Process Engineer

INTRODUCTION TO HYCO1

HYCO1 has emerged as the global leader in CO₂ Utilization Technology, a field recognized as critical to addressing climate change. Today, CO₂ is largely a waste byproduct released into the atmosphere due to a lack of cost-effective utilization methods. Each year, about 40 gigatons of CO₂ are emitted, largely from production processes that rely on fossil-based feedstocks. HYCO1 CUBE™ Technology turns CO₂ emissions into high-value products while reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

At the heart of HYCO1’s solution is its patented CUBE™ Technology (Carbon Utilization, Best Efficiency), which can convert over 95% of CO₂ and CH₄ in a single reactor pass, producing high-grade syngas at the lowest cost and carbon intensity on the market. CUBE™ Technology makes it possible to manufacture fuels, chemicals, and other products from CO₂ at a lower cost than from fossil fuels. This technology uses a patented, non-coking, pre-sintered, spherical catalyst that is highly durable and does not need to be regenerated. Currently operational in its first commercial installation, CUBE™ Technology is proving to be both versatile and market ready. Unlike conventional syngas production technologies such as steam methane reforming (SMR) or autothermal reforming (ATR), HYCO1’s CUBE™ CO₂ Reactor (CCR) is exceptionally flexible. It can produce syngas in any desired ratio by simply adjusting the feed gases. Built on proven SMR reactor designs but enhanced with a superior catalyst, CUBE™ Technology is poised to become the new global standard for syngas production.

Essential Duties/Skills

Process Design and Technical Execution

• Develop and maintain comprehensive Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and Equipment Lists.
• Perform mass and energy balances, heat integration analysis, and process optimization using simulation tools such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, UniSim, and ChemCAD.
• Generate detailed equipment datasheets, specifications, and process narratives.
• Support the scaling-up of processes from pilot to commercial scale.
• Collaborate with mechanical and controls engineers to define system boundaries, layouts, and automation logic.
• Conduct non-standard engineering calculations including pressure drop, heat transfer, reactor design, and separation efficiency.
• Use modeling tools to validate process designs and ensure performance guarantees.
• Review and validate vendor design data and ensure alignment with project requirements.
• Participate in HAZOP studies, PHA reviews, and risk mitigation activities.
• Identify and justify process improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, safety, and cost reduction.
• Develop and implement engineering tools, design templates, and best practices.
• Assist with commissioning, plant troubleshooting, and root cause analysis.
• Collaboration

Support project development from concept through FEED and detailed design.

• Coordinate with EPC contractors, vendors, and consultants for technical alignment and quality compliance.
• Prepare and manage project documentation such as technical reports, design memos, and design basis documents.
• Ensure proper document control, versioning, and consistency across deliverables.
• Provide technical support to Operations, R&D, Sales, and Technical Services teams.
• Participate in client meetings, project reviews, and design coordination sessions.
• Work with site personnel to troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Compile and analyze plant data to identify inefficiencies and optimization opportunities.
• Support project managers with budget tracking tools and progress reports.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with internal QA/QC standards.

Education and Skill Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 4 years of relevant experience (minimum) in process design, plant operations, or engineering consulting.
• Strong understanding of chemical process fundamentals, mass and energy balance, and fluid mechanics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and document management systems.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, ChemCAD, UniSim).
• Familiarity with hydraulic modeling tools (AFT Fathom, PIPE-FLO).
•  Experience with carbon capture, gasification, syngas processing, or renewable chemical technologies.
• Understanding of PSM, HAZOP, and EPA/OSHA compliance.
• Experience working with EPC contractors and process automation systems
• (PLC/DCS).
• Experience with steam system and gas separation such as PSA, VPSA, Cryogenic.

Experience:

• 4 years of relevant experience (minimum) in process design, plant operations, (Required)

Language Ability:

• Read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Timely response support to common inquiries from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
• Write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format.
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing and speaking English

Math Ability:

• Apply advanced mathematical concepts to chemical engineering problems.

Reasoning Ability:

• Apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems.
• Dealing with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
• Demonstrate high emotional intelligence in collaborating with peers and subordinates.
• Excel in creative and innovative forward thinking with well-reasoned risk-taking.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must have a strong capability in word processing software; spreadsheet software; E-mail; internet software; and specific technical software including simulation software HYSYS and, or Aspen Plus and Pro II, MS programs Outlook, Excel, Word, and Power Point.

Certificates and Licenses:

PE / Professional Engineering certification in Texas or other states would be highly supportive.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Wellness Plan
• Cell Phone Stipend
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Full Time Hours
• Monday to Friday

Compensation

HYCO1 offers competitive compensation and a competitive benefits package including

• stock options,
• performance-based incentive compensation,
• Paid Time Off,
• 401K,
• Wellness Plan,
• and a Flexible Spending Account.

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Houston, TX: Reliably commute to the IAH area or planning to relocate before starting. Note: Must be able to legally work in the US without sponsorship. All work visas must be valid at the time of application.

Work Environment & Willingness to Travel:

This role is primarily office-based with occasional site visits to fabrication shops, refineries, chemical, or industrial facilities. Travel up to 25% may be required for project support, vendor visits, or field assignments. Exposure to heat, noise, and industrial hazards is possible during site visits. Compliance with PPE and site-specific safety standards is mandatory.

Career Development

This role offers a clear career path toward Senior Process Engineer role. HYCO1 supports professional development through mentorship, technical training, and industry certifications.

Physical Activities and Requirements

This position may require planned and efficient travel. Must have the ability to sit for long periods of time and view computer screens for long periods of time. Must be able to speak and listen clearly. Fine visual acuity to read labels, safety notices, and other written materials for accuracy required. May be exposed at times to loud noises, wet and humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic chemicals, and extreme hot and cold, depending on weather conditions.

Physical Strength:

• Must be able to climb four flights of stairs in PPE
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds
• Must be able to carry 25 pounds for distances up to 100m
• Must be able to work outside in hot/cold weather if required
• Must be able to sit work at a keyboard and screen for long periods

Intent And Function of Job Description

All descriptions have been reviewed to ensure that only essential functions and basic duties have been included. Requirements, skills, and abilities included have been determined to be the minimal standards required to successfully perform the position. In no instance should the duties, responsibilities, and requirements described herein be interpreted as all-inclusive. Additional duties may be assigned by HYCO1 as deemed appropriate.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is possible that requirements may be modified to reasonably accommodate disabled individuals. However, no accommodation will be made which may pose serious health or safety risks to the employee or others or which impose undue hardships on the organization. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. HYCO1 is an at-will employer. Employees may be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.