Chemical Process Engineer Jobs in Washington

About us

We are Sila, a next-generation battery materials company. Our mission is to power the world's transition to clean energy. To create this future, our team is building a better lithium-ion battery from the inside out today. We engineer and manufacture ground-breaking battery materials that significantly increase the energy density of batteries, while reducing their size and weight. The result? Smaller more powerful batteries that can unlock innovation in consumer devices and accelerate the mass adoption of electric cars to eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels. We're tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time every day, and together we're redefining what's possible. Are you ready to be a part of a team committed to changing the world?

Who You Are

You are a highly analytical and experienced Process Engineer with a strong background in chemical plant operations including rotating equipment. You are adept at using data and process simulation to monitor, optimize and support complex chemical processes. You possess exceptional troubleshooting skills to maintain continuous, safe, and efficient production, and you are comfortable leading technical projects in a dynamic, high-growth manufacturing setting.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

The Process Engineer is accountable for:

• Process Design & Optimization: Design new chemical processes and continuously optimize existing unit operations to enhance efficiency, safety, product quality, and material yield.
• Rotating Equipment & System Reliability: Provide process engineering expertise for rotating equipment (e.g., pumps, compressors, etc.). Monitor performance, troubleshoot failures, and collaborate with Maintenance/Reliability teams to implement upgrades and preventative maintenance strategies that maximize uptime.
• Process Monitoring & Data Analysis: Oversee ongoing operations, collecting and analyzing high-volume process data (e.g., Seeq) to identify trends, diagnose potential issues, and implement data-driven corrective and preventative actions.
• Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Lead the investigation and resolution of complex operational problems, process deviations, and equipment malfunctions to ensure continuous, uninterrupted production targets are met.
• Safety & Compliance: Conduct thorough Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and ensure all processes and equipment strictly adhere to Sila's safety standards and environmental regulations.
• Project Management & Implementation: Lead and manage engineering projects focused on process improvement or new technology implementation. Coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams, contractors, and vendors to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and within budget.
• Equipment & Automation: Collaborate with Engineering and Automation teams on the design, configuration, and implementation of new process control systems (DCS, PLC) and equipment to advance process automation and data acquisition capabilities.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Success in this role will be measured by the following critical indicators:

• Material Yield: Achievement of established targets for material conversion efficiency and overall product yield.
• Process Uptime / OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): Reduction in unplanned process downtime and improvement in OEE for assigned unit operations and critical equipment.
• First Pass Quality (FPQ): Reduction in material rework or scrap rates due to process variability or defects.
• Energy and Utility Consumption: Identification and realization of measurable savings in specific unit operation energy or utility usage.
• Project Delivery: On-time and on-budget execution of process improvement and equipment implementation projects.
• Safety Incidents: Maintaining a zero recordable incident rate related to process or equipment changes/operations.

Required Skills & Qualifications

- Technical Skills: Strong foundational understanding of chemical engineering principles, unit operations (e.g., reactors, heat exchangers, material handling), and expertise in chemical plant equipment, particularly rotating equipment.
- Industry Experience: Demonstrated experience in a chemical plant or high-volume manufacturing environment, working directly with process equipment and control systems.
- Software Proficiency: Proficiency in Google and Microsoft applications, along with experience using process control systems (DCS, PLC) and data analysis tools.
- Analytical & Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and data analysis skills to interpret complex data, conduct process capability studies, and make informed, timely decisions.
- Communication & Collaboration: Strong verbal and written communication skills for reporting findings, writing procedures, and effectively collaborating with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.
- Project Management: Proven ability to plan, prioritize, manage resources, and execute technical projects to completion.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

- Move items up to 50 lbs with the assistance of lift equipment and carts
- Move long distances (such as from building to building) and be stationary for extended periods of time
- Reach low shelves or items on the floor
- Climb stairs or over containment walls
- Operate a computer and other office equipment, such as a laptop, copier/printer, etc in a fixed location

The starting base pay for this role is between $121,000 and $142,000 at the time of posting. The actual base pay depends on many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. Base pay is only one part of Sila's competitive Total Rewards package that can include benefits, perks, equity. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Working at Sila

We believe that building a diverse team at Sila helps us amplify our individual talents. We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to creating an inclusive environment where good ideas are free to come from anyone. We are proud to celebrate diversity and all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, national origin, or any other status protected by law.