Thermodynamic Model Developer

Tribonet; New Jersey; On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

OLI Systems in New Jersey seeks a Specialist in Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics to advance high‑fidelity predictive models within our Research and Database team. You will tackle industrial challenges and help deploy state‑of‑the‑art thermodynamic, transport, and interfacial models across chemical and electrochemical systems.

The role combines rigorous fundamentals with strategic vision, collaborating with researchers, engineers, and partners to expand our portfolio, guide model development,

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Postdoctoral experience in academia or industry preferred.
• Proven research expertise in thermodynamics and physical properties of electrolyte and/or non-electrolyte containing systems or electrochemical corrosion modeling.
• Experience solving phase and chemical equilibrium problems using EOS and activity coefficient models.
• Strong fundamentals-based modeling: reaction kinetics, heat and mass transfer, and reactor/separation design.
• Industrial experience across oil & gas, renewables, metals/mining, and water treatment.

Responsibilities

• Model Development: Advance thermodynamic, transport, and interfacial models for high fidelity predictions.
• Project Leadership: Guide development of the project portfolio and align with industry needs.
• Customization and Parameterization: Tailor models for industrial systems to enhance predictive capabilities.
• Client Collaboration: Work with clients to meet simulation needs and provide guidance on model use.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Partner with researchers, process engineers, and software developers.
• Research Partnerships: Engage with universities and national labs on joint studies.

Job description

An educational platform on tribology — the science of friction, wear and lubrication

Who is it for

Engineers, researchers, students and industry professionals

Join Our Innovative Team:

At OLI Systems, we’re transforming the future of chemistry modeling. Our mission goes beyond developing software, we’re redefining how chemical process simulations are created and executed. We’re seeking a Specialist in Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics who’s driven to advance and deploy high-fidelity predictive models. As a member of our Research and Database team, you will tackle real-world industrial challenges, model next-generation solutions with precision, and make a lasting impact across a wide range of global industries.

You will work on advancing our state-of-the‑art physical property and electrochemical models to achieve unparalleled accuracy in predicting industrially relevant thermodynamic, transport, and interfacial phenomena across complex chemical and electrochemical systems. This role requires technical proficiency and vision in a rapidly evolving field. We’re looking for someone who is not only well‑versed in the science but also excited to drive innovative strategy and contribute to our expansive research portfolio.

About OLI

Leaders in Chemistry Solutions, OLI stands as a beacon in the software development landscape, mastering complex chemical phenomena. Our advanced process modeling solutions have redefined problem‑solving in over 35 countries, influencing how over 500 enterprises and academic institutions maximize asset lifecycle. At OLI, our commitment to innovation and sustainability drives every endeavor, making us leaders in industrial digital transformation. Our investments in pioneering technologies such as real‑time electrolyte chemistry insights, automated systems, and cloud‑based analytics are crafting new benchmarks in the industry.

Why You’re Vital to Our Mission:

As a key member of our team, you’ll provide leadership in the development of our project portfolio, identifying opportunities for new research and model development. We need your strong ability and interest to work on applications driven by abstract problems and develop creative out‑of‑the‑box solutions. Your expertise will be essential in ensuring that our models meet the highest standards of accuracy and applicability, and in guiding collaborations with research partners to address critical societal challenges such as sustainability, asset reliability, and water treatment innovation.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Model Development: Advance thermodynamic, transport, and interfacial phenomena models to achieve the highest possible fidelity in predicting thermodynamic and corrosion behaviors within OLI’s simulation software platform.
• Project Leadership: Provide technical expertise to guide the development of our project portfolio, identifying opportunities, and ensuring alignment with industry needs.
• Customization and Parameterization: Tailor and optimize models for industrial systems to enhance their predictive capabilities in key sectors such as oil and gas, metals and mining, power generation, and water treatment.
• Client Collaboration: Work closely with clients to ensure our modeling solutions meet their unique simulation needs and provide expert guidance on model application and interpretation.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with a team of physical property researchers, process system engineers, and software developers to drive innovation and solve complex problems.
• Research Partnership: Engage with universities and national laboratories on joint theoretical and experimental studies that tackle important societal issues, particularly in sustainability and asset integrity.

Educational Background:

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Postdoctoral experience in academia or industry is preferred.

Professional Expertise:

• Proven research expertise in thermodynamics and physical properties of electrolyte and/or non-electrolyte containing systems or electrochemical corrosion modeling.
• Proven research expertise in solving phase and chemical equilibrium problems, including vapor-liquid-solid phases, using various types of equations of state and activity coefficient models.
• Demonstrated strong background in fundamentals‑based modeling, particularly in the areas of reaction kinetics, heat and mass transfer in unit operations, and design for advanced reactors or separation processes.
• Experience in mechanistic model development and the application of simulation in key industrial verticals such as oil and gas, renewables, metals and mining, and water treatment.

Technical Skills:

• Strong background in mathematical model development, numerical methods, and scientific programming (e.g.: C++, Python, MATLAB,
• Fortran).Experience with process simulation platforms (e.g.: APSEN, HYSYS, Pro-II, OLI)Experience with AI/ML applications (i.e.: Hybrid, PINNs).
• Expertise in regression analysis, data interpretation, and model parameterization.
• Extensive experience in analyzing and modeling electrolyte and thermophysical properties for various scientific applications.
• Transport and fluid flow modeling experience a plus.
• An opportunity to be a part of a groundbreaking team that is redefining industrial chemistry
• modeling.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.
• Competitive compensation package, including incentive base.

Equal Opportunity Employer

OLI Systems is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

Applicants will be evaluated through a structured, rubric‑based interview process to ensure consistency and fairness. OLI supports equitable career progression. Advancement decisions are guided by consistent evaluation criteria and regular performance conversations.