Process Engineer — Methane-to-Methanol Commercialization

Process Engineer — Methane-to-Methanol Commercialization

Woburn MA or Houston TX

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineer to lead engineering efforts on the commercialization of a first-of-a kind (FOAK) methane-to-methanol conversion technology. This is a technically demanding, high-ownership role suited to a mid-career engineer who brings demonstrated EPC project experience and is ready to apply that foundation to a novel, modular process system at the frontier of clean chemicals production.

The position spans the full project lifecycle — from FEED and detailed design through fabrication oversight, commissioning, and startup — and requires the ability to operate with both the rigor of an established EPC environment and the adaptability that early-stage technology commercialization demands.

About the technology

Emvolon Inc. ( is an innovative MIT climate-tech spin-off on a mission to convert greenhouse gas emissions into carbon-negative fuels and chemicals like green methanol and green ammonia. Leveraging our patented technology, we transform car engines into cost-effective, modular chemical plants. This groundbreaking approach enables us to support various industries, including maritime, aviation, energy, waste management and agriculture, in powering the global economy without emissions. At Emvolon, we have established strong industrial partnerships and commercial validation including binding contracts, and have been recognized with grants from ARPA-E, the US Department of Energy, the US Department of Agriculture, and the National Science Foundation.

Our methane-to-methanol process represents a cost-competitive, modular approach to chemicals production from natural gas and renewable feedstocks. Having demonstrated the underlying chemistry, we are now engaged in the critical engineering phase: translating proven science into a plant that operates safely, reliably, and at commercial scale. This transition — from laboratory to deployed asset — is where experienced process engineering judgment is

most consequential.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership on all core process engineering deliverables, including Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), heat and material balances, and equipment datasheets and specifications
• Execute and validate process simulations using Aspen HYSYS to support equipment sizing, system optimization, and engineering decision-making
• Lead and coordinate FEED and detailed engineering activities in collaboration with EPC contractors, ensuring alignment with project schedule, cost targets, and regulatory requirements
• Participate as a substantive technical contributor in HAZOPs, Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), and other process safety reviews, and ensure findings are systematically integrated into the engineering design
• Oversee the design, procurement, and integration of modular and skid-mounted process systems through fabrication and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
• Provide hands-on technical support during commissioning and startup at pilot and demonstration plant sites, including on-site troubleshooting and performance optimization
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), control philosophies, and startup guides to support safe and consistent plant operation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, operations, and business development teams to translate technical milestones into commercial outcomes

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline
• 5–10 years of process engineering experience in EPC project environments, with direct involvement across FEED, detailed design, and plant startup
• Strong proficiency in Aspen HYSYS, with the ability to translate simulation outputs into equipment specifications and engineering deliverables
• Substantive background in gas processing and/or reactor-based systems, syngas conversion, and/or methanol synthesis
• Field commissioning experience, including hands-on participation in plant startup and operational troubleshooting
• Working knowledge of process safety frameworks and applicable codes, including API, ASME, and NFPA standards
• Must be currently authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available for this position Preferred qualifications
• Experience in early-stage clean technology, startup, or FOAK commercialization environments
• Demonstrated experience on novel, modular, or first-of-a-kind process system, with the ability to develop engineering packages in the absence of established precedent
• Familiarity with renewable natural gas (RNG), alternative fuels, or gas-to-chemicals processing
• Knowledge of process automation, instrumentation, and control systems
• Experience coordinating with diverse stakeholder groups including EPC contractors, technology licensors, and equipment vendors

What this role offers

For an engineer at the mid-career stage, this position provides a distinctive set of professional opportunities that are difficult to access within conventional EPC or operating company environments:

• Full technical ownership of a FOAK engineering program, with direct influence over design decisions at every stage
• Broad exposure to the commercial, operational, and R&D dimensions of a technology company, beyond the boundaries of a single engineering workstream
• The professional distinction of having taken a novel clean energy technology from engineering design to commercial deployment
• A collaborative team environment in which individual contributions are substantive and visible

Work location and travel

This is a full-time position with a dual location model.

• [Woburn, MA]: Onsite at our headquarter site. The collaborative and hands-on nature of the work requires regular in-person presence.
• [Houston, TX]: A 100% remote setup for candidates based in this region to support collaboration and oversight with our project partners

Periodic travel to fabrication yards, partner facilities, and pilot plant sites is expected during key phases of project execution.

Compensation and benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package designed to attract experienced engineers who are considering a transition from established EPC or operating company environments into early-stage technology commercialization. The expected range for a candidate meeting the core requirements of this role is $120,000 – $170,000 annually, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and depth of relevant technical background.

Equity: As an early-stage technology company, we offer equity participation in the form of [stock options / restricted stock units] , reflecting the opportunity to share in the long-term value created by the work you will lead. Equity grants are commensurate with seniority and role scope.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Paid time off

The compensation range stated above reflects our good-faith estimate for this position at the time of posting, consistent with applicable state and local pay transparency requirements. Final compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications.

At Emvolon, our MIT roots run deep in innovation and rigorous scientific and entrepreneurial pursuits. We champion collaboration, a growth mindset, accountability, and diverse perspectives, all while prioritizing employee support and a flexible work environment.

Emvolon is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by the law.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

Please submit your application to View email address on click.appcast.io