Careers - 280 Earth

Career Openings

We are always looking for top-notch engineering talent and experienced project development professionals to join the team. If you’re interested in building a sustainable climate future with us, send your resume to careers@280.earth. Current openings:

Mechanical Engineer
Process Engineer
Software Lead
Lead Technical Program Manager
Chemistry Lead
Sr. CAD Engineer
Sr. Hardware Engineer
Hardware Lead Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

We’re seeking a highly motivated and experienced Mechanical Engineer to join the 280 Earth team. You will play a critical role in designing, optimizing, and scaling up our novel process with real-world impact.

Compensation:

$170k – $230k

Responsibilities:

Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative mechanical systems and structures for novel infrastructure projects.
Utilize advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks and Navisworks) to create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and simulations.
Perform structural analyses and simulations to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of designs.
Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and designers to integrate mechanical systems into complex projects.
Fabricate and assemble prototypes for testing and validation, iterating on designs based on experimental results.
Manage and maintain project documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and engineering drawings.
Contribute to a culture of innovation, creativity, and rigorous experimentation.
Stay at the forefront of advancements in mechanical engineering, materials science, and related fields.

Required Experience:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
Proven industrial experience in mechanical design and engineering.
Proficiency in CAD software, specifically SolidWorks and Navisworks.
Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including statics, dynamics, materials science, and thermodynamics.
Demonstrated ability to solve complex engineering problems creatively and efficiently.

Preferred Experience:

Experience working on infrastructure projects (e.g., transportation, energy, urban development).
Expertise in structural engineering and analysis.
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) software.
Experience with rapid prototyping technologies (e.g., 3D printing and CNC machining).
A portfolio of past projects that showcases innovative design and engineering solutions.

280 Earth is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. 280 Earth will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Process Engineer

We’re seeking a highly motivated and experienced Process Engineer to join the 280 Earth team. You will play a critical role in designing, optimizing, and scaling up our novel process with real-world impact. This role requires a blend of theoretical understanding and hands-on industrial experience.

Compensation:

$170k – $220k

Responsibilities:

Process Development & Optimization: Lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of a novel process, from pilot plant to demonstration scale.
Process Design and Optimization: Apply fundamental thermodynamic principles to design and optimize industrial gas processing systems. Perform heat and mass balance calculations across the entire process flow to ensure efficiency, identify areas for improvement, and inform equipment design.
Equipment Specification and Selection: Specify and select industrial equipment, such as vacuum pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, and other critical components, ensuring alignment with process requirements.
Process Flow Diagram (PFD) Development: Develop and maintain accurate Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) to represent the evolving process design, ensuring consistency with equipment specifications and safety considerations.
Instrumentation and Control: Specify and integrate industrial instrumentation, such as flow meters, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and pressure sensors, for accurante process monitoring and control.
Industrialization: Translate laboratory-scale processes into robust, scalable, and cost-effective industrial designs, considering factors like manufacturability, safety, reliability, and maintenance.
Plant Operations Interface: Collaborate closely with the Plant Operations Team during commissioning, startup, and operation of the pilot and demonstration facilities. Provide technical support, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement process improvements.
Data Analysis & Reporting: Participate in experimental and operational data analysis, identify trends, and prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations.
Safety & Compliance: Ensure that all process designs and operations comply with relevant safety regulations and industry best practices.
Innovation & Problem Solving: Embrace the first of a kind project scale-up, contributing innovative ideas and solutions to overcome technical challenges.

