Sr. Scientist

About AIRCO
AIRCO is a world leader in carbon conversion technology, paving the way to global energy security by transforming CO₂ into a valuable resource. Its proprietary AIRMADE™ Technology is an adaptable platform that allows any industry to efficiently produce high-demand, fully-formulated synthetic fuels from waste CO₂ and hydrogen.

The company has commercial partnerships with airlines including JetBlue and Virgin Atlantic, amongst others, and has been awarded multiple government contracts, including with NASA and the United States Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit. The company has received industry recognition through awards such as Time Best Inventions, Inc. Best in Business, Fast Company World Changing Ideas, and the XPrize for Carbon Removal.

AIRCO’s many accolades include winning the prestigious Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the Environmental Protection Agency in October 2023, an award given to organizations that reinvent processes to reduce the generation of hazardous substances and byproducts. AIRCO was also declared a winner for the World Economic Forum UpLink Sustainable Aviation Challenge, which accelerates the development of promising technology pathways that enable widespread uptake of SAF.

The Position

AIRCO is seeking a Senior Scientist to join our team. This role will report to the Director, Research, and will contribute to the development of heterogeneous catalysts for the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) from CO2, supporting AIRCO’s business Growth. This role is based in New Britain, PA with travel as needed to Brooklyn, NY.

What you get to do

• Design and execute experiments independently with minimal supervision to meet the project goals
• Synthesis, characterization, and testing of heterogeneous catalysts
• Catalyst stability testing and scale-up support 
• Record, analyze, interpret, and present data to stakeholders
• Supervise and mentor chemists and technicians involved in catalyst synthesis and testing
• Collaborate cross functionally with Development and Engineering teams

What you bring to AIRCO

• PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
• 0-5 years of post-doctoral, academic, or industrial experience in heterogeneous catalyst development in academic or industrial setting 
• Ability to work in a hands-on laboratory setting with minimal supervision
• Ability to learn new techniques related to catalyst synthesis and testing
• Maintain a safe and compliant working environment, adhering to all relevant regulations, standards, and guidelines
• Good communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team environment

Bonus Points 

• Prior experience in fixed-bed reactor set-up and maintenance
• Experience in characterization techniques such as BET, TPR, TGA, SEM, Mercury Porosimetry 

Working at AIRCO - In addition to standard medical and dental benefits, that kick in Day 1, we provide:

Comprehensive Health Benefits

• Full coverage for employee base premiums on health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 70% coverage for spouse and dependent base premiums.
• Choose between base plans or enhanced options to fit your needs.

Health Savings & Flexibility

• Access company-sponsored HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare and dependent care expenses.

Income Protection & Insurance

• Company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance.
• Optional Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance plans.

Time Off & Leave

• Flexible and generous paid time off, including national holidays and sick leave.
• Paid family leave to support you during important life moments.

Retirement Savings

• Tax-deferred 401(k) plan with a 3% company match to help you invest in your future.

Commuter Benefits

• Pre-tax savings on transit and parking, plus monthly company contributions.

Additional Perks

• Ancillary benefits through Sequoia, including pet insurance and financial wellness programs.
• Employee wellness program to support your well-being.Inclusive of Wellhub & One Medical. 
• Company-sponsored events and programs that promote an inclusive and values-driven workplace.
• In person weekly catered lunch every Wednesday.

At AIRCO we value employees for