Associate Process Engineer
Jupiter Volta is scaling the RF plasma-based nitrogen fixation process toward industrial nitric acid production, and we need someone to help keep the tools running and the data flowing. This role will work hands-on with our plasma reactor systems day-to-day — supporting experimental runs, monitoring process parameters, troubleshooting equipment issues, and helping characterize reactor performance as we push toward production-scale throughput. This is a role for someone who's energized by being in the lab or on the floor as much as at a desk, working closely with our process engineering lead to keep experiments moving and turn operational data into insight.
Key Responsibilities:
Design, run, and troubleshoot (process type, e.g., chemical/plasma/thermal) experiments to characterize (key outputs — yield, efficiency, purity, throughput)
Own process instrumentation and diagnostics including, but not limited to, gas analyzers, spectrometers, mass spec, OES
Develop and maintain process models (mass/energy balances, kinetics, equipment sizing) using Python and/or JMP
Work cross-functionally with mechanical/electrical/software teams, leadership to integrate process requirements into system design
Analyze historian/SCADA data to monitor process health and identify optimization opportunities
Maintain safety protocols for handling hazardous materials — reactive gases, corrosives, high pressure
Document experimental procedures, results, and process specifications
Required Skills and Experience:
1+ years of experience in process/chemical engineering
B.S./M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related field
Working knowledge of reaction engineering / thermodynamics / mass transfer / fluid dynamics
Comfort with data analysis and scripting (Python, SQL, or similar)
Experience working in a lab or pilot-plant environment with hazardous materials
Strong written communication for documenting process specs and findings
Bonus Skills:
Experience with plasma tools
Familiarity with PLC/SCADA systems
Startup or fast-paced R&D experience where you wear multiple hats
Jupiter Volta is an early-stage startup. Compensation will include equity and be awarded based on experience.
Location is on-site in Berkeley, CA. and Richmond, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Sick Leave Policy
Work Location: In person at our Berkeley and Richmond locations
Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Work Location: In person