Nice to have:

Modeling & Simulation: Utilize Aspen Plus to create and refine process models, predict process performance, optimize operating parameters, and identify potential bottlenecks. Conduct sensitivity analyses and troubleshoot simulation issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of industrial experience in process engineering, specifically in a manufacturing or production environment involving chemical processes.
Demonstrated proficiency in performing heat and mass balance calculations for complex processes.
Strong understanding of PFDs and their development.
Familiarity with Aspen Plus for process modeling and simulation.
Experience interfacing with Plant Operations Teams to commission, troubleshoot, and optimize processes.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
Extensive hands-on experience with process simulation software Aspen Plus.
Experience with process safety analyses (e.g., HAZOP).
Experience in scaling up first-of-a-kind pilot facilities.
Familiarity with sustainable or green chemistry principles.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Software Lead

The software team at 280 Earth operates across many domains, from the automation of a

carbon capture pilot plant to the data platform to provide data and reporting to back up our

research efforts. The software team works closely with chemical and mechanical engineers to

develop necessary infrastructure to conduct experiments and push forward the carbon capture

technology.

Compensation:

$230 – $250k

We’re looking for someone to join the team as a team lead to take ownership of the existing product.

Responsibilities:

Own the tools, pipelines, services and platform that compose 280 Earth’s pilot plant and test fixtures.
Work on the development of state machines and automating tests
Integrate new sensors and actuators at our industrial plant.
Interface with hardware and PLC vendors in integrating off the shelf hardware and software
Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team spanning operations, hardware, and chemistry
Assist in roadmap planning, prioritization, and delivery of new tools and features
Participate in the growth and planning for how our data platform scales over the next few years
Support the bring up and operation of 280 Earth’s Oregon pilot plant. Occasional travel required (5%)

Qualifications:

8+ years of software engineering experience in C++
Experience working with hardware products, you don’t need to be an embedded engineer but you know what a linear actuator is and can describe a few low level communication protocols
MS/PhD or Bachelors degree with a Computer Science, Robotics and/or similar technical field(s) of study.
Experience using Python
Experience building with Bazel or is an expert in an alternate build system (CMake,Meson, Ninja)
Experience working in a team environment on a common codebase.
A technical leader who enjoys mentoring junior developers and engineers and collaborating across teams

Bonus:

Experience working with robotics / autonomous vehicle data
Experience working with the gRPC and google protobuf
Knowledge of front-end technologies or worked closely with front-end developers
Familiar with metrics collection and logging using tools such as Grafana and InfluxDB
Experience working with Linux
Experience working with Docker and Docker Compose
Experience working with Git
Familiar with working with CI/CD pipelines (github actions, CircleCI, Jenkins)
Familiarity with microservice architectures

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Lead Technical Program Manager

We are seeking a strategic and highly organized Lead Technical Program Manager to drive the execution of our technology from R&D milestones to commercial deployment.Position Summary:The Lead Technical Program Manager is responsible for overseeing the successful and timely execution of all DAC projects at 280 Earth. This critical leadership role spans from R&D and pilot plant deployments to the commissioning of early commercial facilities. You will ensure that all projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and meet rigorous technical performance targets, aligning our execution with strategic goals for future funding and market entry.Compensation: $230k – $250k Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Oversight: As the company’s foundational Technical Program Manager, you will establish the program management function and be responsible for its success. This role includes the opportunity to build and lead a TPM team as the company grows. You will also oversee the Plant Manager responsible for DAC facility deployment and operations.
Project Management Methodology: Develop, implement, and refine project management methodologies tailored for a fast-moving, innovative deep-tech startup environment.
Comprehensive Program Execution: Personally drive all aspects of program execution, including detailed planning, scheduling, resource allocation, proactive risk management, and diligent progress tracking.
Stakeholder Interface: Act as the key communication hub between internal technical teams, commercial teams, and crucial external stakeholders, including site partners and EPC contractors.
Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Drive effective communication, collaboration, and coordination across all engineering and scientific disciplines involved in our technology development and deployment.
Budget & Milestone Monitoring: Diligently monitor project budgets and track progress against the critical technical milestones essential for securing subsequent funding rounds and ensuring investor confidence.

Required Experience:

BS in an engineering or related technical field; MS or MBA is a strong plus.
10+ years of experience in technical program management, preferably in a field involving complex hardware development, capital projects, or process plant engineering.
5+ years of experience in a leadership capacity, demonstrating the ability to drive complex projects and influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Proven track record of successfully leading complex, multi-disciplinary projects from concept through to commissioning and operation.
Deep expertise in project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., Jira, Smartsheet, MS Project). PMP certification is highly desirable.
Experience managing large project budgets and complex schedules with critical dependencies.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to navigate and influence internal and external stakeholders.

