Pilot Plant Engineer

Saltworks Technologies Inc; Richmond; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Richmond is seeking a Pilot Plant Engineer to oversee and optimize pilot-scale plants. The role involves fieldwork, operations, and engineering support. Ideal candidates should have a degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering and 2-3 years of experience. The company offers a competitive compensation package and a collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

RRSP matching

Education allowance

Company events and social activities

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of post-graduate experience in an industrial environment.
• Strong safety mindset and commitment to a clean work area.
• Quick learning ability with high standards for quality work.

Responsibilities

• Operate pilot-scale industrial water treatment and lithium refining systems.
• Collect, analyze, and manage data, including wet lab testing.
• Learn about inorganic water chemistry and treatment processes.
• Contribute to completion reports and process improvements.
• Perform basic maintenance tasks.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Time management skills

Hands-on experience with tools

Education

Degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Saltworks Technologies is a global leader in advanced industrial desalination and lithium refining. Our innovative machines produce clean water from high-strength industrial discharges and refine lithium to support the energy transition. We offer meaningful and exciting work in a collaborative environment, driven by innovation and problem-solving. Saltworks is a 2025 Fast50 Company and EY Entrepreneur of the Year award winner - a testament to our growth, financial performance, and positive contributions.

The role:

Join our team as a Pilot Plant Engineer and play a key role in overseeing and optimizing our cutting‑edge pilot‑scale plants. This position offers a dynamic mix of fieldwork, factory operations, and engineering design support. Field assignments may last several months at customer sites, where you’ll be backed by a strong and supportive team at headquarters. You will advance your technical skills while working closely with our experienced senior leaders and subject matter experts. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and enjoy hands‑on work, this role is for you.

Key responsibilities:

• Operate pilot‑scale industrial water treatment and lithium refining systems (training provided).
• Collect, analyze, and manage data, including wet lab testing and interpretation.
• Build knowledge in inorganic water chemistry, treatment processes, and lithium refining with guidance from in‑house experts.
• Learn and apply an understanding of Saltworks’ products, processes, and pilot plant infrastructure.
• Contribute to completion reports and provide feedback for process and design improvements.
• Perform basic maintenance tasks, supported by skilled tradespeople for complex work.
• Strengthen your technical and communication skills through work with engineering drawings, documentation, mass balances, and troubleshooting.

You will be a great fit if you have:

• A valid passport and the ability to travel internationally to customer sites without restrictions.
• A degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, with 2‑3 years of post‑graduate experience in an industrial environment.
• A strong safety mindset and commitment to maintaining a clean, organized work area.
• Solid mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Hands‑on experience with tools, industrial instruments, and lab equipment.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• A quick learning ability and a high standard for quality work.
• A collaborative, can‑do attitude and willingness to pitch in wherever needed.

Why join Saltworks?

We have an outstanding team that is passionate about innovation and solving key environmental challenges facing our planet. Join a team pioneering the future of water and lithium. Some of our customers include world‑leading electric vehicle makers, semiconductor firms, mining companies, agriculture firms, and more!

We offer:

• A collaborative and rewarding work environment.
• A competitive compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, RRSP matching, life insurance, AD&D coverage, and an education allowance.
• A culture that supports safety, innovation, learning, diversity, and teamwork.
• Fun social activities and company events.

How to apply:

If you would like to be a part of a globally recognized team, please submit your resume (cover letters are not required). While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications are considered confidential.

Salary

Negotiable based on your experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

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Location: 13800 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, BC V6W 1A8