Job Summary
We are looking for a hands-on, self-starting Process Engineer I to join our team and become a core contributor to Mycocycle's experimental and modeling efforts. This is a bench-to-scale role: you will design and execute experiments, build and maintain custom test apparatus, analyze data, and communicate findings in clear technical reports. You will also play an important supporting role in transforming our modeling efforts into tangible equipment and in developing mass and energy balances as we scale the process.
This role is ideal for a mechanical, chemical, or biosystems engineer who is equally comfortable running a spreadsheet model and getting their hands dirty building lab-scale testing apparatus. We are looking for someone who takes ownership of problems, improvises solutions, and thrives in a fast-moving startup environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lab Experimentation & Characterization
- Design, execute, and document experiments to characterize substrate and process properties
- Build, instrument, and maintain custom test rigs and experimental apparatus using available lab materials and shop tools
- Troubleshoot equipment issues and adapt protocols on the fly as needed
- Maintain lab notebooks, experimental logs, and SOP's with a high standard of rigor
Data Analysis & Technical Reporting
- Analyze experimental data using Excel or equivalent tools; apply statistical reasoning to assess data quality and draw defensible conclusions
- Produce clear, well-organized technical reports and memos summarizing experimental results, methods, and recommendations
- Prepare visual summaries and presentations to communicate findings to the internal team and external partners
Modeling & Process Analysis
- Support or own development of 1D thermal models for fermentation vessels, including governing heat and mass transfer equations
- Assist in developing and maintaining mass and energy balances for unit operation at bench and pilot scale
- Contribute to parameter sensitivity analyses and model calibration workflows as the dataset grows
Cross-Function Collaboration
- Work closely with the Director of Process Engineering and broader technical team to align experimental priorities with scale-up goals
- Contribute to vendor evaluations, equipment specifications, and capital project planning as process knowledge matures
Qualifications
Required
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biosystems Engineering, or a closely related field
- Solid foundation in thermodynamics, heat mass transfer, and fluid mechanics
- Comfort working in a hands-on lab environment -- building apparatus, running experiments, troubleshooting instrumentation
- Proficiency in modeling software for data analysis, modeling, and visualization
- Strong technical writing skills; ability to produce clear, well-structured reports
- Self-directed work style with the ability to manage tasks independently and adapt when priorities shift
Preferred
- Experience with 1D PDE-based thermal or transport models (analytical or numerical)
- Familiarity with solid-state fermentation, packed bed reactors, or biological process systems
- Experience with DAQ systems, pressure or humidity sensors, or similar lab instrumentation
- Prior internship, co-op, or research experience in a lab or pilot-scale environment
What We Offer
- A chance to do foundational process science on a technology platform that matters -- fungal bioconversion of hard-to-recycle waste streams
- Direct mentorship from experienced engineers and exposure to the full arc of process scale-up, from bench to pilot to commercial
- A collaborative mission-driven team where your contributions are visible and valued
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Real ownership: this role is not a support function, you will shape the direction of our experimental and modeling programs
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $90,000 - $110,000 annually
- Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k)-retirement savings option.
Work for Hire & Confidentiality
All work is for hire and is the property of Mycocycle, Inc. Non-disclosure and work for hire agreements will be required.
Work Authorization & Relocation
Mycocycle is currently unable to offer sponsorship for employment visas (including H-1B). Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future need for visa sponsorship. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.
Mycocycle, Inc. is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
