Senior Process Engineer

Modern Hydrogen is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to join our New Product Development team based in Woodinville, WA. The ideal candidate is mission-driven and excited to contribute to a fast-paced, cleantech company focused on decarbonizing the energy system. This role requires a demonstrated commitment to excellence, a mindset of constant improvement, a strong sense of ownership, and the ability to fail well and adapt quickly. The successful candidate values time, works with urgency, embraces effective teamwork, and thrives in a culture that prioritizes safety.

Position Summary:

This role is responsible for the chemical process design of novel pyrolysis hydrogen generation systems. The position will be involved in the full design-to-commissioned lifecycle, first performing trade studies in initial design stages, then sizing and selecting key unit operations, and finally helping lead commissioning/startup activities. As a part of the New Product Development team, this role also has a critical responsibility in working with the commercialization team, designing product requirements, and verifying operation meets requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

- Lead the development, design, and optimization of novel methane pyrolysis processes for hydrogen and carbon production, utilizing first principle calculations and chemical process simulation software.

- Lead development of P&ID, PFD, heat & mass balance, piping/equipment sizing and rating, relief systems, and general system trade studies. Translate lab- and pilot-scale data to commercial scale process designs.

- Implement and practice safe working practices. Ensure that EHS considerations are a priority in any new technology, product, or process implementation.

- Perform process modeling and simulation using software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar, to evaluate process configurations, energy integration, and performance metrics.

- Source vendors, subject matter expert contractors/consultants, and suppliers

- Lead technical aspects of vendor and supplier interactions for scale up design trade-off studies and front-end engineering

- Provide technical guidance for the development and documentation of commissioning plans and SOPs for operations and maintenance of process equipment.

- Collaborate with R&D, mechanical, controls, and electrical engineering teams to integrate process requirements into system design.

- Drive process scale-up efforts, including specification and selection of equipment such as reactors, heat exchangers, and separation units.

- Participate in Process Hazard Analysis and HAZOP exercises as owner of solids separation and handling process areas

- Contribute to techno-economic analyses and lifecycle assessments for process validation and business case development. Prepare and deliver technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and external partners.

- Support IP development by documenting novel process concepts and contributing to patent applications.

- Ensure adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards within the process engineering scope

- Other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:

- None

Required Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.

- 10+ years of professional experience; including at least 2 years of hydrogen production, methane reforming, pyrolysis, or similar high-temperature gas-phase processes. - 5+ years of experience as a process design engineer in the development of industrial technology.

- Experience with hydrogen/pyrolysis and/or carbon black industry is considered a strong asset.

- Competency with process simulation tools (PROMAX, HYSYS, and/or ASPENPLUS).

- Strong experience in reading, defining, developing, and interpreting PFDs, Heat & Mass Balances, and P&IDs.

- Experience with Process Hazard Analysis & HAZOP Studies.

- Previous experience specifying & selecting process equipment, valves, & instrumentation, specifically for multiphase (gas/solid) separation.

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Experience navigating the following codes & standards in previous projects is considered a strong asset:

- ASME B31.12

- ASME BPVC

- NFPA 2, 54, 70, 497, 499, and 652

Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience working in startup, clean energy, or technology commercialization environments.

- Knowledge of hydrogen markets, decarbonization pathways, and carbon product valorization.

- Experience with engineering project cost estimation standards.

- Experience providing technical mentorship and direction to junior engineers and process technologists.

- Experience leading cross-functional project teams and coordinating activities among internal stakeholders and external collaborators.

Working Conditions:

- Required to be onsite for 4 days at Woodinville.

- Performs work primarily in a standard office environment with consistent heating, lighting, and air conditioning.

- Occasionally visits manufacturing areas, which may involve exposure to variable temperatures, noise, and industrial equipment.

- Sits at a desk and uses a computer for prolonged periods, up to 8 hours per day.

- Occasionally stands and walks through production areas for meetings or team collaboration.

- Frequently use hands for typing, mouse operation, and handling documents or office materials.

- May lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.

- Is available during core business hours, with occasional flexibility required for meetings or project deadlines.

- Complies with site safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), when entering non-office environments.

About Us:

Modern Hydrogen is an energy & materials company. Our proprietary methane pyrolysis technology converts natural gas into high-value hydrogen while producing solid carbon for asphalt, which is used to strengthen roads. By producing hydrogen at the point of use, Modern Hydrogen helps utilities & industry extend the value of their existing energy infrastructure and reduce emissions, all the while maintaining energy security and affordability. Backed by top investors and customers like Bill Gates, NextEra Energy, and National Grid, Modern Hydrogen is redefining how natural gas resources can become more valuable and sustainable in and beyond the energy industry.

What We Offer:

Modern Hydrogen offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families:

- Pay Range

: $120K – $150K / year. *

Final compensation may vary based on location, relevant experience, skills, education, certifications, etc.

- Equity

: Company ownership through incentive stock options (ISOs).

- Retirement Savings

: SIMPLE IRA plan with a 3% company match.

- Employee Health Coverage

: $15 PPO or HSA medical, dental and vision plan through Premera, with an optional upgrade to advanced vision coverage with VSP.

- Dependent Health Coverage

: 50% company-paid.

- Optional Health Savings:

Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) for eligible medical plans.

- Life and AD&D Insurance

: Company paid $100,000 benefit with an option to purchase supplemental coverage.

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

Confidential support for mental health, wellness, and life planning.

- Paid Time Off:

Flexible Time Off (FTO) and 8 company-paid holidays.

- Paid Parental Leave

: Paid time away to welcome a new family member.

- Professional Development

: Annual budget for learning and growth opportunities (manager approval required).

- Immigration Sponsorship and Relocation Support

: May be offered for exceptional talent based on roles and business needs.

- Additional perks

: A dog-friendly office, a fully stocked breakroom, regular team lunches, and more!

Modern Hydrogen is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. The company does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Modern Hydrogen encourages individuals from all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities in the energy and technology sectors, to apply. Applicants requiring assistance or accommodation due to a disability may contact careers@modernhydrogen.com to ensure the application process is accessible.