Chemical Process Engineer
Budget: $20.0 - $80.0
HOURLY / FULL_TIME
⭐ 0.00 (0)
United States
process-modeling, flowsheet, process-flow-diagram, plant-layout-design, chemical-engineering, process-engineering, process-design, process-simulation, chemical-analysis, process-optimization
About the work
We're an early-stage specialty-chemistry company developing a novel functional fluid with a tightly defined set of physical-property and performance targets. As we evaluate candidate formulations, we need a process engineer to map the relevant processes, model mixture and phase behavior, and pressure-test the thermophysical assumptions behind our candidate set.
This is a focused, fast-moving project that pairs closely with our computational-chemistry work. The goal is clear, well-documented analysis that supports a confident go/no-go decision before we commit to laboratory and scale-up work. Strong performers will have a direct path to a permanent role as we grow.
What you'll do
Build process maps and flow models for candidate synthesis and handling routes.
Model mixture behavior and phase equilibrium (including vapor–liquid equilibrium and azeotrope behavior) and translate it into practical operating implications.
Analyze thermophysical performance — heat-transfer behavior, phase-change characteristics, and related parameters — against defined targets.
Support flammability- and safety-related analysis of candidate fluids and mixtures.
Identify process constraints, sensitivities, and risks early, and flag where a candidate's properties make a route impractical.
Document methodology, assumptions, and results so technical and non-technical stakeholders can act on them.
Required
BS/MS in Chemical Engineering (or closely related); strong fundamentals in thermodynamics and transport.
Hands-on experience with process-simulation software — Aspen Plus and/or Aspen HYSYS strongly preferred (equivalents such as ChemCAD, ProMax, or DWSIM also relevant).
Demonstrated experience modeling phase equilibrium and selecting/validating appropriate thermodynamic property methods.
Solid grasp of thermophysical-property estimation and how fluid properties drive process behavior.
Ability to work independently, define a defensible approach, and communicate results crisply.
Nice to have
Experience with heat-transfer or phase-change (boiling/condensation) modeling.
Familiarity with combustion or flammability analysis (flash point, flammability limits, flame behavior).
Comfort with Python or similar for data handling and custom calculations.
Exposure to early-stage R&D or scale-up, where data is incomplete and judgment matters.
To apply
Please include:
A short summary of a project where you modeled phase equilibrium or thermophysical behavior — the tools you used, the thermodynamic methods you chose, and how you validated them.
Which process-simulation tools you've worked with, and your depth in each.
An example of a process model or analysis you built that changed a technical decision (no confidential material).
Apri su Upwork