Run Engineer / Field Engineer

Applied Carbon is harnessing the power of the biosphere to beat climate change. Working at the intersection of soil health and carbon removal, we’re building the world’s first in-field mobile biochar production system to unlock a new scalable market in sustainable agriculture. Biochar is a real climate and soil health solution today and one of the most promising solutions for addressing global climate change at scale. 

We've partnered with leading buyers of carbon removal credits, including as the largest biochar carbon removal supplier to Microsoft, to build a new type of business that helps farmers succeed while fighting climate change. Applied Carbon is a Series A stage company well-capitalized by top VC investors in climate tech, including Congruent Ventures, Grantham Foundation, and Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund. 

The Role

We are looking for hands-on engineers to play a pivotal role in our pioneering technology. As part of our team, you will commission and operate our state-of-the-art mobile pyrolysis systems in customer fields across the Southern United States, converting agricultural residue into biochar directly in the fields. Your responsibility for their precise and efficient operation, ensuring optimal performance and strict adherence to safety protocols, is crucial to our mission.

Join our world-class team at the intersection of soil health and carbon removal, helping to build an entirely new industry in sustainable agriculture.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations:

• Operate mobile pyrolysis systems through customer fields and at stationary sites, providing high-quality residue to biochar conversion.
• Operate agricultural equipment & machinery.
• Maintain detailed records of operations, maintenance activities, and issues encountered.
• Perform routine maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting on pyrolysis systems and ancillary equipment (e.g., tractors, forage harvesters, skid steers, conveyors)
• Take sample collections of soil, biomass, and biochar following correct procedures.
• Run lab analyses.
• Collect data and note observations in provided templates.
• Provide exceptional customer service through timely communication and addressing concerns.
• Promote a culture of safety by adhering to protocols and guidelines.
• Contribute to the upkeep of standard operating procedures.
• Adhere to project deadlines and meet deliverables.
• Demonstrate a quick and flexible approach to problem-solving.

Engineering:

• Monitor and interpret sensor data (temperatures, pressures, gas compositions) to maximize system efficiency.
• Assemble, test, commission, and troubleshoot prototype systems and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Assist in designing, setting up, and optimizing conveyance and collection systems for stationary/edge-of-field biochar production.
• Diagnose equipment and machinery problems, document malfunctions, and identify preventative solutions.
• Interpret technical documents (diagrams, schematics, assembly drawings) for assembly, wiring, and installation of heavy electro-mechanical equipment.
• Participate in design reviews.
• Carry out failure investigations and root cause analysis. Draft reports on findings.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to identify improvements and implement best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering field, preferably mechanical
• 2+ years of applicable experience
• Hands-on experience with electrical and mechanical systems
• Heavy travel required, particularly during May through to September (50-75% of the year)
• Available to work a rotating shift schedule

Preferred experience:

• Operation and maintenance of agricultural equipment or heavy machinery
• Experience with electric and hydraulic motors, gearboxes, chain and belt drives, screw conveyance, material conveyance
• Familiarity with automation and process control
• Ability to interpret sensor data to diagnose the operation of pyrolysis equipment

Work Environment:

• Regularly works around moving mechanical parts and in outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity. Noise level may be loud at times.
• Must be able to move objects and use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support over time without fatigue. Frequent movement and use of limbs; this position requires good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds

Benefits

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Health benefits (medical, dental, and vision)
• Flexible vacation & time-off policy
• 401(k) with match
• End-of-year performance-based bonus