Thermochemical / Chemical Engineer – Biomass
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (Denver, Colorado)

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Thermochemical / Chemical Engineer –

Biomass to Syngas & Mixed Alcohols

Position Posting #: 98BR

www.nrel.gov/employment

Summary

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado is the nation’s primary laboratory for research, development and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.  NREL's National Bioenergy Center (NBC) has an opening for a full time (40 hours per week) Thermochemical Process Engineer.

Duties

Conduct research in support of thermochemical conversion of biomass to fuels and chemicals. Provide strong technical leadership in the design, installation, and improvement of the performance of various chemical, mechanical and reactor systems being used or developed for thermochemical processing of biomass to fuels, with major emphasis on reaction systems for producing, cleaning up and catalytically converting synthesis gas (syngas) to mixed alcohols and other liquid fuels. Develop, program, test, validate, apply, and optimize analytical methods and control algorithms to describe, monitor, control, and improve equipment or process performance. Apply automation hardware/software/programming tools and experimental design techniques to efficiently evaluate the performance of candidate processes at the bench, minipilot, or pilot scales. Lead and participate in multi-disciplinary project teams of researchers with diverse backgrounds (chemists, engineers, and technicians) who are investigating and integrating a variety of prospective biomass conversion unit operations including gasification, pyrolysis, gas cleaning, gas conditioning, and catalytic product synthesis. Document work in detailed technical memos and internal milestone reports. Publish and present key findings in peer-reviewed journals and at regional, national, and international scientific meetings. Maintain exemplary attention to environmental safety and health issues.

Minimum Requirements  (We will consider various levels of candidates for this role).

Bachelors + 3 years experience or Master's degree related to chemical/thermochemical process development (or equivalent education/experience), plus a minimum of six (6) years relevant experience .  Proven experience in developing, installing and improving mechanical/reactor experimental systems, including data acquisition and control aspects. Proficient knowledge of automation and control instrumentation and programming. Significant in depth experience with process research and development, statistical experimental design, data analysis and project management. Ability to work well under limited supervision, either independently or on a team. Demonstrated excellence in applying knowledge and know-how and modern software and hardware tools to solve practical problems. Required attributes include: outstanding verbal and written communication skills, very strong interpersonal communication and conflict resolution skills, and the ability to be creative, innovative, and adaptable to changing tasks and work flow situations.

Preferred

An advanced degree (MS or PhD) in chemical engineering or a closely related field is preferred.  Five (5) or more years of experience in an applied chemical process R&D environment. Extensive relevant experience designing, installing, improving, and using complex data acquisition and control systems for process R&D. Post graduate training and/or  experience in engineering design, control system logic, machine control programming and operator interface design. Proficient with CAD software and Windows operating systems. Broad knowledge of reactor design, fluid/slurry mixing, and rheology. Strong theoretical knowledge of thermochemical (gasification/pyrolysis) systems and their mechanistic modeling. Experience with process scale up from bench to pilot or larger scales. Well versed in project management and project/budget planning exercises. Proven ability to meet deadlines on schedule and within budget. Interest in and ability to mentor junior personnel in key skill areas and to help ensure efficient research progress through appropriate application of statistical experimental design and quality control principles.

Submit Your Resume

For more information, contact Marlo Hughen, Sr. Recruiter, Renewable Fuels at  Marlo_Hughen@NREL.gov

or visit our website:

www.nrel.gov/employment/

NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a drug-free workplace.