R&D Chemical Engineer

Position Overview As a key member of the R&D Technology Team, the R&D Chemical Engineer will play a central role in the development and optimization of chemical processes, with an emphasis on distillation and separation technologies. The role will focus on laboratory and pilot-scale experimentation, process modeling, and the translation of R&D results into scalable manufacturing processes. This position supports the company’s strategy to improve yield, efficiency, and technology capability. Targeted Outcomes Design and validate distillation-based processes to enhance product quality and plant throughput. Develop scalable unit operation models and experimental plans supporting yield and capacity improvements. Drive experimental and analytical work to support techno-economic analysis and project prioritization. Serve as an early-career technical expert in distillation and separation to support R&D and Process Engineering initiatives. Contribute to a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous technical growth within the R&D team. Key Responsibilities Plan, execute, and interpret laboratory and pilot distillation and separation experiments. Guide the work of laboratory and pilot technicians working within the technology team. Apply chemical engineering principles including vapor-liquid equilibria, mass transfer, and thermodynamics to process development work. Conduct process modeling using Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar tools to simulate and optimize distillation units. Collaborate across departments to transfer lab findings to plant-scale applications. Assist in developing design of experiments (DOE) plans and perform statistical analysis of results. Maintain thorough technical documentation and communicate findings through reports and presentations. Contribute to patent filings, technical reviews, and IP strategy as needed. Support environmental, safety, and health (ESH) compliance in all development activities. Required Experience B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering. 3–5 years of experience in a chemical manufacturing or R&D environment. Direct experience with distillation systems in laboratory, pilot, or commercial settings. Exposure to chemical process scale-up and technology transfer is highly valued. Experience with fluidized-bed reactors would be a plus. Required Skills Strong understanding of distillation principles and separation technologies. Demonstrated ability to design and execute structured experiments and analyze technical data. Proficient in applying basic chemical engineering fundamentals such as heat transfer, vapor-liquid equilibria, mass transfer, solids separation, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, and fluid hydraulics. Working knowledge of Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or other process simulation tools. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Proven ability to work both independently and in multidisciplinary teams. Preferred Skills Experience with techno-economic modeling or cost-benefit analysis. Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab). Exposure to other separation operations (e.g., crystallization, extraction). Knowledge of applicable regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA). Early involvement in intellectual property or technical publications. Lead and coordinate small to mid-scale R&D projects, ensuring alignment with technical and business objectives. Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives. At Ascend Performance Materials, we value transparency and fairness in our hiring process. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, citizenship, genetic information or other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

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