Energy Systems Engineer at Aalto University

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Energy Systems Engineer
Company: Aalto University
Location: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland
Job Type: Full-Time (Project Employee/Project Specialist)
Category: Energy Systems, Research & Development
Date Posted: 2025-07-25
Experience Level: 2-5 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Analyze and optimize the AC-Comp system, a breakthrough technology using industrial waste heat to power gas compressors, reducing energy consumption and lowering operational costs.
Key Skills: Energy Systems, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Analytical Methods, Simulation Software, Problem-Solving, Collaboration, Prototype Development, Component Design, Performance Characterization, Commercialization, Waste Heat Recovery, Adsorption Processes.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

🔬 System-Level Analysis

Develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire AC-Comp process, modeling the dynamic relationship between heat transfer, fluid flow, and the adsorption/desorption cycle.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer to effectively model and analyze the complex system dynamics.

🛠 Support Prototype Development

Assist in the practical assembly, instrumentation, and experimental validation of the Proof-of-Concept (PoC).
📝 Enhancement Note: Hands-on experience in prototype development and experimental validation is crucial for this role to ensure the successful creation and testing of the PoC.

🛑 Identify and Resolve Bottlenecks

Use analytical methods or simulation tools to pinpoint the primary limitations on the system's efficiency and cycle time whenever necessary.
📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in using simulation software such as MATLAB/Simulink, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, or Python is essential for identifying and resolving system bottlenecks.

📐 Component Design Guidance

Provide analysis or empirical-driven recommendations for the design and optimization of the core components, such as heat exchangers, adsorbents, or adsorbates.
📝 Enhancement Note: Experience in heat exchanger design, adsorption processes, or related fields is beneficial for providing accurate and effective component design guidance.

📈 Performance Characterization

Define and calculate key performance indicators for the system according to industry requirements.
📝 Enhancement Note: Familiarity with industrial processes related to compressed air or waste heat recovery can help in defining relevant performance indicators and ensuring the system meets industry standards.

🤝 Support Commercialization Efforts

Collaborate with the team to provide technical data that answers key questions from potential industrial partners and customers, including system performance, capacity, and operational requirements under various industrial scenarios.
📝 Enhancement Note: A proactive and self-directed work ethic, along with a genuine interest in technology commercialization, is crucial for successfully supporting the commercialization efforts of the project.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education

A master's or PhD in Energy Systems, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.

Experience

Proven ability to model complex physical systems using analytical methods or simulation software.
Systematic and analytical approach to problem-solving.
Ability to work effectively in a small, collaborative R&D team with a hands-on attitude.
Legal authorization to work in Finland (EU/EEA citizenship or valid work permit).

Required Skills

Proven expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
Demonstrated ability to model complex physical systems using analytical methods or simulation software.
Strong problem-solving skills and a systematic approach to tackling challenges.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative R&D team environment.

Preferred Skills

Demonstrated knowledge of adsorption and desorption processes, including the underlying physical principles.
Practical or theoretical experience with heat exchanger design or analysis.
Familiarity with industrial processes related to compressed air or waste heat recovery.
Proactive and self-directed work ethic, suitable for an early-stage project with significant autonomy.
Genuine interest in technology commercialization and the potential to grow with the project into a future leadership role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A comprehensive understanding of the AC-Comp system, demonstrated through detailed analysis, modeling, and optimization efforts.
Evidence of successful prototype development and experimental validation in a relevant energy systems or process engineering context.
Examples of identified system bottlenecks, along with the analytical methods or simulation tools used to resolve them.
Case studies showcasing component design guidance, with a focus on heat exchangers, adsorbents, or adsorbates.
Performance characterization data, highlighting key performance indicators and industry-specific requirements.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed documentation of the system-level analysis, including assumptions, methodologies, and results.
Records of prototype development, instrumentation, and experimental validation processes.
Documentation of identified bottlenecks, along with the analytical methods or simulation tools used to address them.
Component design guidance reports, outlining the analysis, recommendations, and optimization efforts for key components.
Performance characterization reports, detailing the key performance indicators, industry-specific requirements, and testing methodologies employed.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a portfolio is not explicitly mentioned in the job listing, providing a comprehensive and well-structured project portfolio demonstrating the required skills and experiences will significantly strengthen the application.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is not explicitly stated in the job listing. However, based on industry standards for Energy Systems Engineers in Finland, the estimated salary range is €3,500 - €5,000 per month, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

A key technical role with a significant impact on the core technology of a promising deep-tech project.
A path to a founder role in a potential future spin-off company.
A collaborative environment with access to the expertise and resources of the originating laboratory and the broader Aalto University innovation ecosystem.
Focus on impact, contributing to developing a technology with clear potential to improve energy efficiency and sustainability in major industries.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this position are 40 hours per week, with a flexible start date between August and September 2025.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and benefits are estimated based on industry standards for Energy Systems Engineers in Finland. The actual salary and benefits package may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aalto University is a multidisciplinary research university located in Finland, focusing on science, technology, business, and art & design. The AC-Comp project falls under the Department of Mechanical Engineering, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

Company Size: Aalto University has approximately 11,000 students and 4,000 employees, providing a medium-sized university environment with ample opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Founded: Aalto University was established in 2010 through the merger of the Helsinki School of Economics, the Helsinki University of Technology, and the University of Art and Design Helsinki.

