Senior Process Engineer - Pyrometallurgy

Who we are:   

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you. 

What you will do:   

As a Senior Process Engineer on the Process Metallurgy team, you will focus on developing and scaling up pyrometallurgical processing steps for Electra’s clean iron process from the laboratory to our pilot, demonstration, and commercial plants.  
 

Responsibilities include: 

• Lead projects to study and scale-up pyrometallurgical processes, including designing experiments, selecting and sizing equipment, and operating equipment  
• Engage with external companies to oversee large-scale thermal processing trials, including providing feedback on equipment suitability and design of scale-up trials. This will include planning and managing trials, and evaluating the product, and establishing needed analysis.  
• Experience with mass and energy balance models for pyrometallurgical processes using process simulation software  
• Experience with mass and energy balance models for pyrometallurgical processes using process simulation software Applies core engineering principles while shaping scalable workflows and best practices for a transitioning startup environment. 
• Specify, commission, and troubleshoot new equipment  
• Collect and synthesize data; present results to guide engineering and business decisions  
• Maintain a safe working environment and lead safety assessments of new equipment and operations  
• Read, understand, and comply with all workplace health and safety policies, safe work practices, and company policies and procedures.  
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.  

What we need you to bring to the team (required):     

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mining/Metallurgical Engineering, or Chemistry, plus a minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience  
• OR a master's degree in one of the above fields plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience  
• OR bachelor's degree in one of the above fields, plus a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience   
• (Note: Internships, co-ops, and academic projects do not count toward the required experience.) 
• Hands-on experience scaling up processes from lab to pilot or production scale, including performing mass and energy balances, equipment selection, and addressing challenges in reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, solids handling, heat transfer, and gas flow 
• Expertise in pyrometallurgical processes, including experience with process scale-up, production readiness, and troubleshooting. 
• Proficient in using process simulation software (e.g., Aspen, COMSOL, or equivalent) to model systems and inform design and operational decisions 
• Experience managing external vendor relationships, including sourcing, equipment selection, and oversight of technical service providers 
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands and navigate shifting requirements 
• Ability to collaborate with engineering leadership and operations to define the role’s impact on scaling efforts, including pilot learnings and manufacturing goals. 
• Ability to work independently on complex engineering challenges, applying data analysis and experimental insights to support technology scale-up and decision-making. 
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and audience alignment 

What we want you to bring to the team (preferred):    

• Experience managing complex contract research and contract manufacturing efforts with outside providers  
• Experience with sampling and analysis of solid feeds and products  
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art direct-reduced iron (DRI) technologies   
• Experience with flammable and explosive gas safety regulations and best practices  

Compensation:    

• The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $100,000- $130,000 and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education.   

Benefits For You:   

• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, short-term disability, long-term disability, and basic life insurance plans  

• Reasonable use PTO  

• $1,800 in annual employer HSA contributions (health savings account)  

Benefits For Your Family:   

• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, and telemedicine plans  

• 12 weeks of paid parental leave  

Benefits For Your Future:   

• 401k with up to 5% matching contributions which vest 100% on day one   

• Eligibility for incentive stock options