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Post Doc Research Associate – Chemical Process Modeling & Analysis

Overview

Our expert staff provide multi-disciplinary solutions to complex energy and environmental issues. Key capabilities include science (chemical and mechanical). We employ a systems perspective that includes, discovery technology development and scale-up as well as economic, regulatory, and market acceptance issues necessary for successful technology commercialization. EP&MD focuses on three mission contributions: Clean Fossil Energy, Electricity Infrastructure, & Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.


Responsibilities

The Advanced Energy Systems group (AES) is focused on applied research and development in the areas of chemical conversions, applied advanced materials, and the development of novel processes. The AES group is currently seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate – Chemical Process Modeling & Analysis to provide techno-economic assessments (TEA) and life-cycle analyses (LCA) of a variety of technologies, including carbon capture and utilization, negative emission technologies, advanced separations, and thermochemical and biochemical conversions of biomass to biofuels. The qualified candidate will support the development of process models, economic evaluations, and life-cycle assessments that will be used to make recommendations to PNNL projects, industrial partners, and the Department of Energy (DOE). The process and economic models range from analyzing unit operations to full systems (e.g., conceptual commercial-scale flowsheets for chemical processes). Aspen Plus® and CHEMCAD are the primary flowsheet development tools used. Oral and written reporting of research results is expected with a focus toward publications in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences. 

 

Responsibilities include the following:

  • Supporting the development of single unit or plant-scale designs for conceptual commercial processes.
  • Supporting the interactions with experimental staff to describe specific process and economic research goals.
  • Supporting projects or tasks, with the responsibility for designing, conducting, and reporting analysis results.
  • Preparing and presenting complex technical reports.
  • Working independently, taking initiative, and collaborating on team projects.


Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • An advanced degree in Chemical Engineering.
  • Experience in chemical process development and the associated economic analyses.
  • Expertise with Aspen Plus®, CHEMCAD, or an equivalent flowsheet modeling tool.
  • A demonstrated understanding of thermodynamics, kinetics, process design, heat and mass transfer, chemical separations, and unit operations.
  • Expertise in life cycle analysis and working knowledge of relevant tools, such as OpenLCA, SimaPro, or GREET.
  • Excellent technical writing skills and a track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Familiarity with current technologies for point-source direct-air carbon capture
  • Familiarity with common practices in the chemicals industry


Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not Applicable.


Additional Information

Not Applicable.


Testing Designated Position

Not a Testing Designated Position.


About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
 

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.


Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.

 

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

 

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.


Drug Free Workplace

PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

 

If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use.  Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug.  If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn. 


HSPD-12 PIV Credential Requirement

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential.  To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.


Mandatory Requirements

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.


Rockstar Rewards

Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave**, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

* Research Associates excluded.

**Once eligibility requirements are met.

 

Click Here For Rockstar Rewards


Minimum Salary

USD $69,000.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary

USD $119,100.00/Yr.