Team Structure:

The AC-Comp project is a small, focused team consisting of three members: the Energy Systems Engineer (this role), a Project Engineer, and an Assistant Professor.
The team works collaboratively, with the Energy Systems Engineer reporting directly to the Assistant Professor and working closely with the Project Engineer.

Development Methodology:

The AC-Comp project follows an iterative development process, with a strong emphasis on experimental validation and continuous improvement.
The team uses a combination of analytical methods, simulation tools, and practical prototyping to advance the technology from a laboratory prototype to a more robust, industrially relevant system.

Company Website: https://www.aalto.fi/

📝 Enhancement Note: Aalto University's research-focused culture and commitment to innovation provide an ideal environment for Energy Systems Engineers seeking to make a significant impact on cutting-edge technology projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: The Energy Systems Engineer role is an intermediate-level position, requiring a strong foundation in energy systems, process engineering, and mechanical engineering. This role provides an excellent opportunity for career progression, as the project aims to launch a spin-off company with a key role for the successful candidate.

Reporting Structure: The Energy Systems Engineer reports directly to the Assistant Professor leading the AC-Comp project and works closely with the Project Engineer. This reporting structure fosters a collaborative environment and ensures that the Energy Systems Engineer's contributions have a direct impact on the project's success.

Technical Impact: The Energy Systems Engineer's primary responsibility is to analyze and optimize the AC-Comp system, ensuring its technical viability and commercial potential. Their work directly influences the system's performance, efficiency, and overall impact on the energy industry.

Growth Opportunities:

Growth Opportunity 1 - Technical Leadership: As the project advances and the spin-off company is established, the Energy Systems Engineer may have the opportunity to take on a technical leadership role, overseeing the development and optimization of the core technology.
Growth Opportunity 2 - Entrepreneurship: With the potential to become a co-founder in the spin-off company, the Energy Systems Engineer can gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship, business development, and strategic decision-making.
Growth Opportunity 3 - Industry Expertise: By working closely with industrial partners and customers, the Energy Systems Engineer can develop a deep understanding of the energy industry, enabling them to identify new opportunities and drive innovation in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AC-Comp project offers a unique opportunity for career growth, with a clear path to a founder role in a potential spin-off company. This role provides an ideal platform for Energy Systems Engineers seeking to advance their careers and make a significant impact on the energy industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The AC-Comp project is based at Aalto University's Otaniemi campus in Espoo, Finland, providing a modern and collaborative work environment for Energy Systems Engineers.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Aalto University, Otaniemi, Espoo, Finland. However, the project may require occasional travel to industrial partners, customers, or research conferences.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Workspace: The Energy Systems Engineer will work in a collaborative workspace, sharing an office with the Project Engineer and having regular interactions with the Assistant Professor leading the project.
Development Tools: The team uses a combination of analytical methods, simulation tools, and practical prototyping to advance the technology. Energy Systems Engineers can expect to work with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, Python, and other relevant software.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Energy Systems Engineers will collaborate with various teams, including mechanical engineers, materials scientists, and business developers, to ensure the successful development and commercialization of the AC-Comp technology.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, with a flexible start date between August and September 2025. The work schedule may vary depending on project milestones and experimental validation requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aalto University's modern and collaborative work environment, coupled with the project's flexible work schedule, provides an ideal setting for Energy Systems Engineers to thrive and make a significant impact on the AC-Comp project.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Applicants will be screened based on their CV and cover letter, focusing on relevant experience, education, and salary expectations.
Technical Phone/Video Interview: Shortlisted candidates will participate in a technical phone or video interview, focusing on their understanding of energy systems, process engineering, and relevant technical skills.
On-Campus Interview: Top candidates will be invited to Aalto University's Otaniemi campus for an on-campus interview, including a presentation of the AC-Comp project and a discussion of the candidate's fit for the role.
Final Decision: The hiring team will make a final decision based on the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with the project's goals and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight relevant projects and case studies demonstrating the candidate's ability to analyze, optimize, and prototype energy systems.
Include examples of successful collaboration with cross-functional teams, showcasing the candidate's ability to work effectively in a small, focused R&D team.
Emphasize any experience with waste heat recovery, adsorption processes, or related technologies to showcase the candidate's relevance to the AC-Comp project.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles, as these form the foundation of the AC-nbsp;Energy Systems Engineer role.
Familiarize yourself with the AC-Comp project, understanding the underlying technology, its potential impact, and the project's goals and objectives.
Prepare for questions related to system-level analysis, prototype development, and commercialization, as these are key aspects of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AC-Comp project's interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with the project's goals and values. By thoroughly preparing for the interview and showcasing relevant experience and skills, candidates can increase their chances of success in the hiring process.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Energy Systems & Process Engineering Tools:

