About the role:

The purpose of this position within the Chemical Technology Group is to lead and participate in projects related to the chemical transformation of biobased feedstocks into chemicals and/or fuels (Diesel, Olefins, Aromatics, Jet Fuel, etc.). This includes planning, setting up, operating, analyzing, and synthesizing/communicating the results of complex experiments. Additional job responsibilities include, either independently or in a team environment: synthesis of experimental plans based on project or business objectives, oversight of execution of said experimental plans when work is conducted by other team members, laboratory hazard analysis and mitigation, collection and interpretation of data, design of experiments, catalyst design and preparation, development and maintenance of laboratory infrastructure, trouble-shooting instruments, analytical method development, screening of literature for relevant applicability, assist in writing Patent Applications, presentation of data to Management and External Partners, represent Gevo in technical and non-technical forums, interact with potential external partners, and support process scale-up activities/design when necessary (Pilot Plant, Engineering, etc.).

Who you are:

• Responsible for all aspects of safely installing and operating high temperature/pressure chemical reactor systems including building units with metal tubing and fittings and incorporating manual or computer-controlled valves, pumps, and meters, and data collection devices.
• Responsible for safely setting up and using laboratory glassware for chemical reactions, distillations, and processes.
• Responsible for accurately recording and processing data from experiments and communicating results to team, using both manual and automated data handling/processing tools.
• Responsible for day-to-day planning and oversight of reactor laboratory activities based on regular discussions with group directors.
• Expected to serve as subject matter expert for Gevo catalytic processes and become a world expert in catalytic and chemical processes related to conversion of Gevo feedstocks and intermediates.
• Detail oriented, organized, and critical thinking.
• Responsible for chemical analyses of samples using traditional and unconventional analytical instruments (GC, GC/MS, HPLC, TCD, Catalyst Characterization techniques)
• Responsible for yield and material balance calculations.
• Design of experiments to maximize yields, sensitivity analysis of reaction parameters (temp, pressure, residence time, etc.), and elucidate chemical mechanisms.
• Self-starter, able to identify new opportunities, errors, or areas for improvement, provide recommendations and follow through to completion.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with diverse groups and lead small teams.
• Demonstrated ability to develop clear experimental plans and goals based on broad project objectives.
• Experience in working with others to develop effective project objectives.
• Experience in developing new ideas and processes based on organizational objectives.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for internal and external needs.
• Preparing and delivering information in a concise, accurate and professionally written format
• Preparing and presenting information in an informal setting
• Quick learner, able to adapt to situations, opportunities, and problems as they evolve.
• Working in a team-oriented environment.
• Analyzing and developing solutions to problems.
• Developing and maintaining positive rapport with customers and external partners.
• Strong computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office products.

Requirements and Experience

• Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering and > 10 years’ experience or Ph.D. in Chemistry and >5 years’ experience.
• Developing and optimizing industrial catalytic processes, including catalyst synthesis
• Safe design, construction, start-up, and shake-down of custom laboratory reactors
• Development and management of catalyst laboratory infrastructure (e.g., pumps, furnaces, safety equipment, gas manifolds, etc.)
• Working in and/or developing automated laboratory environments
• Assembling processes and/or devices with metal tubing and fittings in an industrial or research chemistry laboratory
• Safely handling of flammable, corrosive, and toxic chemicals and compressed gases
• Typical analytical equipment (e.g., gas or liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, etc.)
• Catalyst characterization
• Chemistry software tools such as SciFinder Search Engine, ChemDraw, Patent Searching, etc
• Analytical method development

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.

Who We Are

• We are People First
• We are Mission-Focused
• We are Agile
• We are Innovators

What Gevo Offers You

• Free health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance for employee and family
• 22 days of sick and vacation time plus 11 paid holidays
• 401k contribution plan
• Annual incentive plan, based on Company performance
• Paid community service time
• Tuition reimbursement
• Be part of a smart, high performing, passionate team
• Work-from-home stipend, if remote
• Dog friendly office if in Englewood, CO

Salary (for Colorado only)

Our salary ranges are based on national averages. We have wide ranges so we can be flexible and determine compensation based on a number of factors including the candidate's skills and level of experience. The salary range for this position starts at $125,000 per year.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Gevo, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.