Senior Chemical Engineer 1 (8603A)

Applied Research Associates, Inc.; Panama City (FL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates’ Better Fuels Group is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to own process engineering and project execution for renewable fuels technologies moving from pilot to commercial scale. You will develop PFDs/P&IDs, review EPC deliverables, and design major equipment for renewable fuel systems, while enabling scale-up and startup optimization.

Requirements include a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and 5–10+ years in refinery, petrochemical, or renewable fuels design.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in Chemical Engineering.
• 5–10+ years of experience in refinery, petrochemical, or renewable fuels design or EPC.
• Strong understanding of process design fundamentals, simulation, and heat/material balances.
• Proficiency with DCS/SIS systems and process control integration.
• Experience with HAZOPs, process safety, and startup/commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver engineering data packages (PFDs, P&IDs, H&MBs, equipment specs).
• Review and guide EPC contractor design deliverables to ensure alignment with technology requirements.
• Design and specify major process equipment for renewable fuel and petrochemical systems.
• Support scale-up and commercial implementation of novel renewable processes.
• Create standard operating procedures, startup manuals, and training materials.
• Participate in HAZOP reviews, commissioning, and post-startup optimization.

Skills

Chemical engineering knowledge

Process design fundamentals

Simulation experience

Communication skills

Willingness to travel

Education

B.S. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

DCS/SIS systems

Job description

Are you an experienced chemical or process engineer ready to help bring renewable fuels technology to commercial scale? Join Applied Research Associates’ Better Fuels Group (BFG) — an industry leader in advanced biofuels and sustainable energy — and be part of the team driving the next generation of clean fuel innovation.

We’re looking for a hands-on, creative engineer with strong process design experience to help bridge the gap between pilot testing and full commercial implementation. If you’ve got refinery, renewable diesel, or petrochemical experience — and love solving tough engineering challenges — this is your opportunity to make a global impact.

What You’ll Do

As a Senior Process Engineer, you’ll take ownership of key process engineering and project execution activities that bring cutting-edge renewable fuels technologies to life. You will:

• Develop and deliver engineering data packages (PFDs, P&IDs, H&MBs, equipment specs).
• Review and guide EPC contractor design deliverables to ensure alignment with technology requirements.
• Design and specify major process equipment for renewable fuel and petrochemical systems.
• Support scale-up and commercial implementation of novel renewable processes.
• Create standard operating procedures, startup manuals, and training materials.
• Participate in HAZOP reviews, commissioning, and post-startup optimization.

What We’re Looking For

• B.S. or higher in Chemical Engineering.
• 5–10+ years of experience in refinery, petrochemical, or renewable fuels design or EPC.
• Strong understanding of process design fundamentals, simulation, and heat/material balances.
• Proficiency with DCS/SIS systems and process control integration.
• Experience with HAZOPs, process safety, and startup/commissioning.
• Creative problem solver with a practical mindset and strong communication skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% (domestic/international).

Why Join ARA’s Better Fuels Group

• Work on commercial renewable fuel projects that are already being built and operated around the world.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and business leaders developing proven, patented clean-energy technologies.
• Enjoy a culture of innovation, integrity, and balance — where your ideas and initiative are valued.
• Competitive pay, excellent benefits, and opportunities for growth within a respected, employee-owned company.

Ready to make an impact?

If you’re excited about sustainable fuels, process design, and bringing technology to life, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and help shape the future of clean energy.

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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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