R&D Engineer

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Kanadevia Inova North America is seeking an R&D Engineer for a full time onsite role in Zürich to advance waste-to-X technology. You’ll develop technology at the process, machine, design, and sensor levels, execute subprojects hands on, optimize control algorithms, install and test instrumentation on site, and turn plant data into actionable initiatives and KPIs. The position requires a Master’s or PhD in process, automation, or mechanical engineering, at least five years of relevant experience (TRL 6+), a solid grasp of process design and the waste-to-energy value chain, and strong automation and instrumentation know how. Travel across Europe is about 15%. If you’re collaborative, self driven, and thrive managing complex R&D programs, you’ll fit well. Apply directly with concrete project examples; agencies will not be considered.

Company Description

Welcome to Kanadevia Inova, a global innovation leader in the waste infrastructure space, where we believe in creating a sustainable future through technology and innovation. 

Transforming Waste into Value

At Kanadevia Inova, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of waste-to-X technology. We are not just waste managers; we are creators of value from what communities discard. Your role at Kanadevia Inova directly contributes to turning something once considered useless - waste - into something invaluable: energy, heat, hydrogen, fertilizer, and beyond.

Job Description

• Develop technology (on process and machine/design/sensor level) and implement/test
• Execute subprojects hands-on
  • Analyze and amend logic diagrams, human inputs, alarms, plant data
  • Optimize, further develop and integrate control algorithms
  • Execute on-site activities (install/test instrumentation, validate setups, troubleshoot issues)
• Evaluate current operating processes and systems with focus on increasing automation level
• Dive into plant data, extract trends, propose statistical KPIs
• Translate findings into actionable initiatives, work packages, and execute them

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline (process, automation, mechanical)
• Strong understanding of general process design and underlying disciplines (mechanics, chemistry, physics and thermodynamics) – focus on application in waste to energy process from waste delivery to combustion
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in engineering and development of technical solutions, automation or applied R&D (TRL 6+)
• Has a solid understanding of automation/digitalization landscape (network & communication, PLC, instrumentation)
• Has proven hands-on experience in structuring, managing and contributing to complex R&D projects with strong analytical thinking
• Is collaborative, self-driven, solution-oriented, and comfortable working autonomously
• Must be able to travel to sites across Europe for site implementation of prototype solutions (~15%)

Additional Information

For HR agencies: Please note that we do not accept applications coming from agencies. Thank you.