Senior Enzyme Technology Engineer

Overview

Senior Enzyme Technology Engineer at K , Inc. The K  Technology business unit provides innovative process technologies and catalysts used across numerous downstream industries. K  technologies aim to produce clean, sustainable end products while mitigating environmental impact and reducing operational hazards. The role focuses on leading the development and optimization of enzyme-based processes for the production of sustainable materials, including bio-based polymers, renewable feed stocks, and biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based products.

• Design and scale up enzyme-catalyzed processes for transforming renewable biomass into monomers, intermediates, and high-performance sustainable materials.
• Develop integrated biocatalytic and bioprocess workflows for feedstock conversion, polymer precursor production, or polymer degradation (e.g., PET hydrolysis, lignocellulosic processing).
• Optimize enzyme formulations and reaction conditions for stability, efficiency, and environmental compatibility.
• Collaborate with material scientists, fermentation engineers, and product development teams to align enzymatic processes with final material properties and commercial goals.
• Lead pilot-scale trials and support transition to commercial production with a focus on green chemistry and minimal environmental footprint.
• Evaluate enzyme sourcing, immobilization techniques, and recycling strategies to enhance process economics and sustainability.
• Stay up to date with advances in biocatalysis, synthetic biology, and circular materials science.
• Represent the company in technical meetings, conferences, and with external partners.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability.

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7–10 years of experience in enzyme technology with a focus on industrial biotechnology, sustainable chemistry, or bio-based materials.
• Strong understanding of enzyme kinetics, biocatalyst engineering, and process integration for biomass valorization.
• Hands-on experience with fermentation systems, downstream processing, and enzymatic hydrolysis or polymerization.
• Experience with lignocellulose conversion, biopolymer synthesis (e.g., PLA, PHA, bio-PET), or enzymatic plastic recycling (e.g., PETase).
• Familiarity with green chemistry principles and life cycle assessment (LCA) tools.
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation software (e.g., Super Pro, Aspen Plus, MATLAB).

• Strong project leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Track record of mentoring, technical leadership, and cross-disciplinary teamwork.

• Enzyme immobilization or continuous biocatalytic processing
• Collaborations with academic or industrial research consortia on bio-based innovations
• Experience in regulatory aspects of sustainable materials (e.g., REACH, FDA for food contact)

K  offers competitive lifestyle benefits which may include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, and flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Equality: K  is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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