About the Role

Our client, an innovative cleantech start-up, is tackling CO2 emissions by transforming industrial waste gases into carbon-negative chemicals. Backed by over $100 million in funding from top venture capital investors and the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme, they are scaling rapidly to make a global impact.

They are now seeking a Site Lead to oversee the full lifecycle of their first-of-a-kind (FOAK) bioCCU project. This role involves managing all phases, from Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) through to Commissioning and Startup, ensuring the successful scale-up of their breakthrough CO2 conversion technology.

Why This Role?

Take the lead in scaling a cutting-edge facility where your expertise will shine. This role offers the chance to shape groundbreaking technology, build processes from the ground up, and develop leadership skills in a high-growth environment. You’ll work with passionate experts, tackle complex challenges, and drive innovations that make a global impact—all while enjoying excellent pay, relocation support, and great benefits in one of the most exciting sectors of biotechnology.

Key Responsibilities

1. Engineering/Procurement Phase

• Support EPC surveillance and contribute to engineering reviews.
• Coordinate host-site interactions and oversee site preparation activities.
• Assist in developing the construction strategy.
• Conduct vendor shop visits and participate in HAZOP studies and Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT).

2. Construction Phase

• Oversee onsite construction activities and provide quality assurance for the construction partner.
• Develop and implement operator onboarding and training plans.
• Collaborate with fermentation and operations teams to establish operating procedures.
• Prepare detailed commissioning and startup strategies.

3. Commissioning & Startup Phase

• Lead commissioning efforts, including Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) and Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR).
• Manage startup activities, ensuring a seamless transition to steady-state operations.

4. Operations Phase

• Oversee all aspects of plant operations to meet safety, efficiency, and profitability goals.
• Manage the plant’s profit and loss (P&L), optimizing resource allocation for cost-effective solutions.
• Ensure strict compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations while championing process safety.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Education & Experience:

• BSc in Chemical Engineering.
• 5+ years of industry experience, including hands-on plant startup and commissioning experience in chemical or biotech facilities.
• Background in project engineering or project management is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with biological processes (e.g., fermentation, enzyme processes) is preferred.
• Process engineering experience is a plus.

Key Skills:

• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to foster collaboration across teams.
• Proactive and adaptable mindset, capable of navigating challenges associated with scaling innovative technologies.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and problem-solving capabilities.

What Our Client Offers

• The opportunity to work on challenging and meaningful projects with a passionate team.
• A pivotal role in reducing over 1 gigaton of CO2 emissions.
• An inclusive, empowering, and collaborative work environment.
• Relocation support to ensure a smooth transition to Texas.