Take your next step with Frontline BioEnergy, LLC

Become part of the Frontline team that is revolutionizing the energy industry! To apply or to inquire about opportunities, contact us at employment@frontlinebioenergy.com.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Frontline BioEnergy, LLC is engineering revolutionary technology and installing industrial systems in the renewable energy industry.  Frontline’s equipment and the associated projects convert low-value feedstocks into renewable, carbon negative chemicals and fuels. We are seeking a mechanical design professional to apply their CAD skills to assist in the engineering and design of industrial equipment and processes.  Come join our dynamic, growing team!

The primary role of this position is to use SolidWorks and/or Autodesk CAD design software to design efficient and cost-effective equipment, industrial piping, and process layouts and systems.  This is a full-time, on-site position at our facility in Nevada, Iowa. The Mechanical Designer Engineer will provide support for multiple projects and will be responsible for coordination to ensure effective communication with others on the engineering and design team.

Responsibilities:

  • Use SolidWorks or Autodesk CAD software to perform moderate to complex design tasks, equipment/process layout, site layout, pipe routing, pipe rack layout, and standard detail development
  • Create assembly and construction drawings with information sourced from PFDs, P&IDs, engineering calculations, vendor information, and ASME & ANSI specifications
  • Perform solid modeling of equipment, plant assemblies, and piping systems to include vessels, tanks, heat exchangers, and other equipment
  • Provide technical support, clarification, and interpretation of task, code, and standards requirements for all piping design and drafting activities
  • Coordinate and consult with engineers and designers on multiple projects simultaneously
  • Regularly perform duties safely and complete all required, basic safety training.

Essential qualifications:

  • Proficient with SolidWorks and/or AutoDesk CAD software
  • Knowledge and experience designing process vessels, tanks, heat exchangers, structural steel, and process piping generally acquired through (3+ years) experience with Mechanical Design and Drafting of industrial plants
  • Experience working with and interpreting process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Knowledge and application of carbon steel, alloys, and weldments for the design and fabrication of custom designed equipment
  • Strong aptitude for learning and problem-solving skills
  • Associate Engineering Technology degree and/or Computer Drafting and Design degree

Desired qualifications:

  • Certified SolidWorks Professional or equivalent certification
  • Understanding of piping design related codes, standards, and specifications
  • Experience with Smap3D
  • Working knowledge in process piping design in refinery or similar industrial markets sufficient to understand plant specific equipment (i.e., pumps, valves, reactors, columns, tanks, pipe supports, etc.)
  • Engineering Degree (BS Mechanical Engineering) a plus

Starting salary commensurate with experience.  Frontline BioEnergy offers competitive total compensation, and support is available for relocation expenses.

Engineering Internships – Summer 2026

We encourage chemical engineering and mechanical engineering students to apply to our Summer 2026 Internship program and Fall 2026 Coop program.  Internships will take place at Frontline’s headquarters near Nevada, IA.  Additional information about Frontline is available at www.frontlinebioenergy.com.

Interns will gain experience and expertise in thermal and chemical processes, and support the design, fabrication, and installation of industrial-scale processing systems to covert biomass and waste into fuels and chemicals. Each intern will be assigned an independent project to manage and then report out on at the conclusion of the paid, temporary appointment.

Chemical Process Engineering Interns will have the opportunity to assist in the operation of Frontline’s state-of-the-art BING® gasification research and development pilot plant, an integrated biomass gasification platform for renewable fuels synthesis; this work may include shift work and flexible schedules. Specific tasks may include to collect operating data, assist in the analysis of results, calculate heat and material balances on the unit, and write reports summarizing pilot plant test campaigns. The positions require independent judgment to assure the required raw data is collected and recorded reliably, with attention to detail and good organizational skills. The results of the data analysis help contribute to Frontline’s successful design and operation of its 1200 ton per day commercial units.

Mechanical Engineering Interns’ activities may include pressure vessel calculations, pipe sizing, structural steel design, and fabrication shop support to assist in the design and installation of industrial equipment. Interns may assist in the specification and procurement of materials, as well as other engineering duties. The positions require independent judgement and attention to detail as well as good organizational skills.

Safety training is provided; safety training and PPE is required.

Applicant Qualifications

Applicants must have completed their sophomore year of college by May 2026.  Applicants must be attending an Iowa college or university OR must be an Iowa resident if attending an out-of-state college or university.  Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (out of 4.0). A demonstrated work record in agriculture, construction, or other industrial setting is preferred, but not required.

Resume Submission

Qualified applicants should submit their resumes, work history, most recent transcripts, and description of career interests by 9/30/2025. Frontline will review submitted information and follow up with applicants by or before 10/24/2025.

Frontline is always on the lookout for self-motivated, teachable, detail-oriented people with good communication skills, ability to work within a team, and a commitment to surpassing customer expectations. If you are interested in joining the team, send your resume to employment@frontlinebioenergy.com.

Qualified candidates for any position should email their resumes with salary history or salary expectations to: employment@frontlinebioenergy.com.