Engineer I, Downstream Processing

Position At A Glance Location: Boulder, CO - On-SiteEmployment: Full-Time DMC EmployeeCompensation: $78,000-$95,000 annually, based on experience and position levelBenefits: Full DMC Employee BenefitsDuration: 12-Month Project PositionAnticipated Start: October 2026 About DMC BiotehcnologiesDMC is a biotechnology company based in Boulder, CO, and RTP, NC. Our Dynamic Metabolic Control™ technology platform delivers robust and predictably scalable biocatalysts resulting in cost-competitive and sustainable processes for everyday chemicals. We are a multi-product bio-based chemical company, working ingeniously to reduce the cost of biochemicals for markets in animal feed, human nutrition, pharmaceutical materials, and chemical intermediates. The Role We are looking for an Engineer I to join our Downstream Processing team in Boulder, Colorado. This hands-on, laboratory-based role will support the development and scale-up of processes used to recover and purify products from fermentation. Engineer I will work under the guidance of experienced engineers and scientists while collaborating across the broader technical team.Responsibilities will include planning and executing experiments, operating bench-scale processing equipment, analyzing data, documenting results, and contributing to the transfer of successful processes to pilot and commercial scale. Please note that this position is supported by grant funding and is initially offered for a 12-month term, subject to the terms and duration of the grant. ResponsibilitiesSupport development and optimization of processes for the purification of compounds of interest from fermentationPlan and execute laboratory experiments involving unit operations with guidance, such as microfiltration/ultrafiltration, evaporation/distillation, preparative-scale chromatography, crystallization, and reaction chemistryUse analytical chemistry techniques such as HPLC/UPLC, GC, titrations, and spectrophotometry to quantify compounds of interest in complex mixturesAnalyze experimental data, draw data-driven conclusions, and communicate results to the broader technical teamMaintain clear and accurate experimental records, calculations, and technical summariesEffectively track important experimental parameters and data, with a focus on mass balances, product yield and product quality (purity).Support process modeling, including technoeconomic modeling of anticipated and/or established processes and performance metrics at commercial scalePrepare reagents and materials including media, buffers, and stock solutionsCoordinate experimental schedules within a broader teamTroubleshoot and improve experimental methods and downstream processesMaintain safe laboratory practices and contribute to a safe, clean, and organized work environment Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related disciplineHands-on experience with unit operations such as membrane filtration, evaporation, distillation, crystallization, chromatography, reaction chemistry, and solid-liquid separationAbility to safely operate laboratory equipment and execute written experimental proceduresAbility to analyze quantitative data, clearly document results, and draw data-driven conclusionsStrong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple experiments or prioritiesEffective written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team Preferred QualificationsRelevant industry or internship experienceExperience with HPLC, UPLC, GC, titrations, spectrophotometry, or other analytical methodsExperience with process modeling, cost-of-goods analysis, and technoeconomic analysisProgramming experience using Python or similar tools for automation, engineering calculations, and data analysisExperience developing Arduino or Raspberry Pi based systemsExperience working with fermentation-derived products or complex biological mixtures Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion We're actively taking steps to make sure our culture is inclusive and that our processes and practices promote equity for all, including people of color, people from working-class backgrounds, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. We welcome and encourage applications from people with these identities or members of other historically marginalized groups. Research shows that women and people of color tend not to apply to jobs unless they believe they are 100% qualified and apply to fewer senior-level positions. With that in mind, we encourage you to apply if you're not sure whether you meet our qualifications. We'd love to have the opportunity to consider you.