R&D Engineer

Lydian overview

Lydian is a technology development company focused on producing the cheapest carbon-neutral fuels and chemicals on the planet. Our process replaces oil and gas refining with fully electrified, modular, and highly efficient reactor systems that enable the upgrading of captured CO2 into a range of carbon-neutral fuels and chemicals. Our initial focus is on the production of the cheapest and most scalable CO2-derived aviation fuel.

Lydian is backed by top climate investors including Congruent Ventures, Galvanize Climate Solutions, Union Square Ventures, Voyager Ventures, Grok Ventures, and Overlap Holdings. We are building a motivated, diverse, and collaborative team that is passionate about addressing the growing climate crisis and is committed to excellence in their work. In particular, we look for tenacious people that are energized by solving the hardest, highest impact problems that come their way.

Position overview

Lydian is looking for an R&D Engineer to guide and execute the experimental strategy for our core reactor systems. As R&D Engineer, you will identify and address key risks as we scale up from lab to pilot. You will get things done in the lab rigorously, safely, and with a sense of urgency. You will interface with engineering leaders to develop experimental methods and testing strategies and communicate your work to the broader team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and operate catalytic reactor systems at the lab and pilot scales
• Design and execute test protocols for reactor cells and systems to validate designs
• Document and present experimental test plans/results across various R&D and engineering initiatives
• Develop a deep understanding of our reactor architecture, sub-component design, and testing platforms (software and process design)
• Troubleshoot and resolve software, electronic, fluid handling, and mechanical equipment issues on test equipment
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for key assembly processes and test platforms
• With the help of software engineers, automate data analysis and promote data-based decision-making

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in chemical, mechanical, systems engineering or similar
• Experience with heterogeneous catalysis is a plus
• Experience designing experiments to answer specific scientific questions
• Ability to apply chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and heat and mass transport, to analyze experimental data and solve problems
• Hands-on experience in assembly and testing of laboratory systems such as reactors, electrolyzers, or other process equipment
• Sound understanding of engineering fundamentals across chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering disciplines
• Enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, is energized by challenges, and relishes in getting the job done
• Prior startup experience is a plus
• Alignment with our mission, vision, and virtues

Company culture and benefits

• Challenging, collaborative, and meaningful work and an important voice in company development
• Competitive salary and title commensurate with experience
• Meaningful equity compensation
• Flexible PTO and expectation that all employees take significant time off to rest, recharge, and enjoy life outside work
• Excellent health, vision, and dental insurance with 100% of premiums covered
• 401(k) with company match