Refractory Engineer

About RedoxBlox, Inc.

Located in San Diego, Redoxblox is pioneering a new class of low-cost thermochemical energy storage systems (TCES) designed to accelerate industrial decarbonization and address long duration energy storage needs for the grid. The company’s TCES units store energy both chemically and as heat at very high temperatures that can be discharged continuously or as needed directly into industrial processes or as an energy source for electricity generation. The system can be fast charged when electricity prices are low or during surplus renewables generation and discharged as needed. Redoxblox is backed by Prelude Ventures, Khosla Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Imperative Ventures, and New System Ventures.

The Refractory Engineer will be a core team member responsible for developing, testing, and optimizing high-temperature refractory materials and insulation systems essential for thermochemical energy storage applications. This role involves designing innovative refractory solutions to improve the efficiency, durability, and thermal performance of energy storage prototypes and systems. Working within an R&D setting, the Refractory Engineer will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including chemical and mechanical engineers, to drive advancements in high-temperature materials and technologies.

• Material Research & Development: 
• Develop manufacturing techniques to fabricate large defect free refractories for high temperature applications.
• Stay informed of new refractory materials, coatings, and insulation technologies, and evaluate their applicability to thermochemical energy storage systems.
• Refractory Design & Material Selection: Design and select appropriate refractory materials and insulation systems suited for high-temperature systems, focusing on thermal efficiency, mechanical integrity, and resistance to degradation.
• Testing & Validation: Conduct rigorous testing on refractory materials to assess their thermal conductivity, chemical compatibility, and mechanical properties under high temperatures and cycling conditions.
• System Integration: Collaborate with engineers to integrate refractory solutions within energy storage prototypes, ensuring compatibility with thermochemical processes and optimized heat retention.
• Performance Optimization: Analyze thermal and mechanical performance data to enhance refractory efficiency, energy retention, and overall system durability.
• Documentation & Reporting: Document design processes, test results, and material specifications. Provide regular updates, technical reports, and design recommendations to R&D teams.
• Safety & Compliance: Ensure all refractory designs and materials comply with high-temperature safety standards and regulations, especially concerning heat retention, chemical reactivity, and environmental sustainability.
  

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, or a related field.

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in refractory engineering, material science, or high-temperature applications. Experience in energy storage, thermochemical systems, or related R&D environments is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
• Expertise in refractory materials, insulation, and high-temperature applications.
• Knowledge of material testing methodologies (e.g., XRD, TGA, thermal conductivity testing).
• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical skills to assess refractory performance under various thermal and mechanical stresses.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate complex technical information effectively in reports and team discussions.
• Attention to Detail: High precision in design, testing, and documentation to ensure consistency in research outcomes.
  

• Environment: Combination of lab, workshop, and field-based work. Exposure to high-temperature systems is expected.
• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with R&D teams, project engineers, and external partners.
  

• Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS) for thermal and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices in materials science, including recyclable and low-impact refractory materials.
• Experience in high-temperature applications relevant to industries such as energy storage, steel, or glass manufacturing.
• Knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations for refractory and high-temperature systems.
• Note: The Refractory Engineer will play a pivotal role in advancing the capabilities of our thermochemical energy storage technology, bringing innovative solutions to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge energy storage projects, contributing significantly to the future of clean energy.