Design Lead Jobs in Pennsylvania
Design Lead jobs in Pennsylvania are actively sought across the state's product, healthcare technology, and financial services sectors, with openings ranging from mid-level contributors to senior creative directors overseeing cross-functional teams. Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Malvern are the primary hiring metros, home to established employers like Comcast, Highmark Health, and Vanguard, all of which maintain in-house design functions at scale. The most in-demand specialties in Pennsylvania are product design leadership, UX strategy, and brand systems design. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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About AIRCO
AIRCO is a world leader in carbon conversion technology, paving the way to global energy security by transforming CO₂ into a valuable resource. Its proprietary AIRMADE™ Technology is an adaptable platform that allows any industry to efficiently produce high-demand, fully-formulated synthetic fuels from waste CO₂ and hydrogen.
The company has commercial partnerships with airlines including JetBlue and Virgin Atlantic, amongst others, and has been awarded multiple government contracts, including with NASA and the United States Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit. The company has received industry recognition through awards such as Time Best Inventions, Inc. Best in Business, Fast Company World Changing Ideas, and the XPrize for Carbon Removal.
AIRCO's many accolades include winning the prestigious Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the Environmental Protection Agency in October 2023, an award given to organizations that reinvent processes to reduce the generation of hazardous substances and byproducts. AIRCO was also declared a winner for the World Economic Forum UpLink Sustainable Aviation Challenge, which accelerates the development of promising technology pathways that enable widespread uptake of SAF.
The Position
We are seeking a Lead Engineer, Process Design to join our team. This role will report to our Manager of Engineering. This position will provide technical leadership on engineering flowsheet development, process simulation and design, process mass and heat balance generation, process equipment selection and design, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment datasheets etc. This role will be a part of our Engineering department, and will work closely with our scientists, engineers, and operations team. This role is based in New Britain, PA and works on-site three days per week
What you get to do.
- Lead the development of Process Design Packages for new technologies developed by AIRCO research and development organization. These packages will provide the technical basis for FEL, FEED, and detailed engineering performed by EPC contractors.
- Lead process synthesis, simulation and design, generation of material & heat balance, equipment selection and design, PFD and P&ID generation, equipment data sheet generation, process hydraulics calculation, HAZOP reviews for commercial units based on carbon dioxide conversion technologies developed by AIRCO
- Serve as the primary process-engineering liaison among R&D, operations, EPC contractors, customers, and other engineering disciplines throughout project development, construction support, commissioning, and startup
- Support process-economic evaluations, cost estimates, project planning, and technical decision making by clearly communicating assumptions, findings, risks, and recommendations
- Ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards, internal design guidelines, and environmental, health and safety regulations for all the AIRCO developed technologies and processes.
- Represent AIRCO in external meetings and present engineering solutions, technical recommendations, and process-design packages.
- Develop engineering standards and work practices, mentor internal teams, and promote a safe, collaborative, and high-quality engineering environment.
What you bring to AIRCO
- Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering required; advanced degree preferred
- 10-15 years of design experience in refining, petrochemical, chemical, gas processing, or a related process industry.
- Expertise in industry-standard process simulation modeling: Aspen Plus, HYSYS
- Expertise in generating commercial scale heat and material balances, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, datasheets, hydraulics, and Process Design Packages.
- Strong knowledge of process equipment design, development, sizing, and selection.
Working at AIRCO - In addition to standard medical and dental benefits, that kick in Day 1, AIRCO is:
- A team of engineers, scientists, operators, builders, and innovators working on hard problems with tangible impact.
- A company building and deploying real systems for fuel and chemical production in real-world conditions.
- A hands-on environment where ownership is clear, decisions stay close to the work, and teams move with trust, discipline, and speed.
- Driven by work that matters, with a culture grounded in safety, teamwork, transparency, purpose, agility, ambition, and creativity.
We also provide:
Comprehensive Health Benefits
- Full coverage for employee base premiums on health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 70% coverage for spouse and dependent base premiums.
- Choose between base plans or enhanced options to fit your needs.
Health Savings & Flexibility
- Access company-sponsored HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Income Protection & Insurance
- Company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance.
- Optional Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance plans.
Time Off & Leave
- Flexible and generous paid time off, including national holidays and sick leave.
- Paid family leave to support you during important life moments.
Retirement Savings
- Tax-deferred 401(k) plan with a 3% company match to help you invest in your future.
Commuter Benefits
- Pre-tax savings on transit and parking, plus monthly company contributions.
Additional Perks
- Ancillary benefits through Sequoia, including pet insurance and financial wellness programs.
- Employee wellness program to support your well-being.Inclusive of Wellhub & One Medical.
- Company-sponsored events and programs that promote an inclusive and values-driven workplace.
- In person weekly catered lunch every Wednesday.
