Chemical Engineering Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CycloKinetics, is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications.

We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

We are seeking to hire a mid-level Chemical Engineer to join our dynamic team. The Chemical Engineer will utilize chemical plant equipment and devise processes for separating and purifying intermediates and products, such as performance advantaged sustainable fuels by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.

Will apply chemical engineering principles to laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to advance R&D projects from concept through implementation.

The successful candidate must have hands-on experience with catalytic systems, process integration, scale up of chemical processes, reaction and separation systems, hydrocarbon, olefins, and organic convergent systems.

At this level, may instruct or lead junior level chemical engineers, providing guidance and support to ensure high performance and alignment with organizational goals.

• Responsible for supporting daily operational processes involving the handling, preparation, and management of various chemical substances using the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).


• Safely handle, measure, mix, and transport chemical substances in accordance with established procedures using appropriate PPE.


• Operate and maintain equipment used in chemical processing and testing.


• Support team members in the proper handling, preparations, and management of chemical substances using appropriate PPE.


• Perform detailed and/or routine engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests, and analysis.


• Contribute to the design, optimization, and implementation of measurement and control systems for our chemical processing facility using data derived from laboratory experimentation and pilot plant operations.


• Design and develop simple test fixtures and experimental setups.


• Perform small scale unit operation experiments.


• Conduct pilot-scale experiments to test materials, reactions, or process modifications.


• Evaluate chemical equipment and processes to identify ways to optimize performance or to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.


• Perform tests and monitor performance of processes throughout stages of production to determine degree of control over variables such as temperature, flow rate, concentration of reactants, catalyst loading, and pressure under the guidance of senior engineers.


• Determine the most effective arrangement of basic unit operations such as distillation, continuous flow reactors, and adsorption/desorption columns under general guidance.


• Contribute to processes to separate components of liquids or gases using controlled chemical processes.


• Conduct research to develop new and improved chemical manufacturing processes.


• Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.


• Prepare estimates of production costs and production progress reports for management.


• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior level staff.


• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, including notebooks, test results, and data, in accordance with company guidelines on documentation, storage, and control.


• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in chemical engineering, materials science, and analytical characterization techniques to improve process efficiency, innovation, and research outcomes.


• Support in the development of standard operating procedures and progress reports.


• Exhibit strong communication, organization, documentation, and computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Suite and related programs.


• Performs additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with at least three to seven years of direct work experience in an industrial setting applying chemical engineering concepts, practices, and procedures required. Applied knowledge obtained through an undergraduate education with emphasis in chemical engineering may be considered.


• Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with two to five years of direct work experience in an industrial setting applying chemical engineering concepts, practices, and procedures required. Applied knowledge obtained through an undergraduate education with emphasis in chemical engineering may be considered.


• Doctoral Degree in Chemical Engineering with zero to three years of post-doctoral training preferably in an industrial setting.


• A background in biorefinery, petroleum, or chemical industries is ideal for this role.


• Practical knowledge of chemical engineering principles, including mass and energy balances, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction engineering.


• Advanced knowledge of pressure systems and heated systems.


• Practical understanding of Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).


• Proficient with chemical handling and laboratory safety practices.


• Commitment to process safety with the ability to build, recognize, maintain, and promote safety standards to support workplace safety of our team.


• Preference given to incumbents that have prior applied laboratory, industry, manufacturing, or production experience.


• This position requires the use of a respirator in accordance with OSHA safety standards as part of the essential job functions. Candidates must be able to pass a respirator fit test, which includes being clean-shaven in areas where the respirator seals the face.


• Prior experience using hand and power tools is essential.


• Strong communication and documentation skills, with an ability to accurately record and report data.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.


• Proven ability to execute small projects independently.


• Prior experience successfully participating in work teams where personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and results were required is essential.


• Highly detail-oriented and organized, with a proactive, self-driven approach and demonstrated record of taking initiative to drive scientific and operation goals.


• Demonstrated proficiency in common computer tools and web-based applications is required.


• Prior experience successfully participating in work teams where personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and results were required is essential.

Frequent lifting and moving of items up to fifty (50) pounds, bending, reaching above shoulder level, climbing stairs, pulling, prolonged standing or sitting may be required. Must have safe work habits and perform all duties in accordance with company safety policies. Personal protective equipment is provided by the company, and its use is mandatory.

This position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah with work performed on-site. CycloKinetics is an At-Will, VEVRAA, Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, E-Verify, and Drug Free Workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background verification and drug screens.

CycloKinetics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

• 15 Days of PTO


• 12 Paid Holidays


• Medical Insurance


• Dental Insurance


• Vision Insurance


• Health Savings Account (HSA)


• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)


• 401(k) Savings Plan (including Roth options)


• Basic Life Insurance


• Dependent Life Insurance


• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance


• Short-Term Disability (STD)


• Long-Term Disability (LTD)


• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


• Paid Parental Leave


• ESOP


• Bonus Potential

CycloKinetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We are excited to work with talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. All employment decisions at CycloKinetics are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

We’re looking for detail-oriented team members who pride themselves on solving problems while bringing positive energy and strong communication skills to the table. If this describes you, come join our team today and contribute to the success of our organization!

Exempt