Chemical Engineer L1

About CycloKinetics

CycloKinetics is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications. 

We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.  

Job Summary: 

We are seeking to hire an on-site entry-level Chemical Engineer to join our dynamic team. The Chemical Engineer will utilize chemical plant equipment and devise processes for separating and purifying intermediates and products, such as performance advantaged sustainable fuels by applying principles and technology of chemistry, physics, and engineering.

The successful candidate must have theorical knowledge of catalytic systems, process integration, scale up of chemical processes, reaction and separation systems, hydrocarbon, olefins, and organic convergent systems. 

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Support daily operations handling, preparing, and managing chemical substances using appropriate PPE
• Safely measure, mix, transport, and handle chemicals per procedures and PPE requirements
• Operate and maintain chemical processing and testing equipment
• Perform detailed and routine engineering assignments (calculations, tests, analysis)
• Contribute to design, optimization, and implementation of measurement and control systems using lab and pilot data
• Design and develop simple test fixtures and experimental setups
• Conduct small-scale unit operation experiments
• Perform pilot-scale experiments to test materials, reactions, or process modifications
• Evaluate equipment and processes to optimize performance and ensure safety/environmental compliance
• Test and monitor process performance across production stages (temperature, flow, concentration, catalyst loading, pressure) under senior guidance
• Recommend arrangements of basic unit operations (distillation, continuous reactors, adsorption/desorption) with general guidance
• Contribute to separation processes for liquids or gases using controlled chemical methods
• Conduct research to develop improved chemical manufacturing processes
• Compile and analyze test data to assess operating efficiency or diagnose malfunctions
• Prepare production cost estimates and progress reports for management
• Maintain accurate laboratory records (notebooks, test results, data) per documentation/control guidelines
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, materials science, and analytical techniques
• Support development of standard operating procedures and progress reports
• Demonstrate effective communication, organization, documentation, and computer skills (including Microsoft Suite)
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Manager/Supervisor or leadership

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with 1–5 years industrial experience applying chemical engineering concepts; relevant undergraduate applied knowledge may be considered
• Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with 0–3 years industrial experience applying chemical engineering concepts; relevant undergraduate applied knowledge may be considered
• Background in biorefinery, petroleum, or chemical industries preferred
• Basic knowledge of chemical engineering principles: mass and energy balances, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, reaction engineering
• Basic knowledge of pressure and heated systems
• Basic knowledge of Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
• Familiarity with chemical handling and laboratory safety practices
• Commitment to process safety; ability to build, recognize, maintain, and promote safety standards
• Ability to use a respirator per OSHA standards; must pass respirator fit test and be clean-shaven where the respirator seals the face
• Prior experience with hand and power tools required
• Strong communication and documentation skills; ability to accurately record and report data
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven experience participating in work teams with personal accountability, attention to detail, collaboration, and results-driven focus
• Highly detail-oriented, organized, proactive, and self-driven with demonstrated initiative to drive scientific and operational goals
• Demonstrated proficiency in common computer tools and web-based applications

Physical Demands: 

Frequent lifting and moving of items up to fifty (50) pounds, bending, reaching above shoulder level, climbing stairs, pulling, prolonged standing or sitting may be required. Must have safe work habits and perform all duties in accordance with company safety policies. Personal protective equipment is provided by the company, and its use is mandatory.  

General: 

This position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah with work performed on-site. CycloKinetics is an At-Will, VEVRAA, Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, E-Verify, and Drug Free Workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background verification and drug screens.

Benefits:

CycloKinetics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

• 15 Days of PTO
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Savings Plan (including Roth options)
• Basic Life Insurance
• Dependent Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Parental Leave
• ESOP
• Bonus Potential

EEO Statement: 

CycloKinetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We are excited to work with talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. All employment decisions at CycloKinetics are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

We’re looking for detail-oriented team members who pride themselves on solving problems while bringing positive energy and strong communication skills to the table. If this describes you, come join our team today and contribute to the success of our organization!

FLSA Classification: Exempt