Process Design Engineer

As a Process Design Engineer at Kairos Power, you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining process design documentation, such as process flow diagrams and piping and instrumentation diagrams. You'll also conduct sizing and rating analysis for key systems and provide field support during plant commissioning. Your role involves optimizing components like heat exchangers and control valves, as well as mentoring junior engineers and participating in design reviews to ensure that our advanced nuclear energy projects are successful.

To qualify for the Process Design Engineer position at Kairos Power, you should have a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, along with at least 7 years of industry experience in process design engineering. Familiarity with design tools like AutoCAD, simulation software, and experience in designing systems for hazardous chemicals are highly valued. Strong communication skills and an ability to work collaboratively will help you thrive in this innovative environment.

As a Process Design Engineer at Kairos Power, you’ll engage in cutting-edge projects, including the design and optimization of systems for our low-power demonstration reactor and future commercial units. Your work will encompass developing critical documentation and specifications for various plant components, ensuring these projects meet robust safety and operational standards, while playing an integral role in the advancement of nuclear energy solutions.

At Kairos Power, professional growth is a priority. As a Process Design Engineer, you'll have opportunities to mentor junior staff, engage in innovative projects, and work in a collaborative team environment. We encourage continuous learning through workshops and training sessions while also providing exposure to diverse projects within the nuclear energy sector, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and skill enhancement.

The work environment for a Process Design Engineer at Kairos Power is dynamic and collaborative. You'll be part of a multi-disciplinary team that thrives under a shared vision of advancing clean nuclear energy technology. The setting is a mix of office work and field support activities, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and team-oriented problem-solving, which enhances both individual growth and overall project success.

When answering this question, provide specific examples of the types of documentation you’ve developed, such as process flow diagrams or piping and instrumentation diagrams. Highlight your familiarity with the necessary software tools and describe how this documentation contributed to successful project outcomes.

Discuss your methodology for conducting sizing and rating analysis, mentioning any relevant tools or software you utilize. Emphasize how your approach ensures compliance with safety standards and operational efficiency, potentially citing a successful project where you applied these techniques.

Highlight the strategies you use to facilitate communication, such as regular meetings, collaborative software, or clear documentation. Emphasize the importance of fostering relationships and how effective communication has directly contributed to project success in your previous roles.

In your response, outline specific hazard analysis methods you're familiar with, such as HAZOP or FMEA. Share instances where you’ve applied these methods in previous projects to improve safety outcomes, demonstrating your understanding of process safety in design.

Talk about a specific instance where you guided a junior engineer, detailing the context and your approach. Explain how your mentorship contributed to their professional development and the project's success, showcasing your leadership skills.

Discuss your time management strategies, such as prioritizing tasks or breaking projects into manageable milestones. Provide an example of a project where you successfully met a tight deadline while maintaining quality standards and safety.

List the design tools and software you're most experienced with, such as AutoCAD, HYSYS, or Aspen Plus. Discuss how these tools have enhanced your productivity and the quality of your design work in past projects.

Be candid about a specific challenge you faced in process design, explaining the context and the steps you took to overcome it. Highlight the lessons learned and how this experience has shaped your approach to future projects.

Share your strategies for maintaining safety when designing systems for hazardous chemicals, including adherence to safety standards and risk assessments. Discuss how your proactive approach has contributed to safe project execution.

In your response, connect your passion for clean energy and technological innovation to Kairos Power's mission. Discuss how your skills align with the job description and how you envision contributing to the company's goals in advancing nuclear energy technology.