Director Process & Chemical Engineering

Company Description

Intrinsic Foundries is revolutionizing the way we view carbon emissions by converting them into high-value biochemicals using microalgae & yeast.

OVERVIEW

The Director of Process & Chemical Engineering will lead the development and scale-up of scalable bioprocessing systems, serving as the technical bridge between laboratory R&D, photobioreactor (PBR) operations, pilot facilities, and commercial deployment sites.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and optimize scalable process systems from lab to commercial scale

Lead process design, mass and energy balances, and process flow diagrams (PFDs) for carbon capture and algae-based bioprocessing

Collaborate closely with PBR engineering teams to optimize cultivation parameters and reactor performance

Work with laboratory teams to translate bench-scale findings into scalable process designs

Coordinate with pilot plant teams to validate process parameters and scale-up strategies

Interface with on-site deployment teams to ensure smooth technology transfer and implementation

Establish process control strategies, critical process parameters (CPPs), and process analytical technology (PAT) frameworks

Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all operational scales

Develop technical documentation including batch records, SOPs, and process validation protocols

Lead cross-functional technical reviews and troubleshooting initiatives

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree (MS / PhD) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related field

10+ years of experience in bioprocess engineering with demonstrated scale-up expertise

Proven track record developing systems from lab scale (1-10L) through pilot (100-1000L) to commercial scale (>

10,000L)

Strong understanding of photobioreactor systems, algae cultivation, or microbial fermentation

Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, SuperPro Designer, or similar)

Deep knowledge of unit operations, process integration, and downstream processing

Excellent cross-functional collaboration and communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience with carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies

Background in precision fermentation or algae-based bioprocessing

Knowledge of regulatory requirements (FDA, EPA, Biodiversity Authority) for bioprocessing facilities

Experience commissioning and starting up bioprocessing facilities