and achieve technical objectives.

• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and leadership teams to address operational challenges and align goals and timelines.

• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and engineering documentation for pilot and scaled operations.

• Use process simulation tools such as Aspen HYSYS to develop and optimize engineering designs, and perform mass and energy balances.

• Document experiments, results, and findings while establishing systems for data management and process standardization.

• Engage with vendors and external partners to evaluate and integrate new technologies or equipment into operations.

• Communicate key findings, challenges, and recommendations to leadership and other stakeholders.

• Contribute to safety systems, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and best practices.

• Travel to partner labs and pilot facilities as needed to run experiments and support scale-up efforts.

REQUIREMENTS:

Must have qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field with minimum of 5 years of experience operating high pressure equipment.

• Strong foundation in process engineering fundamentals, including heat and mass balances, hydraulics, PFDs, and P&IDs.

• Proven ability to troubleshoot, fix, and optimize equipment in a hands-on environment.

• Strong time management, highly autonomous, self-stewarding, and solutions-oriented

• Effective time management skills, collaboration skills, and high sense of urgency

• Appetite for a fast-paced environment

• Ability to travel to partner labs

Highly desired qualifications:

• Experience in startups or dynamic, high-growth environments.

• Experience with lignocellulosic biomass conversion or related bio-based processes.

• Proficiency in Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, or equivalent process simulation software.

• Familiarity with safety regulations, permitting processes, and environmental compliance.

• Exposure to sustainability frameworks or life-cycle assessments is also a plus.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive annual salary, commensurate with experience

• Generous vacation policy, including 15 days of PTO, paid holidays, and a company-wide holiday closure in December.

• 401(k) plan

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Short-term & long-term disability coverage

• In-office snacks & drinks

• Weekly team lunch

ABOUT HYFE:

Hyfé transforms plant waste into chemicals that help displace petroleum. Joining Hyfé is a chance to be part of something extraordinary – it’s not just a job. We are pioneering a tangible and profitable solution to decarbonize commodity chemicals. And right now might be the most exciting moment in the company’s history to join. We are assembling a team of some of the most talented and motivated individuals across the country. Driven by our core values of being fired up, fast, exceptional, and clear, our team is determined to deliver on our mission to transform how we make things for the better.

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Equal Employment Opportunity: Hyfé is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.