Job Description
Job Description
Be the face of a first-of-its-kind pilot facility.
We're developing sustainable fuel from CO₂ at a pioneering pilot-scale R&D site in Kona, Hawaii and we're hiring a Facilities Engineer to lead its daily operations. In this high-ownership role, you'll oversee operators, manage production campaigns, troubleshoot real-time issues, and serve as the primary on-site presence for a groundbreaking process.
You'll be responsible for day-to-day success, safety, and performance. You'll work closely with the VP of Engineering and Chief Engineer to scale up new technologies, commission and start up new equipment, and implement ongoing improvements across plant systems. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who thrives in hands-on environments and wants to shape the future of clean energy operations.
Key Responsibilities:
· Plant Operations: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the applied R&D unit, including planning of campaigns, personnel, and 3rd party maintenance support.
· Process Optimization: Identify and execute optimization opportunities across unit process systems to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
· Troubleshooting & Problem Solving: Identify and resolve process-related issues, including equipment malfunctions, inefficiencies, or deviations from specifications. Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions when needed.
· Project Support: Support process engineering projects, including process scale-up, equipment upgrades, and new technology integration.
· Safety & Compliance: Ensure processes comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, EPA). Conduct safety incident reports when needed.
· Data Analysis: Analyze plant data to monitor performance metrics, recommend process improvements, and support data-driven decision-making.
· Technical Support: Act as the primary on-site technical representative for vendors, partners, and internal teams Develop and update process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and technical reports. Oversee sample handling and coordinate with the quality lab to validate process outputs
· Commissioning & Startup: Support the commissioning and startup of new processes or equipment, ensuring smooth integration into plant operations.
· Training: Provide process, lab, and safety training and mentorship to plant personnel.
Qualifications:
· Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, chemistry, or related field.
Experience:
· 5-10 years of experience in process engineering within a chemical plant or similar industrial setting (e.g., petrochemical, oil & gas, or specialty chemicals).
· Experience with laboratory operations is required.
· Mechanical and/or electrical troubleshooting experience preferred
· Experience with quality systems (e.g., Six Sigma, QMS). Green/Black Belt preferred.
· Experience with safety systems (e.g., HAZOP, PHA). PSM experience preferred.
· Knowledge of chemical unit operations (e.g., distillation, reaction, heat transfer).
· Familiarity with process control systems (DCS, PLCs).
· Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
· Familiar with process simulation software is preferred (Aspen HYSYS, ProMax, Symmetry)
Self-Directing:
· Strong problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork skills. Excellent communication and project management abilities.
· Willing to relocate to Kona, Hawaii for a minimum of 2 years.
Working Conditions:
· Primarily on-site at a R&D chemical process with occasional travel for vendor meetings or project support.
· Required to work in industrial environments with exposure to chemicals, noise, and heavy equipment (PPE required).
· Overtime and on-call support during campaign operation.
What We Offer:
· Leadership over a technically unique and strategic pilot facility
· Direct involvement in breakthrough CO₂-to-fuel innovation
· Competitive salary with a comprehensive benefits package
· Unlimited PTO
· The opportunity to live and work in beautiful Kona, Hawaii
This is a full-time, on-site position. Relocation to Kona, Hawaii is required. Specific relocation/travel package is negotiable.
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