Director of Engineering and Process Development Draths Corporation   Employer: Draths Corporation Job Location: Okemos , MI Cash Compensation: Industry Type: Building Products - Equipment Job Description: Job Overview: The Director of Engineering is critical to the successful execution of the firm’s business plan. The proprietary technology of the firm is based on unique application of biology and chemistry, but now must be engineered into practical and economical manufacturing processes. The Director of Engineering will lead these activities toward commercial success and participate in future corporate planning as a member of the company leadership team. In this role, the Director of Engineering will be responsible for leading key functional groups of engineering and biochemical professionals focused on optimization of the firm’s current process technologies and successful scale-up to commercial manufacturing. The Director of Engineering will also lead and manage all external interfaces related to design, construction, and initial operation of all pilot and commercial manufacturing facilities. Key functions in this leadership role include implementation and optimization of chemical and biochemical unit operations such as reaction, solid/liquid separation, liquid/liquid extraction, distillation, and others as required. Initially, the successful candidate for this role will need to engage in the real-time engineering activities of the firm. Near and longer term, the successful candidate needs to manage external relationships well, develop staff, and have general management potential. The position will report to the Chief Science Officer, and has outstanding potential for career progression. Job Responsibilities: -Process development, engineering and capital budget planning and management -Delivery of process development and capital project portfolio -Own and manage the interface with external companies hired by the firm to provide service on engineering and capital project issues -Serve as the company’s leader of process development and project management -Implement and optimize process technology at the pilot scale and develop design criteria for full commercial scale operations -Serve as a member of the company leadership team and participate in the conception and implementation of new process and product technology for corporate growth and success -Management, development, and safety performance of personnel in engineering teams Requirements -Significant experience and proven track record in process development, process safety, process engineering, and project management -Demonstrated leadership capability and skillful at managing interpersonal relationships -Experience with scale-up of new process technology to commercial operation -Willingness and comfort to be a ‘hands on’ contributor to the process development and engineering agenda -Strong communication skills, collaborative by nature, and committed to people development -Capable of effectively managing a portfolio of multiple projects simultaneously Education and Direct Experience: -MS degree in Chemical or Biochemical Engineering required. PhD in Chemical or Biochemical Engineering would be a strong plus -Minimum 10 years experience in the chemical, biochemical, or pharmaceutical industry with some direct experience in process development, pilot plant operations, and project management -Experience as a line manager desirable Draths offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience and a benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending plans, life insurance, and 401k. Company Description: Draths Corporation, located in Lansing MI, is building a next generation chemical company focused on manufacturing biobased materials for use in everyday products via environmentally friendly and economical processes. The technology platform covers the entire benzene value chain, enabling it to manufacture products that are identical to intermediates used to make nylons, plastics, and a host of other materials. Draths is unique in this capability and is different from companies that are manufacturing biofuels or targeting other parts of the carbon-based chemical value chain (e.g., C-2, C-3 materials). Draths is looking for individuals who are committed to changing the way chemicals are made and who are willing to put forth the effort necessary to enable a growing biotech startup to achieve its technical milestones.