Process Engineer

We're hiring a Senior Process Engineer for an early-stage hardware and materials startup is building the next generation of American metalmaking. Using a novel, proprietary chemistry, the company produces rare earth metals — the critical inputs behind EVs, aerospace systems, wind turbines, and data centers — cleaner, cheaper, and faster than legacy processes. Backed by $75M from top-tier investors, the company is already seeing demand that exceeds 3x its planned plant capacity, and is scaling fast.This is a chance to join a lean, deeply technical team (17 people, growing) and lead a plant build from the ground up, not maintain someone else's system.The role:As Senior Process Engineer, you'll own the scale-up of a 500 ton/year rare earth metallization plant, from finalizing detailed engineering through full commissioning. You'll be the person driving this forward end to end, working closely with the leadership team in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment.What you'll do:Finalize detailed engineering for a vacuum induction furnace and associated plant systemsManage vendor relationships: equipment spec, selection, FAT/SAT, and installationCoordinate plant site modifications — roofs, foundations, power, water, gas, compressed airOwn core process deliverables: PFDs, P&IDs, mass & energy balances, control narrativesDevelop commissioning plans, SOPs, and operator training to take the plant from construction through startup and ramp-to-rateWhat we're looking for:6-10+ years in process or project engineering for industrial plant design, construction, and commissioningExperience taking a plant or facility through commissioning end to endTrack record scaling processes from lab/pilot to commercial scaleEngineering degree (chemical, metallurgical, or related)Strong technical fundamentals: PFDs, P&IDs, mass & energy balances, HAZOP studiesHigh-temperature materials processing or furnace experience a strong plusFirst-principles thinker, comfortable with ambiguity and fast-changing prioritiesCompensation & logistics:$135K–$350K base + competitive equity, depending on experienceComprehensive health, dental, and vision insuranceDaily company-provided lunch, flexible unlimited PTOOn-site 5 days/week in Alameda, CA (East Bay, close to Oakland and SF)Travel required 1-2x/month to vendor and plant sitesVisa sponsorship open: OPT/H1B transfers, new H1B, TN