At AIRCO we value employees for their unique perspectives. We are an inclusive affirmative action Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We consider applicants without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, present or past history of intellectual, learning, mental, or physical disability (including but not limited to blindness) unless AIRCO determines that such disability prevents performance of the work involved, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.
Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women, marginalized genders and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At AIRCO we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles
This position requires access to technology, software and other information that is subject to governmental access control restrictions, due to export controls, security classification and/or designation as Controlled Unclassified Information. Employment in this position is conditioned on the candidate's ability to obtain and maintain appropriate government authorization to access technology or information, to the extent required, including without limitation a security clearance, export license, or other documentation required to establish authorization to receive access to such items technology or information.
We may delay commencement of employment, rescind an offer of employment, terminate employment, and/or modify job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and/or access to Company facilities and information systems, as we deem appropriate, in order to ensure compliance with applicable government access control restrictions.
I consent to transfer my data to Air Company in the U.S. and to its use in accordance with the Air Company Privacy Policy, and I opt in to receiving information from Air Company. Air Company does not sell or share personal information to third parties within the meanings given under applicable laws.
About AIRCO
AIRCO is a world leader in carbon conversion technology, paving the way to global energy security by transforming CO₂ into a valuable resource. Its proprietary AIRMADE™ Technology is an adaptable platform that allows any industry to efficiently produce high-demand, fully-formulated synthetic fuels from waste CO₂ and hydrogen.
The company has commercial partnerships with airlines including JetBlue and Virgin Atlantic, amongst others, and has been awarded multiple government contracts, including with NASA and the United States Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit. The company has received industry recognition through awards such as Time Best Inventions, Inc. Best in Business, Fast Company World Changing Ideas, and the XPrize for Carbon Removal.
AIRCO's many accolades include winning the prestigious Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the Environmental Protection Agency in October 2023, an award given to organizations that reinvent processes to reduce the generation of hazardous substances and byproducts. AIRCO was also declared a winner for the World Economic Forum UpLink Sustainable Aviation Challenge, which accelerates the development of promising technology pathways that enable widespread uptake of SAF.
The Position
We are seeking a Lead Engineer, Process Design to join our team. This role will report to our Manager of Engineering. This position will provide technical leadership on engineering flowsheet development, process simulation and design, process mass and heat balance generation, process equipment selection and design, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment datasheets etc. This role will be a part of our Engineering department, and will work closely with our scientists, engineers, and operations team. This role is based in New Britain, PA and works on-site three days per week
What you get to do.
- Lead the development of Process Design Packages for new technologies developed by AIRCO research and development organization. These packages will provide the technical basis for FEL, FEED, and detailed engineering performed by EPC contractors.
- Lead process synthesis, simulation and design, generation of material & heat balance, equipment selection and design, PFD and P&ID generation, equipment data sheet generation, process hydraulics calculation, HAZOP reviews for commercial units based on carbon dioxide conversion technologies developed by AIRCO
- Serve as the primary process-engineering liaison among R&D, operations, EPC contractors, customers, and other engineering disciplines throughout project development, construction support, commissioning, and startup
- Support process-economic evaluations, cost estimates, project planning, and technical decision making by clearly communicating assumptions, findings, risks, and recommendations
- Ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards, internal design guidelines, and environmental, health and safety regulations for all the AIRCO developed technologies and processes.
- Represent AIRCO in external meetings and present engineering solutions, technical recommendations, and process-design packages.
- Develop engineering standards and work practices, mentor internal teams, and promote a safe, collaborative, and high-quality engineering environment.
What you bring to AIRCO
- Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering required; advanced degree preferred
- 10-15 years of design experience in refining, petrochemical, chemical, gas processing, or a related process industry.
- Expertise in industry-standard process simulation modeling: Aspen Plus, HYSYS
- Expertise in generating commercial scale heat and material balances, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, datasheets, hydraulics, and Process Design Packages.
- Strong knowledge of process equipment design, development, sizing, and selection.
Working at AIRCO - In addition to standard medical and dental benefits, that kick in Day 1, AIRCO is:
- A team of engineers, scientists, operators, builders, and innovators working on hard problems with tangible impact.
- A company building and deploying real systems for fuel and chemical production in real-world conditions.
- A hands-on environment where ownership is clear, decisions stay close to the work, and teams move with trust, discipline, and speed.
- Driven by work that matters, with a culture grounded in safety, teamwork, transparency, purpose, agility, ambition, and creativity.
We also provide:
Comprehensive Health Benefits
- Full coverage for employee base premiums on health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 70% coverage for spouse and dependent base premiums.
- Choose between base plans or enhanced options to fit your needs.
Health Savings & Flexibility
- Access company-sponsored HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Income Protection & Insurance
- Company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance.
- Optional Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance plans.
Time Off & Leave
- Flexible and generous paid time off, including national holidays and sick leave.
- Paid family leave to support you during important life moments.
