R&D Engineer/Scientist I
The R&D Engineer/Scientist I at Confidential Client supports the design, construction, and commissioning of pilot plants and laboratory equipment for research and development projects. This entry-level role involves applying engineering fundamentals, safety standards, and hands-on skills to deliver reliable and cost-effective systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This entry-level engineering role supports the design, construction, modification, and commissioning of pilot plants and laboratory equipment used in Research & Development. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and project leaders, you will apply sound engineering practices, a strong safety mindset, and hands-on technical skills to help deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective systems that meet project, environmental, and operational requirements.
- Support design, construction, installation, startup, and modification of pilot plants and lab equipment for R&D programs
- Prepare and update engineering deliverables: equipment specifications, design calculations, drawings, bills of materials, construction packages, and project documentation
- Apply health, safety, and environmental policies, engineering standards, and applicable regulations during design and construction
- Participate in design reviews, hazard reviews, field walkdowns, equipment inspections, testing, commissioning, and readiness activities
- Coordinate day-to-day technical activities with engineers, researchers, technicians, craftspeople, vendors, and contractors
- Assist with project planning: cost estimates, schedules, procurement, resource tracking for capital and expense projects
- Evaluate design and fabrication alternatives (in-house vs. external) for pilot plants and lab equipment
- Provide field support during fabrication and construction; help resolve technical issues in piping, mechanical equipment, welding, machining, electrical systems, instrumentation, and general construction
- Contribute to Lean Six Sigma and continuous-improvement efforts to reduce cycle time, cost, rework, and project risk
- Communicate project status, technical findings, risks, and recommended actions in written and verbal updates
Qualifications
YOU MUST HAVE
- 6 months+ academic, internship, co-op, laboratory, shop, or project experience applying engineering fundamentals to equipment, process systems, fabrication, or construction
- 6 months+ mechanical, hands-on engineering experience
- 6 months+ experience working safely and effectively in pilot plant, laboratory, shop, or active construction environments
We Value
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or closely related technical discipline (preferred)
- Practical exposure through coursework or experience in machining, welding, piping, electrical systems, instrumentation, or construction methods
- Familiarity with engineering drawings, equipment layouts, P&IDs, process flow diagrams, or CAD tools
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for clear technical documentation
- Ability to collaborate on cross-functional teams and manage multiple tasks with guidance
- Experience or exposure to project execution, equipment procurement, contractor coordination, commissioning, or startup activities
- Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma or continuous-improvement methods (Green Belt preferred but not required)
Core Competencies
- Safety and environmental responsibility
- Engineering judgment and attention to detail
- Mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving
- Teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
- Planning, organization, and accountability
- Clear technical communication
- Learning agility and continuous improvement
Compensation & Benefits
Annual base salary range for this role in Illinois: $70,500 - $88,200. Salary offers consider factors such as role scope, experience, education, skills, and market conditions.
Benefits include employer-subsidized Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance; Short- and Long-Term Disability; 401(k) match; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; Employee Assistance Program; educational assistance; parental leave; paid time off and paid holidays. Specific benefits available depend on position and location.
About the Client
Confidential Client is hiring for this Engineering role to support R&D pilot-plant and laboratory projects. The client operates in industrial and process engineering domains and seeks candidates who want hands-on technical experience, mentorship, and opportunities to contribute to safe, high-impact engineering work.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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