Lead Process Engineer

TrimTabs Ltd is a pioneering technology company in Bridgend, South Wales, focused on the sustainable, large-scale production of ultralong carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and hydrogen. Our patented process transforms plastics and solvents—including hard-to-recycle waste—into high-performance CNTs and hydrogen, driving innovation in energy efficiency, advanced materials, and the circular economy.

We are rapidly scaling our operations and developing next-generation conductive wires, composites, and building materials that outperform traditional metals and support decarbonized infrastructure. At TrimTabs, we value practical problem-solving, bold innovation, and a multidisciplinary team spirit—join us to help advance breakthrough materials manufacturing for a more sustainable future.

Lead Process Engineer Role Summary:

The Lead Process Engineer will own and develop TrimTabs’ chemical and process engineering for CNT production, working closely with the CTO, engineers, and process scientists to scale CVD furnace and related processes. The role includes planning and overseeing production trials, analysing performance data to implement improvements that increase throughput and quality, while maintaining safety in a fast‑growing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the definition and delivery of the process development programme in collaboration with the CTO, including experimental design, implementation, and success metrics.
• Provide chemical and process engineering leadership for CNT growth and related processes, including heat and mass transfer, reactor design, and scale‑up considerations.
• Leverage process simulation and modelling tools (e.g. COMSOL, Aspen, CFD or similar) to understand and optimise CNT growth conditions and inform equipment and control strategies.
• Act as the link between lab‑scale development, IP/patents, and pilot/production operations, translating learning into robust operating envelopes and standard operating procedures.
• Identify and deliver process enhancements to meet product performance, yield, and cost targets for different CNT products and applications.
• Work closely with operations, data, and mechanical/controls engineering colleagues to diagnose process issues, manage risks, and design modifications to rigs and systems.
• Lead and contribute to process safety activities (e.g. HAZOP, risk assessments), ensuring safe operating windows are defined, maintained, and improved over time.
• Support and mentor engineers and technicians, helping to build strong process engineering capability and a culture of continuous improvement.

About You:

• Degree in Chemical Engineering (or closely related discipline) or equivalent industrial experience.
• Typically 5+ years’ experience in process or chemical engineering in an industrial environment (e.g. chemicals, materials, energy, pharma, or similar).
• Experience of taking processes from lab or pilot into larger‑scale operation, including working with multidisciplinary teams (engineering, operations, safety, data).
• Demonstrated ability to analyse process data, design and run trials, and implement process changes safely and systematically.
• Familiarity with process safety tools and methods (e.g. HAZOP, risk assessments, safe systems of work).
• Experience with at least one process or thermal simulation tool (e.g. COMSOL, Aspen, CFD, HYSYS, similar) and an interest in applying models to real‑world problems.
• Experience in nanomaterials, high‑temperature processes, CVD, or other advanced materials manufacturing.
• Experience in a startup, scale‑up, or fast‑changing manufacturing environment.
• Experience mentoring or guiding engineers/technicians and contributing to team development.
• Knowledge of hydrogen, gas handling, or hazardous area operations.
• Chartered Chemical Engineer, or on the path to becoming chartered.

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation package based on skills and experience.
• Eligibility to enter the employee share options scheme.
• A tailored training and career development programme, including structured mentorship within an engineering-led environment.
• The opportunity to significantly impact a high-growth startup by working closely within the founders.

If you're ready to take on a technically engaging role that will support your professional growth, we want to hear from you. TrimTabs is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and we welcome applications from women, people from under-represented backgrounds in engineering, and those returning to work or changing career paths.

We encourage applications from people who may not meet every listed requirement but feel they could thrive in this role and support our mission in a globally relevant, high visibility, strategic industry. We operate in a fast-paced, high-trust environment that values accountability, collaboration and sustainable ways of working.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Gabrielle Orbaek White at gabrielle.ow@trimtabs.co. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The vacancy will be closed once we have identified a sufficient number of suitable candidates.