Chemical Engineer I - Energy and Energetics Lab (PEEL)

Job Summary

Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) is seeking a Level I Chemical Engineer to support the PARI PEEL Lab. In this role, you will apply foundational chemical engineering principles while working with senior staff to design, test, and optimize chemical and energetic-material processes across laboratory, pilot, and full-scale operations.

You will contribute to the development of energetic production processes, precursor materials, and material-recycling methods. Key responsibilities include supporting lab and process operations; preparing technical and process documentation; implementing standard operating procedures; supporting quality assurance and quality control activities; conducting testing, sampling, data assessment, and process modeling; and maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance.

Working under the guidance of senior staff, you will develop process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation diagrams, process models, and technical reports. You will also assist with troubleshooting and root-cause analyses to identify process bottlenecks or malfunctions and help implement corrective actions. This role is ideal for an early-career engineer who is safety-minded, detail-oriented, collaborative, and interested in supporting applied research and development in chemical and energetic-material systems.

This position is contingent upon the award of a contract and continued contract funding.

At Purdue, you’ll join a community where unrivaled pride and unlimited potential are more than just words—they’re the foundation of how we work and grow, together. If you’re ready to help build a better world through research that matters, take the next step and join us on this path.

About Us

The Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) is a nonprofit entity that extends the reach and impact of Purdue University’s deep research strengths and top-ranked academic programs in engineering, agriculture, science and technology. PARI works to improve national security, microelectronics, infrastructure solutions and to accelerate critical technologies.

Through applied research and program personnel, state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, PARI significantly enhances Purdue’s ability to translate discoveries into innovative solutions and services for mission-oriented government, industry, NGO and foundation partners. PARI is an incubator for advanced development and transition of leading ideas and technology with potential for significant impact through large-scale prototypes, pilots, and startups.

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of one internship experience.

U.S. citizenship is required for this position.

Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance to be considered for this position. Maintaining this clearance is a continuous condition of employment. Failure to obtain or retain the required clearance may result in termination.

Preferred:

• Experience working with energetic materials.

Skills Required:

• Proficiency with CAD software, process simulation tools, and data-analysis software, such as Aspen, CHEMCAD, MATLAB, and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to assist with the design, testing, optimization, and documentation of chemical processes in laboratory, pilot, and full-scale operational environments.
• Ability to prepare process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation diagrams, standard operating procedures, safety protocols, test reports, lab documentation, technical reports, root-cause analyses, and written or oral presentations.
• Ability to conduct troubleshooting and root-cause analysis with guidance from senior staff.
• Strong technical writing, oral communication, time-management, organization, collaboration, and independent work skills.
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, manage priorities, and complete work according to established schedules and requirements.
• Commitment to lab and plant safety practices, environmental regulations, quality assurance and quality control requirements, and chemical and explosive-handling standards.
• Ability to work in a hazardous-material environment, including exposure to fumes, vapors, odors, toxic chemicals, heavy machinery, and biological and/or chemical materials.

Additional Information:

Purdue’s benefits summary
Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position

A background check will be required for employment in this position. Pre-employment checks are required for this position.
FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Career Stream

PARI Professional

Job Code #

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.