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Process Engineer, Scale-Up

Lilac
Oakland, CA Intern
POSTED ON 8/5/2025 CLOSED ON 9/3/2025

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Process Engineer, Scale-Up position at Lilac?

About Lilac Solutions, Inc.

Lilac exists to solve one problem: lithium supply. By engineering scalable lithium extraction technology, we help industries produce lithium faster, cheaper, and cleaner. Our ion exchange technology is rooted in scientific precision and commercial know-how, making lithium supply a non-issue for global electrification. Our materials, engineering, and approach uniquely position us to design and develop commercial projects across various lithium sources. We help lithium producers rapidly and responsibly scale production from brine resources with versatile, cost-effective, and dynamic technology solutions.

Lilac is supported by the largest players from the mining and processing industry, as well as significant investment funds. Lilac investors include BMW, SK, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Mercuria, Lower Carbon Capital, and MIT’s The Engine.

Job Description

Lilac is seeking a Process Engineer to support the scale-up of Lilac’s proprietary ion exchange technology from pilot to commercial scale. It’s a collaborative position where you will work with cross-functional teams to conceptualize and drive innovation. An ideal candidate provides new ideas, and/or refines the existing technology through a process of researching, designing, experimenting, and testing. Day-to-day responsibilities will include operating process equipment, data collection, data analysis and summarizing results and conclusions in technical reports. This is a full-time, on-site position, with up to 50% travel to lithium extraction and R&D sites.

The posted salary range reflects our best estimate for this role based on market data and internal benchmarks. The final offer may vary outside this range depending on factors such as experience, skills, and fit for the role.

Responsibilities

  • Design, fabricate, commission, and operate lithium extraction modules and associated unit ops, at pilot and commercial scale.
  • Develop new designs to improve efficiency of the technology.
  • Develop key design documents such as material balances, P&IDs, and equipment datasheets.
  • Evaluate equipment and processes to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
  • Up to 50% travel, to commission and operate lithium extraction plants and R&D projects domestically and internationally.

Candidate Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related field.
  • A minimum of 1-2 years of work experience (including co-ops/internships) in chemical process R&D, design, or operations.
  • Familiar with laboratory equipment and safety procedures.
  • Highly organized with sharp attention to detail, proficient in data analysis and interpretation.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to interface internally (engineers, chemists, operators) and externally (vendors, EPCMs).
  • Pass a respirator fit test periodically, move up to 50 lbs on occasion, and wear PPE.

Preferred Qualification

  • Familiarity with brine solutions or water treatment systems.
  • Strong working knowledge of fluid mechanics.
  • Experience working with programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Compensation & Benefits

  • Discretionary bonus
  • Stock options
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • 401k with pre- and post-tax investing options
  • Flexible spendings account/Health savings account
  • Group and term life
  • Flexible paid time off policy
  • Paid sick leave
  • Eight weeks of paid parental leave
  • Employee assistance program
  • Monthly phone stipend
  • Daily catered lunch for on-site employees

EEO Statement

Lilac Solutions is committed to providing a professional work environment free from discrimination and harassment, including discrimination and harassment based on a protected category, and an environment free from retaliation for participating in any protected activity. Lilac Solutions is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment.

A Note to Third-Party Recruiters

At this time, we are not accepting unsolicited resumes from non-partnered third-party recruiters or staffing agencies. Resumes sent without prior arrangement will be considered the property of Lilac Solutions, and no fees will be paid if we hire a candidate whose resume was submitted unsolicited.

The Pay Range For This Role Is

108,000 - 135,000 USD per year (Oakland, CA)

Salary : $108,000 - $135,000

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