Analytical Chemical Process Prototyping Engineer

RSCH AND DEV ENGR 2 TX (004757)

UCPath Position ID: TBD_1104

Position Description History/Status

Approved Date:

9/9/2025 8:25:39 PM

Date Last Edited:

9/9/2025 8:25:35 PM

Last Action Effective Date:

Organization Details

Business Unit (Location):

LACMP

Organization Code:

1130O

Organization:

HENRY SAMUELI SCHOOL ENGR & APPL SCIENCE

Division Code:

1131D

Division:

ENGINEERING & APPLIED SCIEN DIV

Department:

012100 - INSTITUTE FOR CARBON MANAGEMENT

Position Details

UCPath Position Number:

TBD_1104

Position Description ID

172185

UC Payroll Title:

RSCH AND DEV ENGR 2 TX (004757)

Personnel Program

Professional and Support Staff (PSS)

Salary Grade:

STEPS

Job Code FLSA:

Exempt

Union Code (Collective Bargaining Unit):

99: Non-Represented (PPSM)

Employee Relations Code:

E: All Others - Not Confidential

Employee Class (Appt Type):

4 - Staff: Limited

Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)

1

SUPERVISION

UCPath Reports to Position Number:

40962001

Reports to Payroll Title:

RSCH AND DEV ENGR 3 TX

UCPath Department Head Position Number:

40061059

Department Head Payroll Title:

PROF-AY-B/E/E

GENERAL SUPERVISION - Indicates that the incumbent develops procedures for performance of variety of duties; or performs complex duties within established policy guidelines.

POSITION SUMMARY

ICM is seeking an Analytical Chemical Process Prototyping Engineer to join a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and scientists developing sustainable and carbon removal technologies to be commercialized on a global scale. The analytical chemical process prototyping engineer will be responsible for chemical analysis, design, prototype development, and optimization of chemistry, reaction kinetics, process, and plant design, across scales (bench, pilot, commercial), and ensuring successful operation while adhering to all applicable safety and environmental standards and regulations. The position will collaborate closely with broader teams of diverse subject matter experts, who are impact- and schedule-driven and results-focused.

The Institute for Carbon Management (ICM) is a cross-campus technology-translation entity at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). ICM translates pioneering carbon management strategies from the laboratory/bench-scale to pre-commercial/commercial-scale devices, prototypes, and software solutions. ICM's activities span two major focus areas:

(1) Technologies for CO2 removal (from the atmosphere and the ocean), utilization, and avoidance

(2) Technologies for creating new supply chains, and processing approaches for critical materials and elements (e.g., Li, Ni, Co, Mn, Mo) that are foundational to accelerating the clean energy transition, as well as reducing the carbon footprint of extractive processes.

ICM is organized into action teams that are convergent, agile, and world-class. Prominently, these action teams have enabled ICM-born technologies to be awarded the NRG COSIA Carbon XPRIZE, and the 2021 Liveability Challenge, among others. ICM's technologies are now being commercialized via spin-out companies, including CarbonBuilt Inc., Concrete-AI Inc., and Equatic Inc.

Process Development & Optimization

1. Develop and optimize chemical processes and equipment designs through prototyping, experimental testing, and process trials. 2. Troubleshoot chemical process operations and implement practical solutions. 3. Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in processes, design, equipment, and operational procedures.

50%

Process Design, Documentation & Safety

1. Develop conceptual and detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), including major equipment, feed, product, recycle, and utility streams. 2. Develop process control strategies and coordinate with subject matter experts on material selection. 3. Prepare design basis documents, operating procedures (startup, shutdown, normal operation, emergency), and safety documentation. 4. Participate in or lead design and safety review meetings.

30%

Laboratory & Analytical Work

1. Conduct experimental analyses with rigor and maintain lab equipment. 2. Advise and train other users on the proper use of lab equipment. 3. Prepare data collection and sampling plans

20%

•

Performs other duties as assigned.

•

Complies with all policies and standards.

•

Complies with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Principles of Community.

•

This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree

in both Chemical Engineering and Chemistry or equivalent combination of education and experience

Required

Master's Degree

in both Chemical Engineering and Chemistry.

Preferred

At least 2 years or more

Experience in chemical process design and analytical chemistry.

Required

Experienced with GC, SEM, XRF analytical analysis.

Required

Experience with electrochemical systems and voltametric analysis.

Required

Experience with molten metal chemical reactors for methane pyrolysis to form elemental carbon.

Required

Proficiency with PFD and P&ID reviews

Required

Drafting experience or familiarity with CAD packages like AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS or DraftSight.

Required

A self-starter who collaborates effectively, communicates clearly, and drives progress.

Required

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.

LOCATION AND PHYSICAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, MENTAL (PEM) REQUIREMENTS

Environment and Work Location Information

Environment Type:

Non-Clinical Setting

Location Setting:

Campus

Location:

420 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095

•

Laptop, monitor, and keyboard.

•

General office supplies: desk, chair, notepads, and pens.

Standing/Walking

X

X

Sitting

X

X

Bending/Stooping

X

Squatting/Kneeling

X

Climbing

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 0-25 lbs

X

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 26-50 lbs

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull over 50 lbs

X

Physical requirements other

X

Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes

X

X

Loud noise levels

X

Marked changes in humidity or temperature

X

Microwave/Radiation

X

Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment

X

Exposures other

X

Sustained attention and concentration

X

X

Complex problem solving/reasoning

X

X

Ability to organize & prioritize

X

X

Communication skills

X

X

Numerical skills

X

X

Mental demands other

X

X

Classification 3:  Position in which exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues is not part of the position description. The normal routine task involves no exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues and the employee can decline to perform tasks which involve a perceived risk without retribution.