Job Summary The Director of Commercial Engineering is responsible for leading the engineering strategy and activities that support the commercialization and scale-up of Claros' PFAS destruction technology. This role also serves as the bridge between Research & Development (R&D), product development, our pilot and applications teams, and commercial growth - ensuring Claros delivers scalable, cost-effective, and market-ready solutions.
Working closely with teams from Engineering, Operations, and R&D, this leader will drive the transition of emerging technologies into commercial systems, establish engineering standards and processes, and build a high-performing engineering organization focused on growth, innovation, and customer success.
Key Responsibilities Engineering Leadership
- Build, develop, and lead a high-performing engineering team focused on commercialization, product development, and technical excellence.
- Mentor engineers and technical professionals through effective coaching, professional development, and performance management.
- Support customer projects at pilot and commercial scale
- Manage engineering priorities, resources, and budgets to achieve company objectives and commercialization milestones.
- Coordinate external engineering firms, consultants, and technical partners as needed.
- Lead vendor, fabricator, and equipment supplier relationships to meet business needs.
Commercialization & Product Development
- Support engineering efforts to transition PFAS destruction technologies from pilot-proven concepts into scalable commercial products.
- Develop standardized system designs, technical specifications, and product platforms that support repeatable and efficient deployment across markets.
- Drive product improvements related to performance, reliability, manufacturability, energy efficiency, and cost reduction.
- Establish engineering best practices, design standards, and quality processes that support long-term growth and scalability.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Collaborate with the Research & Development (R&D) team to translate scientific advancements and emerging technologies into commercially viable products and solutions.
- Partner with Business Development to provide technical leadership during customer evaluations, proposal development, technology reviews, and commercial negotiations.
- Work closely with Operations and Implementation teams to ensure products are designed for efficient deployment, operation, and maintenance.
- Serve as a key technical resource for customers, partners, and stakeholders.
Strategy & Business Growth
- Develop engineering road maps aligned with company strategy, market opportunities, and customer needs.
- Evaluate emerging technologies, industry trends, and market developments to identify opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Develop and manage engineering cost models, capital planning activities, and technology investment priorities.
- Support strategic partnerships and technology collaborations that accelerate commercialization efforts.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure commercial products and systems comply with applicable environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Support compliance with relevant technical codes in the United States and Europe.
- Identify technical, operational, and business risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Establish performance metrics and quality standards to ensure successful product adoption and customer outcomes.
Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, process engineering, or a related technical field required.
- 10+ years of progressive engineering experience within industrial technology, water treatment, environmental technology, chemical processing, or related industries. Experience in wastewater management is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience commercializing new technologies and translating R&D innovations into market-ready commercial products.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and managing complex technical projects.
- Strong understanding of process engineering, reactor systems, water treatment technologies, and system integration.
- Experience developing engineering standards, cost models, and scalable product platforms.
- Excellent communication, leadership, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Experience working in startup, growth-stage, or rapidly scaling technology organizations preferred
- Experience with wastewater treatment and environmental process technologies, including development, scale-up, and commercialization of engineered treatment systems for industrial customers
Benefits - Competitive compensation: $130,000 - $155,000
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and company holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development
- Company-sponsored training and certifications (e.g., forklift operation)
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment
Location: On-site at Claros Headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota Travel: Will be required periodically for client visits, industry events, or conferences
Visit www.clarostech.com to learn more about our mission and impact.
