R&D Engineer

Kanadevia Inova seeks a Mid-Senior R&D Engineer in Zürich to develop waste-to-energy technologies, focusing on automation, process optimization, and hands-on implementation.

This position plays a key part in advancing the company’s mission to transform waste into valuable resources such as energy, heat, hydrogen, and fertilizer. As a global leader in waste infrastructure innovation, the company relies on this role to drive technical development and improve operational efficiency through advanced engineering solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test new technologies at the process, machine, sensor, and design levels.
• Take a hands-on approach to executing specific subprojects within larger initiatives.
• Review and update logic diagrams, human-machine interface inputs, alarm systems, and plant data streams.
• Refine, enhance, and integrate control algorithms to improve system performance.
• Conduct on-site tasks including installing and testing instrumentation, validating setups, and resolving technical issues.
• Assess existing operating processes to identify opportunities for increased automation.
• Analyze plant data to identify trends and suggest relevant statistical KPIs.
• Convert analytical findings into concrete work packages and actionable initiatives, then lead their execution.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering field such as process, automation, or mechanical engineering.
• Deep knowledge of process design and core disciplines including mechanics, chemistry, physics, and thermodynamics, specifically applied to waste-to-energy processes from delivery to combustion.
• At least five years of professional experience in engineering, technical solution development, automation, or applied R&D (TRL 6+).
• Strong grasp of the automation and digitalization landscape, including network communication, PLCs, and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to structure, manage, and contribute to complex R&D projects with strong analytical capabilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel to various European sites for prototype implementation, approximately 15% of the time.

About the company

Kanadevia Inova is recognized as a global innovation leader in the waste infrastructure sector. The organization is dedicated to building a sustainable future by leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation, particularly in the field of waste-to-X solutions.

• Commitment to creating a sustainable future through technological advancement.
• Leadership position in waste-to-X technology innovation.