Lead Process Engineer

About Deep Sky Deep Sky is at the forefront of environmental innovation, specializing in Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies. We are dedicated to developing sustainable solutions for decarbonization and are currently expanding our team to include a skilled professional who will play a crucial role in our Direct Air Capture (DAC) projects across Canada. Job Overview This is a senior individual-contributor role with a strong emphasis on hands-on process design, technology integration, and facility optimization . The Capital Projects Lead Process Engineer will be responsible for the technical integrity of our DAC systems, moving from conceptual design to pilot-scale operations and commercial deployment. While this role does not include direct people management, you will carry significant influence over equipment selection, energy integration, and the overall efficiency of our carbon removal facilities. This role is preferably hybrid and open to candidates located anywhere in Canada. Ideally, candidates would be based near one of our offices in Innisfail, Calgary, or Montreal; however, remote candidates will also be considered. Key Responsibilities • Lead the conceptual and detailed process design of DAC systems, including Heat and Material Balances (H&MB) and Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs). • Develop and refine Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) , ensuring robust control logic and safety standards (HAZOP/LOPA) are integrated from the start. • Perform advanced process simulations using software such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS to optimize energy consumption—a critical metric for DAC viability. • Drive technology selection for key components like contactors, regeneration units, and moisture/heat management systems. • Collaborate with mechanical and structural teams to oversee the scale-up of modular DAC units from prototype to multi-ton commercial facilities. • Assess and mitigate technical risks related to solvent/sorbent degradation, energy variability, and ambient environmental impacts on capture efficiency. • Coordinate with external vendors and EPCM partners to ensure equipment specifications meet Deep Sky's performance and sustainability targets. • Support commissioning and startup activities at our test facilities, troubleshooting process bottlenecks and validating performance against design models. Qualifications • Education: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related field. • Certification: Professional Engineer designation (P.Eng) with a Canadian engineering association. • Experience: 10+ years of engineering experience, with significant time spent in a process design or lead engineer role within the energy, chemicals, or gas processing industries. • Software Proficiency: Expert-level experience with process simulation tools (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, PRO/II). • Domain Expertise: Strong background in mass transfer, thermodynamics, and gas separation technologies. Specific experience with amine-based systems, solid sorbents, or electrochemical processes is a major asset. • Hands-on Mindset: A proven ability to move between high-level modeling and on-site technical troubleshooting. • Communication: Excellent collaboration skills, with the ability to explain complex process trade-offs to non-technical stakeholders and cross-functional teams. Why Join Deep Sky? • Opportunity to be part of cutting-edge projects. • Collaborative work environment with a team of passionate and skilled professionals. • Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and career development opportunities. Deep Sky is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities — including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, disability, and veteran status.