Job Description

About Us:

We're a Colorado-based chemical manufacturing and R&D company specializing in natural product extraction and advanced therapeutics. We are in the process of building a high-throughput mitragynine (kratom) extraction facility capable of producing 100 kg/day. To lead this project, we're seeking an experienced Chemical Engineer with a strong track record of lab/facility buildouts, fire code compliance, and process cost optimization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the full buildout of a large-scale botanical extraction lab from design to operational launch.
• Ensure all systems and workflows comply with 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) and hazardous material regulations.
• Communicate directly with contractors (mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, automation) to coordinate buildout execution.
• Interface with local Fire Department and Building Officials to obtain permits, submit drawings, and pass inspections.
• Translate internal extraction methodology into a scalable, code-compliant manufacturing process.
• Develop and maintain cost of goods sold (COGS) spreadsheets, helping the team reduce manufacturing costs and improve throughput efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings in equipment selection, facility layout, and process design.
• Draft SOPs and contribute technical documentation for regulatory and quality systems.

Requirements

Required:

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• 5-10 years of experience in chemical or botanical facility design, engineering, or operations.
• Proven experience leading at least one or two facility or lab buildouts, with the ability to provide examples and project outcomes.
• Familiarity with IFC 2018 and successful coordination with AHJs, fire marshals, or municipal permitting offices.
• Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate multiple contractors across disciplines.
• High proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets for COGS analysis and process modeling.

Preferred:

• Experience in botanical extraction (e.g., kratom, cannabinoids, essential oils) or natural product manufacturing.
• Familiarity with continuous extraction systems, solvent recovery, and GMP-lite environments.
• Experience working under 21 CFR 111/117 or similar regulatory frameworks.
• PE license or equivalent hands-on project engineering credentials.

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Job Tags

Full time, For contractors, Local area,

Similar Jobs