Role Overview
We’re seeking an experienced Senior Process Engineer to assist in designing, constructing, and scaling our first-of-a-kind rare earth metallization demonstration plant. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of scaling chemical or metallurgical processes from lab to commercial scale, collaborating with external engineering firms, and successfully managing plant construction projects.
Qualifications
- Typically 5+ years’ experience (flexible) as a Process Engineer, Project Engineer, or related engineering roles in industrial plant construction and operations
- Demonstrated expertise in scaling up chemical, metallurgical, or electrochemical processes
- Proven ability to manage and communicate effectively with engineering firms and EPC contractors
- Strong familiarity with developing and reviewing critical engineering deliverables such as PFDs, P&IDs, mass/energy balances, process control strategies, HAZOP analyses, and regulatory documentation
- Background in high-temperature processes, electrochemical cells, molten salt systems, or rare earth metallurgical processing preferred
- Understanding of relevant regulatory, environmental, and permitting frameworks for chemical and metallurgical plants
Role Expectations
- Lead the scale-up from lab and pilot-scale to commercial-scale rare earth metallization processes
- Translate technical research outcomes into detailed engineering and process design packages for external EPC partners
- Collaborate closely with engineering and construction firms to ensure timely, safe, and cost-effective plant construction and commissioning
- Manage custom equipment design, fabrication, and installation through third-party manufacturing partners
- Drive process optimization for efficiency, cost reduction, environmental compliance, and safety improvements
- Anticipate potential challenges and proactively implement solutions
- Thrive in an agile, high-accountability environment, displaying initiative and independent problem-solving
Location
- Full-time, onsite at our headquarters in San Francisco, CA
- Relocation assistance provided if necessary
- Visa sponsorship available
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary (adjustable based on experience)
- Generous stock grants
- Weekly food stipend
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Visa sponsorship if required
Additional Requirements
- Must be willing to work from our headquarters in San Francisco
- Must be comfortable with extended hours and weekend work as necessary
About Us
Solcoa Industries has developed the first truly carbon-zero, American rare earth metal production process. We’re already domestically producing rare earth metals (primarily Nd, Dy, and Tb), significantly reducing reliance on Chinese exports. As we rapidly scale up production, we’re seeking motivated talent to expand our dedicated team.
Our Mission
In the 1950s, the United States transformed the rare earths industry through relentless innovation, creating today’s vital market. Today, however, we produce nearly none of our rare earth consumption, with Chinese dominance compromising our independence through environmentally destructive processes. The critical challenge isn’t the supply—it’s downstream processing, where China now exerts political leverage.
At Solcoa, we’re committed to changing this narrative. We’re a young, dynamic team driven to innovate and decarbonize the rare earth metals supply chain. Our mission is clear: rapid innovation, environmental stewardship, and American independence.