Process Innovation Technologist

SSOE offers top-tier design and engineering services to a diverse array of clients and markets. Our team is composed of highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals who excel across various disciplines. We pride ourselves on our cross-disciplinary approach, which allows us to understand and address our clients' needs more comprehensively than traditional, siloed methods.

We are looking to hire a Process Innovation Technologist to our team. This senior-level, highly specialized role for focuses specifically on the design and optimization of chemical process systems. Leveraging your deep industry experience in designing cutting-edge high-tech facilities, the successful candidate will be responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing innovative chemical process technologies and solutions that enhance the performance, efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of our clients' high-tech systems. This role requires a deep understanding of high-tech manufacturing and industrial processes, a strong track record of technical innovation, and the ability to lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams specializing in chemical process delivery systems.

Lead the development of innovative process concepts specifically for high-tech manufacturing and industrial applications, including detailed feasibility studies, encompassing technical, economic, and environmental assessments. This may include:
• Ultrapure Water (UPW) Systems: Design and optimization of UPW generation, distribution, and storage systems, including pre-treatment, reverse osmosis, deionization, and point-of-use filtration. Focus on minimizing water and chemical consumption.
• Specialty Gas Systems: Design and optimization of specialty gas delivery systems, including bulk gas storage, distribution manifolds, and point-of-use gas panels. Emphasis on safety, purity, and flow control.
• Chemical Delivery Systems: Design and optimization of chemical delivery systems, including bulk chemical storage, blending systems, and point-of-use dispense systems. Focus on precise control, safety, and minimizing chemical waste.
• Wastewater Treatment Systems: Design and optimization of solvent, acid, and hazardous wastewater treatment systems, including neutralization, precipitation, and other advanced treatment technologies. Focus on regulatory compliance and minimizing environmental impact.
• HVAC and Cleanroom Design Interface: Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers specializing in HVAC and cleanroom design to ensure seamless integration of chemical process systems with the overall fab environment. This includes understanding airflow patterns, temperature and humidity control, and contamination control strategies.
• Sub-Fab Infrastructure: Design and optimization of sub-fab infrastructure to support chemical process systems, including piping layouts, equipment placement, and utility distribution. Focus on space optimization, accessibility, and maintainability.
• Lead the development of innovative process concepts and perform detailed feasibility studies, including technical, economic, and environmental assessments. This includes:
  • Process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) development.
  • Equipment sizing and selection, including heat exchangers, pumps, valves, and specialized chemical handling equipment.
  • Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling for process optimization.
  • Life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and total cost of ownership (TCO) evaluations.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary engineering teams to develop detailed designs for innovative chemical process systems. Utilize advanced process simulation software to model and optimize chemical processes, predict performance, and identify potential bottlenecks.
• Proactively identify and evaluate emerging chemical process technologies, materials, and equipment relevant to semiconductor manufacturing. This includes staying abreast of industry trends, attending conferences, and conducting literature reviews.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and designers. This includes:
  • Sharing best practices and lessons learned.
  • Conducting technical training sessions.
  • Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to clients, effectively communicating the value proposition of innovative solutions. This includes:
  • Developing technical presentations and reports.
  • Participating in client meetings and workshops.
  • Building strong client relationships.

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• An active Professional Engineer (PE) license in the state of practice or the ability to obtain reciprocity within 6 months of employment is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in the design and engineering of chemical process systems specifically for high-tech manufacturing and industrial facilities.
• Demonstrated experience in process innovation and technology development.
• Expertise in the design and operation of UPW, specialty gas, chemical delivery, and wastewater treatment systems for high-tech manufacturing and industrial facilities.
• Knowledge of relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., SEMI, NFPA) as they apply to high-tech manufacturing and industrial facilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to complex process engineering systems.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and mentorship abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Proven track record of innovation and creativity.
• Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000/year depending on location, education, experience, and any certifications that are directly related to the position.
• Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401K retirement savings plan (with company matching), opportunities for professional development and training, generous PTO & paid holidays.

Join us at SSOE, where your expertise will thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering excellence. If you're passionate about innovation and eager to make a significant impact, we invite you to apply and become a part of our forward-thinking team.