Chemical Engineer

Job Description:

Chemical Engineer

Sydney NSW

The opportunity:

• Exciting technology development work environment

• Novel processes and applications

• Competitive remuneration package

• Permanent, full-time, based at Lucas Heights, Sydney

This opportunity is for an Australian citizen, eligible to be granted a National Security Clearance.

Applications close: Friday, 20 October 2023

About Silex:

Silex Systems Limited (Silex, the Company) is a technology commercialisation company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. Silex’s core expertise is in the development and commercialisation of laser isotope separation (LIS) technologies and is the inventor of the unique SILEX laser enrichment process which is being commercialised as a next-generation uranium enrichment technology for the global nuclear fuel industry.

A variant of Silex’s LIS technology is also being used to support the establishment of a Quantum Silicon (Q-Si) Production Plant, which aims to deliver an end-to-end manufacturing facility at the Company’s Lucas Heights technology centre. It is anticipated that the Company will first produce Zero-Spin Silicon (ZS-Si - in the form of halo-silane), which will then be converted to multiple Q-Si product forms for potential customers in the global silicon-based quantum computing industry.

For further information about Silex please visit http://www.silex.com.au/

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity to join a ground-breaking team in the development and commercialisation of laser isotope enrichment technologies for use in silicon quantum computing, next-generation nuclear fuel production and other potential applications. Reporting to the Quantum Silicon Project Manager, this role will focus on design of a chemical production plant to support the manufacture of isotopically pure silicon for the quantum computing industry. You will be working within the engineering and science teams at Silex to deliver production-scale chemical reactors and distillation equipment.

Responsibilities include:

• Chemical Safety and Plant Design (up to 20 litres reactor volume):
  • Design production reactors as required to scale up chemical syntheses
  • Specify and design distillation equipment for the cryogenic distillation of process materials
  • Advise the engineering and science team on best practice for chemical manipulations in a variety of high and low temperature gas and liquid systems
  • Perform thermal and kinetic modelling to optimise reaction processes, especially in the case of gas and liquid phase flow systems
  • Contribute to development of a production plant for electronic grade silicon tetrafluoride and silane
  • Support the design and development of process equipment for conversion from silane to solid elemental silicon (polysilicon / monosilicon)
  • Liaise with consultants and suppliers where necessary
  • Perform HAZOP, HAZID, and LOPA risk assessment studies to manage process safety
• Research and Development Activities:
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of chemical procedures to support process optimisation and assess scalability of procedures
  • Take part in systematic, routine measurement programs to compile comprehensive chemical process and plant data for production scaling and optimisation
• Chemistry and Engineering support
  • Proactively contribute towards achieving the deliverables and goals of the various Silex projects
  • Support the Project team with process and engineering reviews, and material compatibility assessments
  • Provide support with the design, construction, installation and commissioning of chemical and industrial process equipment
  • Contribute to the Silex safety culture by proactively applying WHS principles to the planning, execution and conclusion of all activities

Selection Criteria:

• Australian citizen and eligible to be granted a National Security Clearance
• Bachelor of Chemical Engineering or Science, majoring in a relevant field of chemistry
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a chemical manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, Codes of Practice and Standards required for safe design of chemical plant equipment
• Competent in a wide variety of chemical processing and manufacturing operations, with good general knowledge of chemical plant management
• Demonstrated ability to advise on the handling and use of toxic, pyrophoric and/or high purity chemicals and gases in industrial processes
• Hands-on mechanical skills and familiarity with the construction of pipework and fittings
• The following skills would be advantageous:
  • Experience with sub-atmospheric and/or high vacuum gas systems
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics
  • Knowledge of high purity semiconductor chemistry
• Effective in both verbal and written communications, with a collaborative working style that fosters good relationships
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office software
• Ability to work in an environment that embraces diversity, inclusiveness and superior outcomes
• Proficient administrative skills, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Anticipate potential problems and contribute to identifying innovative solutions
• Taking ownership of assigned tasks from planning and design to execution and delivery with a focus on continuous improvement
• Ability to work autonomously, multi-task and prioritise work demands

To Apply:

Please apply online - applications may be missed if sent via email.

Your application is to include:

• A copy of your CV, including email, preferred telephone contact number, and names of two referees
• A supporting statement systematically addressing the selection criteria listed above, including examples of where your knowledge and experience matches required criteria

Contact: The Selection Committee

E: enquiries@silex.com.au