The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado, is the nation's primary laboratory for research, development, and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Our mission is to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices, advance related science and engineering and transfer knowledge and innovations to address the nation’s energy and environmental goals.

Senior Process Engineer

Requisition #897BR

Job/Research Summary                                                                      

This position, part of the Biorefinery Analysis team within NREL's National Bioenergy Center, performs process design and economic analysis of biomass-based processes. The program scope includes research and engineering on biomass characterization as well as collection and conversion for government and private industry - a major Department of Energy (DOE) and presidential initiative.

Job Duties                                                                                           

Working under the supervision of senior analysts and researchers, this engineer will develop models for unit operations and use the models to predict the effect of scale-up and process improvements on performance targets. This engineer will also develop cost estimates for processes and perform economic analyses under supervision. This individual will document work in detailed technical memos and internal milestone reports. This individual will contribute to publications and presentations of key results in peer-reviewed journals and at regional, national, and international scientific meetings and conferences.

Required Education and Experience                                                   

Relevant Master's and 6 years experience or equivalent relevant education/experience.

Preferred Qualifications                                                                      

Ph. D. in chemical/bio engineering with extensive experience in a relevant applied R&D. Experience in an industrial environment of process modeling and development of modeling software tools applied to complex chemical/bio processing. Ability to technically converse with engineers and chemists performing biomass conversion using microbial physiology, fermentation, enzymatic hydrolysis systems, thermochemical conversion and catalytic cracking, and processes monitoring and control. Experience with scale-up to pilot or larger scales. Skillful at interfacing with industrial clients and stakeholders. Experience with annual project/budget planning exercises. Proven ability to meet deadlines on schedule and within budget. Interest in mentoring junior staff in key skill areas and helping to ensure efficient research progress through appropriate application of statistical experimental design and quality control principles. Demonstrated knowledge of software such as Access, AutoCAD, TEAM, SimaPro, AspenPlus, and Crystal Ball is a plus.

Pre-employment drug testing required.

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