Process Engineer (full-time)

” A hands-on Process Engineer who is able to not only design a process but also actively participate in building and operating a pilot plant for PHA biomass production. And a bold collaborator with good communication and planning skills to make the bridge between researchers and operators of our pilot plant. ”

Summary of the position we offer you
As a Process Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the development and optimization of a wastewater treatment system tailored for the production of PHA. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and project managers to ensure the successful implementation of a cutting-edge solution that addresses environmental challenges associated with plastic waste.

This position will focus on the biological step of the PHA production process, where we convert organics in wastewater and other organic residual streams into PHA by using mixed bacterial cultures in an open system cultivation. As a process engineer you will support the development of PHA production plants, going from pilots, full scale plant design and implementation. You will be actively involved in a paradigm shift by transforming wastewater treatment plants into profit centres that contribute to the transition to a circular economy.

Qualifications & Experiences you bring with you

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in process engineering, preferably in wastewater and / or organic waste treatment or fermentation processes.
• Familiarity with PHA production processes (fermentation processes) and wastewater treatment technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience with building and operating pilot plants.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to wastewater treatment and environmental protection.

Roles & Responsibility

Process Design and Optimization:

• Develop and optimize processes for the conversion of wastewater into PHA, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and environmental sustainability.
• Take charge of pilots assembly and operation.
• Properly organise data from testing for use in process design.

Technology Evaluation and Integration:

• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in wastewater treatment and PHA production technologies.
• Evaluate and integrate innovative technologies into the plant design to enhance overall efficiency and sustainability.

Regulatory Compliance

• Collaborate with regulatory agencies to ensure that the wastewater treatment plant adheres to environmental and safety standards.
• Prepare documentation and reports for regulatory submissions and compliance assessments.

Equipment Selection and Procurement:

• Identify and specify equipment required for the PHA biomass production process, considering factors such as durability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Engage different equipment suppliers directly in search for the best equipment.
• Collaborate with the purchasing team.

Process Monitoring and Control:

• Implement robust monitoring systems to track key parameters in the PHA biomass production processes.
• Apply control strategies to optimize performance and address deviations from set parameters.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including operators, researchers, environmental scientists, and project managers.
• Effectively communicate complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders, both internally and externally.

Ready to apply?
Are you the bold Process Engineer we are looking for, or do you need more information? Please send your questions or your application letter with motivation, vision, and experiences to João Sousa –  j.sousa@paquesbiomaterials.nl.

Paques Biomaterials is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.