Senior Chemical Engineer at Estes Energetics

Estes Energetics, along with its subsidiary Goex Industries, is an American manufacturer of black powder, chemicals, and rocket motors. Our agile and experienced team is proud to make products that support the Department of Defense, strengthen domestic production, preserve history, serve hunting and shooting sports enthusiasts, and ignite a passion for rocketry in our youth. Whether we’re performing research into energetic materials and products, or standing up American-made production, count on us to find a solution. 

Summary 

Estes Energetics is searching for an experienced chemical engineer at our Colorado research and development facility near Colorado Springs. The chemical engineer will primarily be responsible for developing new chemical manufacturing processes and performing related research efforts in support of our efforts to reshore domestic production of critical chemicals. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of experience in chemical engineering or a similar field. Practical, hands-on work experience with chemical and manufacturing equipment is preferred.  

Essential Functions 

• Work with the engineering team to develop technical solutions supporting the establishment of a new chemical manufacturing facility. 

• This role would involve design of new manufacturing systems and their supporting components, based on both existing industrial processes and developing unique solutions as required. 

• Assist with both the design, construction, and operation of the chemical plant, including prototype processes. 

• Perform other aerospace, chemical, and defense research, development, and production projects. 

• Identify and mitigate risks to ensure safe operation of the facility. 

• Present to stakeholders on topics such as technical project status updates. 

• Support the completion of projects safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. 

• Assist with mentoring entry-level engineers. 

Competencies, Experience, and Education

Required 

• Bachelor’s or master’s engineering degree in chemical, mechanical, industrial, or other relevant field. 

• Minimum 5 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a strong emphasis on working in or building chemical manufacturing facilities. 

• Proven track record of hands-on involvement in the design, construction, or operation of chemical manufacturing processes. 

• Strong knowledge of chemical processes and safety regulations. 

• Hands on skills such as machining, prototype fabrication, carpentry, pipe fitting, electronics, etc. 

• Conceptual skills such as mechanical design, CAD, and facility design. 

• Ability to take initiative and work independently. 

• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses, including 

• Be 21 years of age or older 

• Pass pre-employment drug test 

• Pass State and Federal background checks. 

• Interest in performing both conceptual tasks and hands-on tasks. 

• Ability to take initiative and work independently. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 

• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines. 

• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment. 

• Proficient with Microsoft Office software  

Desired 

• Programming and/or electronics experience for support of process control, such as 

• LabView 

• Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) 

• Field components such as valves and sensors 

• 4-20 mA communication or other industrial communication protocols 

• Chemical modeling software such as Aspen or ChemCAD 

• Basic chemical laboratory experience 

• Construction experience, either professional or personal                                                                                                          

Benefits 

Estes Energetics maintains a comprehensive benefits package including: 

• Health insurance through an ICHRA.
• Life and disability insurance 100% paid by company. 
• 401(k) retirement plan with 7% company match with vesting after 30 days. 
• Single, comprehensive paid time off (PTO) policy. 
• 8 paid Holidays    

Work Environment 

The work will be primarily in office and manufacturing environments. Some time may be spent working with energetic chemicals and explosives. 

Physical Demands 

• Ability to lift 50 pounds. 
• Comfortable sitting, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. 
• Exposure to industrial machines, heat, cold, and explosives. 
• Frequent movement through a manufacturing environment. 
• Use of personal protective equipment appropriate to the work location. 

Travel 

5-20%, particularly to the Minden, Louisiana area. 

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work 

This is a full-time position. Typical workdays are on a 5-day week. Employees are expected to work 40 hours each week to maintain full-time status. Occasional overtime may be required during busy periods. 

Work Authorization 

Must be a US citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual as defined in 8 USC 1324b. 

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Program 

Estes Energetics provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Additional information is available at: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters 

Other Duties 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

 Please note: We are not working with external recruiters or agencies for this position at this time. Direct applicants only. 

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