Lead Process Engineer

About Material Evolution

Material Evolution is a materials technology company founded in 2020 by Dr. Liz Gilligan and Sam Clark. Headquartered in Middlesbrough, in 2024 we commissioned the UK's largest ultra-low-carbon cement factory in Wrexham.

We exist to solve one of the world's toughest climate problems. As a team of scientists, engineers, and commercial and operational experts, we’re rethinking how essential materials are made; starting with cement, an industry responsible for around 8% of global CO₂ emissions.

Backed by leading impact and technology investors, we’re on a mission to rapidly and radically decarbonise industrial materials. If you’re motivated by real-world impact and want to work close to the heart of a purpose-driven business, you’ll feel at home here.

The Role

We are seeking a Lead Process Engineer to design, optimise, and scale our core production processes. This role operates at the intersection of engineering, operations, and product development, ensuring manufacturing systems are efficient, reliable, and scalable.

You will play a critical role in translating R&D innovations into robust industrial processes, supporting scale-up and continuous improvement across our production facilities.

This is a hands‑on role that would suit someone who enjoys wearing many different hats and is not afraid to get their hands dirty.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimise manufacturing and production processes
• Lead scale‑up from laboratory and pilot processes to full‑scale production
• Analyse process performance using data, experimentation, and engineering methodologies
• Lead production and delivery of our materials to all our customers
• Identify and implement improvements to efficiency, quality, and throughput
• Develop and maintain process documentation, SOPs, and technical specifications
• Collaborate with equipment suppliers and contractors on process design, procurement, and installation
• Support on‑site commissioning, start‑up, and ramp‑up of production facilities
• Troubleshoot and resolve process issues during commissioning and ongoing operations
• Work cross‑functionally with R&D, product, and operations teams
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement across engineering and operations
• Travel to manufacturing and partner sites as required

Requirements

About You

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
• Proven experience in process design, optimisation, and industrial operations
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities
• Experience working with process data, experimentation, and troubleshooting
• Familiarity with industrial equipment and manufacturing environments
• Experience scaling processes from pilot to commercial production
• Hands‑on experience operating or supporting production plants
• Experience in materials, cement, chemicals, or heavy industry environments
• Experience supporting plant commissioning and start‑up activities
• Familiarity with contractor management and on‑site supervision
• Working knowledge of change control, HAZOP, and industrial safety systems
• Ability to work effectively in fast‑paced, cross‑functional teams

Benefits

Our Benefits and Perks

At Material Evolution, we provide everything you need to perform at your best. Our rewards, benefits, and initiatives are designed to support your career growth, enhance your well‑being, and contribute positively to our community.

Along with a competitive salary, we offer an outstanding benefits package, including 25 days holiday (plus an extra day for your birthday), access to a learning & development budget and social events. At Material Evolution, we are passionate about well‑being and have partnered with a leading healthcare provider.

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