Senior Chemical Research Engineer

About Duranium

We’re working to produce the most profitable light-weight metals in the world, here in the US, and carbon neutrally. We’re doing this by leveraging existing chlorination and electrolytic technology, while designing a novel molten materials process that takes byproducts from the metal production process and creates critical feedstock and high value coproducts. We are located in Alameda and are building our pilot plant for operation in the Bay Area Q2 2026.

What’s in it for you?

You’ll be working with a team of smart, creative people who are looking to disrupt legacy producers and change how the US thinks about material production. You will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact on day one. This is a pivotal role within our team, where you will play a crucial part in advancing our first-of-its-kind technology to the next stage. If you are driven by innovation and eager to contribute to the development of cutting-edge solutions, we encourage you to connect with us.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced chemical engineer with specialized expertise in hazardous gas handling systems to join our engineering team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and optimizing chemical processes for our advanced metal refinement operations, with a particular focus on systems

involving corrosive gases. You will work cross-functionally alongside our CTO to design experiments, analyze data, and improve performance. In the near term you will be working on the design and delivery of the pilot plant.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and optimize chemical processes for metal refinement operations including the involvement of hazardous gases at the pilot scale
• Develop and implement safety protocols and risk management procedures
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate gas handling systems with overall plant operations
• Perform hazard analysis (HAZOP, FMEA) and develop mitigation strategies
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other regulatory requirements for hazardous materials
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for process optimization and equipment performance
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and standard operating procedures
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance
• Support pilot plant operations and scale-up activities

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related field
• 4-10 years of hands-on experience in chemical process engineering (can include internships and research)
• Experience with hazardous gas handling equipment, scrubber systems, and emergency response protocols
• Proficiency in process simulation software
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of metallurgical processes and metal refinement operations
• Background in process control systems and automation
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and permitting processes
• Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Previous work in mining, metallurgy, or specialty chemicals industries

Compensation

• Salary range: $120,000 - $160,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

• Highly competitive stock package

• Health, Dental and Eye insurance

  If you're driven to create groundbreaking technology and want to be part of something truly transformative, this is your chance. Join us early and grow with enormous upside potential!