Postdoctoral CFD Analyst

at  VulcanX

COMPANY OVERVIEW

VulcanX Energy Corp. leads the industry with its groundbreaking patented technology, focused on the efficient production of low-cost, low-emission hydrogen and solid carbon through natural gas pyrolysis (thermal cracking). Building on substantial advancements achieved in the laboratory, as well as successful de-risking in the hydrogen production demonstration plant, VulcanX is now poised to further scale its natural gas pyrolysis technology. Our current focus lies in the development of FEED and detailed engineering designs for our pre-commercial plant, marking a pivotal phase in the de-risking process and paving the way for widespread commercialization. This pre-commercial facility is designed to yield high-purity hydrogen, directly meeting the needs of end-users and positioning VulcanX as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a highly qualified Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analyst to join our dynamic team and support the research and development as well as FEED, detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and operations of VulcanX’s hydrogen production plants. As an integral member of the team, you will have the opportunity to be involved in the design of this novel technology. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of academic or industrial experience in CFD simulation, thermos-fluid mechanics, heat transfer, kinetic modeling, and multi-phase flow simulation. Having expertise in high-temperature hydrocarbon pyrolysis, corrosive environments, and a deep understanding of hydrogen systems is a merit. The CFD analyst will work with the R&D team to design the third-generation prototype reactor to enhance the hydrogen yield and improve its thermal efficiency.

QUALIFICATIONS

• D. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Chemical Engineering or Applied Science
• Less than 3 years from the Ph.D. graduation
• 5+ years of relevant work experience in CFD simulation software such as Ansys Fluent, COMSOL, and Open Foam
• Experience in kinetic reaction modeling, such as Ansys Chemkin, and integration with CFD software
• Experience in developing User-Defined Functions (UDFs) to integrate with CFD software
• Having expertise in multi-phase flow simulation, kinetic modeling, and heat transfer
• Being familiar with the oil and gas industry, hydrogen and solid carbon production, and chemical process design, with a focus on pressure vessel systems and high-temperature hydrocarbon pyrolysis
• Experience in developing conceptual designs in emerging technologies would be considered an asset
• Previous experience in developing lab prototype systems, scale-up, and commercialization of emerging technologies is an asset.
• Experience in mechanical equipment design and material selection is preferred
• Hydrogen production experience would be considered an asset
• Fundamental understanding and application of engineering concepts, codes, design standards, and guidelines applicable to process engineering discipline
• Strong ability to track progress and prepare status reports.
• Ability to use judgment to solve problems based on engineering guidelines and procedures
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a high degree of professionalism
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently or as part of a team
• Ability to perform and complete multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Knowledge of project management principles and management of change is an asset.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, maintenance, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Demonstrate strong communication skills to effectively liaise with VulcanX’s leadership team, stakeholders, clients, and regulatory bodies.
• Provide support to the project team from conceptual design through to detailed engineering, construction support, and project commissioning and start-up.
• Prepare conceptual designs for the reactor system and assist in the development of preliminary studies by providing expertise on mechanical equipment and materials selection
• Provide expertise and recommendations on multi-phase simulation (solid-liquid-gas) of the reactor and heat transfer in the reactor system
• Develop mechanical equipment specifications and Request for Quote (RFQ) to support the R&D team
• Performing hydraulics calculations and stress analyses of critical pieces (reactor and piping systems) for the pyrolysis process plant
• Develop mechanical equipment data sheets for the prototype reactor
• Review design documents for vendor-supplied equipment to ensure compliance with legislative requirements and project specifications and coordinates further review by other relevant disciplines
• Assist in project scheduling and development of engineering and capital cost estimates
• Resolves problems using standard engineering procedures and previously developed methods
• Performs complex and detailed engineering calculations when required
• Assists in the review and preparation of project control documents and status reports
• Evaluate vendor quotations as well as liaise with the Procurement Department to purchase equipment
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, reliability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of the role.