Pilot Plant, Lead Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Company: Scientific Design LLC

Location: Little Ferry, NJ

Position Title: Pilot Plant, Lead Engineer

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Pilot Plant Engineer position is responsible for the technical operation and subject matter expert in catalyst testing primarily at the Little Ferry Pilot Plant (LFPP). This position also leads the pilot plant operations including a team of pilot plant operators. It is a key role in the core R&D team to support catalyst product development and commercialization, focusing on evaluating catalyst performance under various conditions at the pilot plant.

MAJOR ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Primarily responsible for leading LFPP operation, conducting catalyst testing at LFPP, ensuring uninterrupted operations, delivering accurate, consistent, reproducible, and reliable data
• Develop SOPs, schedule shift work, and supervise operators to ensure smooth pilot plant operations
• Collaborate with other technical experts and operational teams to perform troubleshooting & RCA, minimize downtime, and ensure data quality
• Coordinate with procurement for ordering and delivery of gases and other materials
• Lead annual turnaround, identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, and lead improvement implementations
• Coordinate with the maintenance team and outside services for repairs and continuous improvements
• Interface with cross-functional teams for planning catalyst supply (loading, unloading, and post-mortem), start-up & conditioning, feasibility of reaction conditions & changes
• Provide oral and written reports and presentations to stakeholders and management team
• Follow safety procedures, build, and maintain high safety standards within the team

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline is required; advanced degree (MS or PhD) is
• Minimum of 8-10 years of engineering experience in pilot plant operations and/or plant operations

Skills and experience

• Troubleshooting ability with pilot plant systems including safety, mechanical, analytical, electronics/automation, data acquisition and reporting
• Competence in applying chemical engineering principles to rational analysis, scientific correlations, and convincing interpretations of pilot plant testing results and operational issues
• Ability to engage and empower the LFPP testing team through setting high expectations & clear direction, drive & deliver performance, and lead with agility
• Ability to lead, coach, develop and mentor operators to solve complex operation problems, ensure uninterrupted operations, and deliver quality data
• Self-motivated to resolve challenges and overcome obstacles
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams
• Ability to organize efficiently, prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

At SD, we value our employees and offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. Our commitment to our team includes:

• Health & Wellness:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans with various coverage options.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to help manage healthcare costs.
• Wellness programs and resources.

• Financial Security:
• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• 401(k) retirement plan with Company Match.
• Life and insurance.

• Work-Life Balance:
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
• New Jersey State-mandated benefits: Temporary Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI).

• Professional Development:
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Access to online training platforms and industry conferences.
• Additional Perks:
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Onsite gym.

Salary Range (annually)

$95,000 - $140,000