This is a full-time position with a competitive salary and benefits package, including RSUs. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a team that has the potential to revolutionize the climate industry. If you have a passion and a keen interest in sustainable energy solutions, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. 280 Earth is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. 280 Earth will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Chemistry Lead

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Chemistry Lead to join our innovative team and drive the core chemical advancements of our mission.

Position Summary:

The Chemistry Lead will manage our dedicated chemistry team and oversee all chemical aspects integral to 280 Earth’s DAC technology. This critical role involves leading sorbent development, managing external vendor relationships and strategic partnerships, and defining the process chemistry for efficient CO₂ capture and release. You will be instrumental in advancing the materials and processes that are the foundation of our technology

Compensation:

$230k – $265k

Responsibilities:

Team Leadership & Management: Lead, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of research scientists and chemists, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.
Sorbent R&D Oversight: Direct all research and development for novel solid sorbent materials, prioritizing formulations with high CO₂ capacity, enhanced durability, and favorable regeneration energetics.
Lifecycle & Degradation Analysis: Spearhead research to understand sorbent degradation mechanisms and develop innovative strategies to significantly extend the operational lifetime of our chemical components.
Material Selection & Process Chemistry: Provide expert guidance on material selection for all DAC components and define the core process chemistry for optimal CO₂ capture and release.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with hardware and software engineering teams to ensure the seamless integration of chemical processes with DAC unit design, control systems, and sensor feedback.
Strategic Partnerships & Vendor Management: Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with academic institutions, national labs, and industrial partners to accelerate R&D. Oversee relationships with material vendors to ensure a robust and high-quality supply chain.
Scale-Up & Quality Control: Oversee the successful scale-up of sorbent production and implement robust quality control measures to ensure consistency and peak performance.

Required Experience:

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with 8+ years of industrial R&D experience, OR a Master’s degree in a related field with 12+ years of relevant industrial experience.
3+ years of experience in a leadership or management role, with demonstrated success in mentoring and developing a technical team.
Proven experience in establishing and managing strategic partnerships, joint development agreements, or collaborations with external research institutions or commercial entities.
Deep expertise in sorbent technology, material characterization techniques, and process chemistry.
Experience with vendor relations, supply chain management, and scaling up chemical production processes.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across interdisciplinary teams.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Sr. CAD Engineer

We are seeking a meticulous and highly experienced Senior CAD Engineer with deep expertise in SolidWorks to join our hardware team and help bring our innovative designs to life

Position Summary:

The Senior CAD Engineer will be responsible for creating, managing, and detailing the mechanical designs that form the backbone of our DAC technology. This role is central to our engineering process, focusing on the production of high-quality 3D models and 2D manufacturing drawings. You will work in close collaboration with our hardware engineers to translate concepts into precise, manufacturable components and assemblies.

Compensation:

$160k – $180k

Responsibilities:

3D Modeling: Create and modify complex 3D models of mechanical parts and large assemblies using SolidWorks, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design intent.
2D Drawings & Documentation: Generate detailed 2D manufacturing drawings, including proper dimensioning, tolerancing (GD&T), and material specifications in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards.
CAD Library & PDM Management: Maintain and organize our CAD library of standard parts and manage design data within our Product Data Management (PDM) system to ensure version control and data integrity.
Design Collaboration: Work directly with hardware engineers to iterate on designs, providing feedback on manufacturability and helping to resolve design challenges.
Bill of Materials (BOM) Creation: Develop and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) for all assemblies within the CAD system.
Drawing Review: Perform peer reviews of drawings and models to ensure they are complete, accurate, and meet company standards before release.

