Chief Engineer

First Principle has been retained by a Series A startup commercializing several thermochemical-driven systems that use breakthrough proprietary materials and process innovations to decarbonize heavy industry.

With significant funding from two of the largest industrial businesses in the world, this company is entering an aggressive phase of scale-up. Working hand in hand with the CEO and CTO, the Chief Engineer will lead the technology transition from pilot to commercial-scale deployment, leveraging a combination of hands‑on engineering, executive‑level technical strategy, and team leadership to bring entirely new industrial processes from 0 to 1.

• Lead all engineering, technical development, and project execution functions across the business, with particular emphasis on Process Engineering and EPC.
• Collaborate with the CEO, CTO, and executive team to define and execute the company’s technical and project‑scaling strategy.
• Drive alignment between R&D, manufacturing, and deployment teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and commercialization.
• Recruit and scale a high‑performance engineering and project delivery organization.
• Provide regular briefings to the Board of Directors, investors, and major partners on technical risk, development milestones, and project progress.

• 15+ years overseeing both R&D and Project Execution within Advanced Energy, Oil & Gas, Industrial Chemicals, or other areas of Heavy Industry.
• Proven FOAK project delivery, from R&D to full commercial operations.
• Prior C‑Level or VP‑level leadership of multi‑disciplinary engineering and project organizations, with direct experience overseeing projects >$100M single capex value.
• Track record of success in startups.

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of scaling what is likely to be a category‑leading innovation from a relatively ground‑floor level to mass deployment. You’ll have a true executive‑level seat with direct access to the board, investors, and an equity stake to participate in the success of the company over time.

If you want to build a team, chart a roadmap, and deliver real infrastructure in the fight to decarbonize heavy industry, apply or reach out today for more information.