About the Position

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineering Manager, who will report to the COO, to lead our Biorefinery Project to produce renewable chemicals and biodegradable functional polymers with existing sales in agriculture, water treatment and home care markets. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemical engineering, process optimization, and project management. They will be responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of the project from design to commissioning, ensuring that all processes are efficient, cost-effective, and meet the highest standards for environmental, health and safety in a sustainable manner.

The project includes several novel technologies. The Process Engineering Manager will have overall responsibility to ensure that existing pilot operations are managed and operated to provide accurate and relevant engineering design data to support engineering and start-up of the commercial facility.

This is a senior role within the company with primary responsibility for our flagship commercial project supporting the full-scale commercial launch of our Ecoteria^™ and Soltellus^™ products.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Manage the engineering activities for a major capital project as the senior day-to-day interface with the EPC and the partner/co-location site.
• Ensure pilot operations are managed to deliver accurate and relevant engineering design and operational data for the commercial plant.
• Manage an internal team of engineers and technicians, providing guidance and support to ensure project goals are met.
• Hire and train the lead operators and engineers to develop the commissioning plan for the new production facility, working closely with the future plant operations manager
• Develop and maintain the overall techno-economic model to guide engineering design and ensure the project meets the commercial and investment performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Develop and manage project budgets and schedules with the EPC and communicate any deviations and correction actions proactively to senior management.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Liaise with suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Prepare and present technical reports and project updates to senior management.

Qualifications & Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related field, Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in process engineering, with at least 5 years in technical project managerial roles.
• Experience working with and directing activities of the EPC during FEED as well as detailed design, procurement and construction phases.
• Operations experience, especially commissioning and troubleshooting of new facilities deploying novel technologies, with a track record of delivering against project objectives.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale projects greater than $100M in the chemical or renewable materials industry, meeting budget and schedule.
• Experience developing novel technologies and translating pilot data into engineering design specifications and robust commercial designs.
• Deep domain expertise in engineering design activities including flowsheet and P&ID development, equipment and piping specification and selection, functional control specifications, process safety studies and support of permitting activities.
• Familiarity with process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of current environmental regulations and sustainability practices.
• Motivated self-starter with a sense of urgency that is comfortable in a fast-paced, multitasking environment.
• Excellent leadership and management skills with strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication capabilities.
• Collaborative, analytical, and data driven.
• The highest regard for safety, respect for people, and ethical behavior.
• Ability to travel and work in the EPC office and project site as well as select piloting and vendor trials (~40%)

Nice-to-haves (but not required):

• Experience in polymer reaction engineering related to high viscosity water soluble polymer systems will be an advantage.

Compensation and Benefits:Lygos offers highly competitive salaries, stock options, bonus and benefits, including medical and dental insurance, unlimited paid time off, and 401(k).

• Salary Range: $180,000 - $260,000 - Actual pay will vary based on various factors, including but not limited to location, skill, experience, and performance. 

The benefits and stock purchase described above are subject to the terms and conditions of any governing plans, policies, practices, agreements, or other materials or documents as in effect from time to time, including but not limited to terms and conditions regarding eligibility.

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We are not able to sponsor individuals for employment visas for this job. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

This position can be performed remotely but will require frequent travel to the Lygos, CA headquarters as well as the EPC design office (Greenville, SC) and project site (Iowa). There is no relocation assistance offered at this time.