Required Experience:

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical field, or equivalent professional experience.
5+ years of professional experience in a mechanical design or drafting role using SolidWorks.
Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks for both part/assembly modeling and 2D drawing creation.
Strong understanding and practical application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Experience with PDM or PLM systems for CAD data management.
Familiarity with common manufacturing processes such as machining, sheet metal fabrication, and welding.
Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Sr. Hardware Engineer

We are seeking a creative and experienced Sr. Hardware Engineer to join our innovative team and take a leading role in the design and development of our core technology. The Sr. Hardware Engineer will focus on the mechanical and thermal design, analysis, testing, and integration of components and subsystems for our DAC units. This hands-on role involves detailed engineering of key elements like air-handling systems, vessels, structures, and thermal management solutions to ensure robust, efficient, and manufacturable designs.

Compensation:

$195k – $225k

Responsibilities:

Mechanical Design & Analysis: Design and analyze mechanical components and assemblies for DAC units, including structures, enclosures, and mechanisms, using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) and FEA tools.
Thermal System Design: Design and optimize thermal management systems, including heat exchangers and insulation, to maximize the energy efficiency of the capture and release process.
Component Selection & Integration: Select, specify, and integrate standard mechanical components (e.g., fans, blowers, pumps, valves) based on performance requirements, reliability, and cost.
Prototyping & Testing: Build and test prototypes of mechanical and thermal subsystems. Develop test plans, analyze data to validate designs, and iterate to improve performance.
Manufacturing Support: Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and vendors to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturing (DFM) and to resolve any fabrication issues.
Failure Analysis & Troubleshooting: Investigate hardware failures, perform root cause analysis, and implement effective corrective actions to improve system reliability.
Documentation: Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including 3D models, 2D drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and test reports.

Required Experience:

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
5+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and product development.
Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and familiarity with FEA/CFD simulation tools.
Hands-on experience with building, testing, and troubleshooting mechanical prototypes and thermal systems.
Knowledge of a variety of manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, sheet metal, welding) and DFM principles.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced, and interdisciplinary team environment.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth.

Hardware Lead Engineer

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Hardware Lead to join our innovative team and drive the development of the physical systems at the heart of our mission.

Position Summary:

The Hardware Lead will manage our dedicated hardware engineering team, overseeing the complete lifecycle of our DAC units from concept to manufacturing. This role is responsible for the mechanical and thermal design of the core technology, including innovative air contactors, efficient sorbent regeneration systems, and overall system integration. You will be instrumental in bringing our DAC technology to life through rigorous design, prototyping, and testing.

Compensation:

$210k – $240k

Responsibilities:

Team Leadership & Management: Lead, manage, and mentor a multidisciplinary team of process, hardware, systems, and prototype engineers focused on developing and refining DAC equipment.

Mechanical & Thermal Design Oversight: Oversee the detailed mechanical and thermal design of core DAC components, such as air contactors, desorbers, and heat exchangers, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability.

Prototyping & Pilot Systems: Direct the build, assembly, and rigorous testing of prototype DAC units and pilot systems to validate designs and performance in real-world conditions.

Vendor Management & DFM/DFA: Manage relationships with key vendors for component fabrication and drive Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) and Design-for-Assembly (DFA) principles to optimize for production.

Cross-Team Collaboration: Collaborate closely with software and chemistry teams to ensure the seamless integration of hardware components with control systems and chemical processes.

Compliance & Standards: Ensure all hardware designs strictly comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and project-specific requirements.

Pilot Plant Technical Support: Coordinate and provide essential technical support for the ongoing operations of the Pilot Plant.Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative mechanical systems and structures for novel infrastructure projects.

Required Experience:

MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with 8+ years of industrial experience, OR a BS in a related field with 12+ years of relevant industrial experience.
3+ years of experience in a leadership or management role, guiding a technical team through complex engineering projects.
Proven expertise in the design, development, and testing of complex thermal-mechanical systems.
Strong experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor) and simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).
Demonstrated experience with DFM/DFA principles and managing external fabrication vendors.
Hands-on experience with prototyping, system assembly, and validation testing.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across interdisciplinary teams.

Please send resumes to careers@280.earth