Combustion Engineer / Scientist

Sigma Earth; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ERG seeks a Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join our expanding technical team. You will start with hands-on execution and quickly take ownership of complex combustion projects, working with environmental scientists, engineers, and EPA interfaces.

The successful candidate will lead design, evaluation, and operation of combustion systems, collect emissions data, and ensure safety and QA throughout trials. A BS in ME/ChE/Env disciplines and 2–10 years of related experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, or a related discipline.
• 2-10 years of experience in a research or testing environment with exposure to combustion systems.
• Demonstrated experience implementing safety protocols, including authoring safety guidance documents.
• Strong technical proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word, data acquisition systems, PLC programming, and industrial control configurations.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and operate complex systems such as furnaces.
• Skilled in the use of hand tools for equipment installation, maintenance, and repair.
• Solid understanding of combustion principles, including fuel stoichiometry and criteria pollutants.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, equipment documentation, and laboratory procedures.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Experience applying EPA air emissions methodologies.
• Proven ability to write technical documentation, including safety plans, operational procedures, facility manuals, and technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, evaluate, design, and operate advanced combustion systems
• Collaborate with environmental scientists, engineers, and technical specialists to support combustion source measurements for the EPA
• Diagnose and resolve operational issues within combustion facilities, including control systems, replacement part sourcing, and repair coordination
• Configure sampling equipment and collect emissions data in accordance with EPA methodologies (e.g., Method 5)
• Design and implement sampling systems, including continuous emissions monitoring technologies such as gas analyzers, FTIR, and particle measurement instruments
• Analyze and review data to ensure alignment with project quality objectives and identify opportunities for process improvement
• Work directly with EPA personnel through technical meetings and operational initiatives
• Maintain accurate handwritten and electronic records in compliance with records management standards
• Execute all work in accordance with established safety and quality assurance protocols

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Industrial automation

Data acquisition systems

Excel

Word

Safety protocol development

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Technology

Tools

PLC programming

Industrial controls

Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

We are seeking a highly motivated Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join our expanding technical team. This role is ideal for a driven professional with strong academic training in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field, who is eager to take ownership of complex projects and contribute to impactful environmental and combustion research.

The successful candidate will begin with hands-on technical execution and will quickly have opportunities to lead projects, shape technical direction, and support the growth and development of the team.

Job Description:

• Troubleshoot, evaluate, design, and operate advanced combustion systems
• Collaborate with environmental scientists, engineers, and technical specialists to support combustion source measurements for the EPA
• Diagnose and resolve operational issues within combustion facilities, including control systems, replacement part sourcing, and repair coordination
• Configure sampling equipment and collect emissions data in accordance with EPA methodologies (e.g., Method 5)
• Design and implement sampling systems, including continuous emissions monitoring technologies such as gas analyzers, FTIR, and particle measurement instruments
• Analyze and review data to ensure alignment with project quality objectives and identify opportunities for process improvement
• Work directly with EPA personnel through technical meetings and operational initiatives
• Maintain accurate handwritten and electronic records in compliance with records management standards
• Execute all work in accordance with established safety and quality assurance protocols

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution
• 2-10 years of experience in a research or testing environment with exposure to combustion systems
• Demonstrated experience implementing safety protocols, including authoring safety guidance documents
• Strong technical proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word, data acquisition systems, PLC programming, and industrial control configurations
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and operate complex systems such as furnaces
• Skilled in the use of hand tools for equipment installation, maintenance, and repair
• Solid understanding of combustion principles, including fuel stoichiometry and criteria pollutants
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, equipment documentation, and laboratory procedures
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Experience applying EPA air emissions methodologies
• Proven ability to write technical documentation, including safety plans, operational procedures, facility manuals, and technical reports
• Occasional lifting up to 35 lbs. (< 5%)
• Climbing (< 10%)
• Regular use of industrial PPE, including safety glasses, protective footwear, lab coats, and gloves (~60%)
• Limited exposure to hot or cold environments (< 5%)
• Work in moderate industrial noise environments (< 10%)

ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience.

ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com. ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment.

If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at [e-mail] or call [phone].

ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.