Senior Chemical Engineer 1 (8603A)

Applied Research Associates, Inc; Panama City (FL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc.'s Better Fuels Group is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to own key process engineering and project execution activities that bring cutting-edge renewable fuels technologies to life. You will bridge pilot testing and commercial implementation, leveraging refinery, renewable fuels, and petrochemical experience.

You will develop PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs, review EPC designs, and support scale-up while ensuring process safety and effective

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.
• Creative problem solver with a practical mindset and strong communication skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% (domestic/international).

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

Process design fundamentals

Simulation & heat/material balances

DCS/SIS proficiency

HAZOPs & process safety

Startup/commissioning experience

Communication skills

Travel willingness up to 10%

Education

B.S. in Chemical Engineering

Job description

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.