Research Engineer, Pyrometallurgy
Oakland, CA
Engineering /
Full Time /
Hybrid
Company Overview
Founded in 2019, Brimstone developed a breakthrough process to decarbonize cement production, one of the leading drivers of climate change. Our team is now scaling up to refine our process further and to build our first production facilities. We’re assembling an all-star group of sharp, mission-driven, collaborative individuals who take pride in using their diverse skills to contribute to a better world.
If this sounds like you, join us in helping to solve the most urgent, important challenge facing the world today (and have a blast while doing it!).
Job Brief
The Research Engineer on the Pyrometallurgy team will be responsible for all aspects related to product and process development including chemical formulation, lab and pilot plant manufacturing, material characterization, product and process optimization and scale up. This position reports to the Senior Manager Engineering, Pyrometallurgy.
This role is based in Oakland, California and can be worked as an on-site/hybrid position.
Key Focus Areas of the role may include:
- Carry out high temperature material synthesis in lab and pilot plant equipment
- Develop and optimize formulations and synthesis conditions
- Perform material characterization tests
- Assess materials of construction, including for corrosive and hazardous liquids, gasses, and solids and for high-temperature (>600°C) systems
- Perform technical communications such as verbal presentations, Powerpoint slideshows, technical write-ups, and reports
- Troubleshoot equipment, improve process and product quality
- Plan and execute lab and pilot test campaigns in coordination with cross-functional teams
For this role, we’re looking for:
- Master's or PhD degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Inorganic Chemistry or equivalent
- 3+ years of strong experience in material development or metallurgical engineering, including post graduate or postdoctoral experience
- Experience with thermo-chemical conversion at high temperatures (mineral processing, metallurgical processing, roasting, calcining)
- Deep understanding of fundamentals of material transformation: reaction kinetics, thermodynamic, phase changes, heat transfer, mass transfer, fluid mechanics, mass and energy balances
- Experience with design, operation, troubleshooting and optimization of pyrometallurgical reactors such as kilns, retort furnaces, fluidized beds
- Experience with granular material handling, conveying, milling and mixing
- Proficiency in solid, liquid and gas characterization methods.
- Experience with high temperature reactions (>1000°C)
- Familiarity with process control and instrumentation, control narrative and P&ID development
- Ability to travel up to 10% of the time
Additional skills that are preferred but not required:
- Experience with pilot, demonstration or commercial plants
- Background in modeling and simulation of chemical processes
- Simulation software tools such as Aspen Plus or Metsim for heat and mass balance calculations
- Experience in contributing to or conducting HAZOP sessions
- Project management skills and related tools
- Experience with offgas cleanup and emission control
Compensation, Benefits, and Perks
- Salary range for this role is $130,000 - 160,000 per year
- Company equity
- 401k retirement plan with 3% company contribution
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
- Mental health benefits
- Generous paid time off policy
- 12-weeks of parental leave
- A fun, diverse, and talented team focused on making the biggest impact possible on climate change
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Our Commitment to Diversity
Brimstone is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. We seek to build a unique team of individuals and create an environment where all backgrounds and experiences are respected and appreciated. We credit our success to the values that we uphold, and to the different perspectives each team member brings every day. We would never intentionally discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal or state law.
We strive to provide an inclusive candidate experience. If there are any reasonable accommodations that you may need during the interview process, please let us know.