Retirement Savings
- Tax-deferred 401(k) plan with a 3% company match to help you invest in your future.
Commuter Benefits
- Pre-tax savings on transit and parking, plus monthly company contributions.
Additional Perks
- Ancillary benefits through Sequoia, including pet insurance and financial wellness programs.
- Employee wellness program to support your well-being.Inclusive of Wellhub & One Medical.
- Company-sponsored events and programs that promote an inclusive and values-driven workplace.
- In person weekly catered lunch every Wednesday.
At AIRCO we value employees for their unique perspectives. We are an inclusive affirmative action Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We consider applicants without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, present or past history of intellectual, learning, mental, or physical disability (including but not limited to blindness) unless AIRCO determines that such disability prevents performance of the work involved, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.
Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women, marginalized genders and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At AIRCO we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles
This position requires access to technology, software and other information that is subject to governmental access control restrictions, due to export controls, security classification and/or designation as Controlled Unclassified Information. Employment in this position is conditioned on the candidate's ability to obtain and maintain appropriate government authorization to access technology or information, to the extent required, including without limitation a security clearance, export license, or other documentation required to establish authorization to receive access to such items technology or information.
We may delay commencement of employment, rescind an offer of employment, terminate employment, and/or modify job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and/or access to Company facilities and information systems, as we deem appropriate, in order to ensure compliance with applicable government access control restrictions.
I consent to transfer my data to Air Company in the U.S. and to its use in accordance with the Air Company Privacy Policy, and I opt in to receiving information from Air Company. Air Company does not sell or share personal information to third parties within the meanings given under applicable laws.
See All 19 Design Lead Jobs in Pennsylvania
Find roles in Pennsylvania that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Design Lead JobsDesign Lead Jobs by City in Pennsylvania
Where Pennsylvania roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Design Lead Job Market in Pennsylvania
A snapshot from current Pennsylvania openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Energy
- Manufacturing
What Pennsylvania Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in design lead jobs across Pennsylvania.
- Portfolio demonstrating end-to-end design ownership and team leadership across multiple shipped products
- Bachelor's degree in graphic design, interaction design, human-computer interaction, or a related field
- Five or more years of design experience with at least two years in a lead or senior role
- Proficiency in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and collaborative product development tools
- Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor designers while aligning work to business objectives
- Experience partnering with product management and engineering teams in agile development environments
Design Lead Jobs in Pennsylvania: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a design lead in Pennsylvania?
Becoming a design lead in Pennsylvania typically requires a bachelor's degree in design, human-computer interaction, or a related discipline, followed by several years of hands-on design work before moving into a leadership role. Pennsylvania does not issue a state license for design leads, so hiring decisions center on portfolio strength, demonstrated team leadership, and domain expertise. Employers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh often prefer candidates with experience in regulated industries like healthcare, financial services, or media.
How much do design leads make in Pennsylvania?
Design leads in Pennsylvania earn a median of about $97,450 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $65,470 for the lowest 10% to over $149,940 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire design leads in Pennsylvania?
Employers hiring design leads in Pennsylvania right now include GE Vernova, Airco, and Eaton, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Pennsylvania's concentration of large healthcare networks, financial institutions, and media companies means design lead roles here frequently involve complex product ecosystems and multi-team coordination.
Which Pennsylvania cities have the most design lead jobs?
Philadelphia, Erie, and Charleroi have the most design lead openings in Pennsylvania. Philadelphia leads because of its dense cluster of healthcare systems, fintech firms, and media companies, while Pittsburgh's growing technology and robotics sector drives demand there, and suburban hubs like Malvern and Conshohocken attract openings from financial services and enterprise software firms headquartered along the Pennsylvania Main Line.
Are there remote design lead jobs in Pennsylvania?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 67% of design lead openings tied to Pennsylvania are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting the digital nature of the work. Strategic and UX-focused design lead roles tend to be the most remote-friendly, while positions tied to physical product development, brand environments, or on-site studio teams more often require a regular in-person presence.
How can I get hired as a design lead in Pennsylvania with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is moving into a design lead role from a senior individual contributor position after building a portfolio that shows ownership of a full design process. In Pennsylvania, large employers like Comcast, Independence Blue Cross, and PNC Bank run structured associate and rotational programs that give early-career designers exposure to cross-functional projects. Adjacent roles such as senior UX designer, design systems contributor, or product designer with mentorship responsibilities are common stepping stones, and completing a recognized UX certification strengthens candidacy when formal leadership experience is limited.
Where can I find and apply to design lead jobs in Pennsylvania?
You can find and apply to design lead jobs in Pennsylvania on Migrate Mate, which lists current Pennsylvania openings updated regularly. Find the roles that fit your experience and apply directly to the ones that match.
See All 19 Design Lead Jobs in Pennsylvania
Find roles in Pennsylvania that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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