Process Development Engineer

DuPont; Sydney; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

DuPont's Process Development Engineer role focuses on advancing MEMCOR membrane and water treatment technology. This hands-on position combines pilot plant operation with engineering analysis to deliver data-driven product improvements.

You will work across lab, pilot-scale and field environments, translating test results into actionable recommendations while supporting safety, quality, and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to document results clearly.
• Ability to work independently and across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute and document pilot-scale membrane trials and validation studies.
• Support development and optimisation of water treatment processes and scale-up activities.
• Operate and maintain pilot facilities and equipment with a focus on safety and reliability.
• Investigate performance issues and provide corrective actions based on data analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Product Development, Commercial and Field Service teams.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Process Engineering or related discipline

Tools

UF/MBR/RO experience

Pilot-scale systems

PLC/SCADA

Job description

At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it's providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world.

Discover the many reasons the world's most talented people are choosing to work at DuPont. Why Join Us | DuPont CareersThe Process Development Engineer plays a key role in supporting the development and improvement of MEMCOR membrane and water treatment technologies.

The position combines hands-on pilot plant operation with engineering analysis and technical problem solving to generate data and insights that support product development, process optimisation, technology qualification and customer success. The role requires a practical engineer who is comfortable working across laboratory, pilot-scale and field environments and who can translate test results into meaningful technical recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

Pilot Testing and Technology Validation

Plan, execute and document pilot-scale membrane filtration trials. Support product validation, cleaning studies, technology qualification and field simulation testing programs.

Monitor and evaluate filtration performance, permeability, fouling behaviour, recovery, cleaning effectiveness and water quality impacts. Generate high-quality technical reports and recommendations based on test results. Maintain accurate records and test documentation.

Process Development and Engineering Support

Support development and optimisation of membrane-based water treatment processes. Conduct engineering investigations relating to membrane performance, process performance and operational reliability. Assist with scale-up and commercialisation of new products and technologies.

Support troubleshooting activities associated with pilot plants, test rigs and development equipment. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across pilot operations and testing systems.

Pilot Facility Operations

Operate, monitor and maintain pilot equipment, test systems and associated infrastructure.

Coordinate equipment preparation, commissioning and maintenance activities. Assist with instrumentation, controls, pumps, valves, dosing systems and pilot skid operation. Ensure pilot facilities are maintained in a safe, reliable and operational condition.

Product Performance Investigations

Investigate membrane performance issues, customer enquiries, returned modules and technical support requests. Support autopsy, cleaning and performance evaluation studies. Analyse operational and performance data to identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.

Collaboration and Project Support

Work closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Product Development, Commercial and Field Service teams. Participate in cross-functional project teams supporting new product development and product improvement initiatives. Support customer and field performance investigations where required.

Contribute technical input to project reviews, design reviews and technology assessments.

Safety and Compliance

Promote a strong safety culture and comply with all DuPont EHS requirements. Complete risk assessments, management of change activities and safe work procedures as required.

Ensure compliance with quality systems, engineering standards and operating procedures.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Process Engineering or related discipline.

2+ years engineering experience in water treatment, wastewater treatment, process engineering or related industrial environments. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with ultrafiltration (UF), membrane bioreactors (MBR), reverse osmosis (RO) or related membrane technologies.

Experience operating or supporting pilot-scale water treatment systems. Familiarity with PLC, HMI, SCADA or industrial instrumentation systems. Experience with technical reporting, data analysis and process troubleshooting.

Postgraduate qualification in water treatment or water engineering desirable

Equal Opportunity Statement

DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class.

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DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.