MATLAB/Simulink: A versatile software suite for numerical computing, visualization, and simulation, widely used in energy systems and process engineering for modeling and analysis.
Aspen Plus: A process simulation software suite for designing, analyzing, and optimizing chemical, petrochemical, and related processes.
COMSOL Multiphysics: A multiphysics simulation software suite for modeling and simulating various physical phenomena, including heat transfer, fluid flow, and adsorption processes.
Python: A popular programming language with extensive libraries and frameworks for data analysis, machine learning, and automation, widely used in energy systems and process engineering.

Mechanical Engineering & Design Tools:

SolidWorks: A 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software suite for mechanical design, simulation, and manufacturing.
AutoCAD: A computer-aided design and drafting software application for 2D and 3D design and drafting, widely used in mechanical engineering and architecture.

Experimental Equipment & Measurement Tools:

Gas Chromatography (GC): A powerful analytical technique used to separate and analyze compounds in a mixture, widely used in energy systems and process engineering for analyzing gas compositions and purity.
Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy: A powerful analytical technique used to identify and quantify compounds in a mixture, widely used in energy systems and process engineering for analyzing gas compositions and purity, as well as monitoring adsorption and desorption processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AC-Comp project requires a strong foundation in energy systems, process engineering, and mechanical engineering tools. Familiarity with relevant software, experimental equipment, and measurement tools is essential for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Energy Systems & Process Engineering Values:

Innovation: A strong commitment to pushing the boundaries of energy systems and process engineering, driving progress through continuous improvement and technological advancements.
Collaboration: A culture of open communication, active listening, and mutual respect, fostering a collaborative environment for Energy Systems Engineers to thrive.
Expertise: A deep understanding of energy systems, process engineering, and related technologies, enabling Energy Systems Engineers to make informed decisions and contribute to the project's success.
Sustainability: A dedication to developing energy-efficient and environmentally responsible technologies, with a focus on reducing energy consumption, lowering operational costs, and supporting sustainability goals across multiple sectors.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Energy Systems Engineers will work closely with mechanical engineers, materials scientists, and business developers, ensuring that the AC-Comp technology meets the needs of industrial partners and customers.
Code Review Culture: The AC-Comp project follows a collaborative development process, with a strong emphasis on code review, peer programming, and continuous improvement.
Knowledge Sharing: Energy Systems Engineers are encouraged to share their expertise and insights with the team, fostering a culture of learning and growth within the project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AC-Comp project's collaborative culture, emphasis on innovation, and commitment to sustainability provide an ideal environment for Energy Systems Engineers to grow both personally and professionally.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

System-Level Analysis Challenge: Developing a comprehensive understanding of the AC-Comp system, modeling the dynamic relationship between heat transfer, fluid flow, and the adsorption/desorption cycle.
Prototype Development Challenge: Assembling, instrumenting, and experimentally validating the Proof-of-Concept (PoC) in a laboratory setting, ensuring the system's technical viability and commercial potential.
Component Design Challenge: Providing analysis or empirical-driven recommendations for the design and optimization of core components, such as heat exchangers, adsorbents, or adsorbates.
Performance Characterization Challenge: Defining and calculating key performance indicators for the system according to industry requirements, ensuring the AC-Comp technology meets relevant standards and specifications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Energy Systems Engineers can develop their skills in energy systems, process engineering, and related technologies, gaining valuable experience in a cutting-edge research project.
Entrepreneurship & Business Development: With the potential to become a co-founder in the spin-off company, Energy Systems Engineers can gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship, business development, and strategic decision-making.
Industry Expertise: By working closely with industrial partners and customers, Energy Systems Engineers can develop a deep understanding of the energy industry, enabling them to identify new opportunities and drive innovation in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AC-Comp project presents numerous technical challenges and growth opportunities for Energy Systems Engineers. By embracing these challenges and leveraging the project's learning and development opportunities, Energy Systems Engineers can make a significant impact on the energy industry and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

System-Level Analysis: Can you walk us through your approach to analyzing the AC-Comp system from a holistic perspective, focusing on the interplay between heat transfer, fluid flow, and the adsorption/desorption cycle?
Prototype Development: Describe your experience with prototype development and experimental validation in an energy systems or process engineering context. How would you approach the assembly, instrumentation, and testing of the AC-Comp Proof-of-Concept (PoC)?
Component Design: Can you discuss your experience with heat exchanger design or analysis, and how you would apply this knowledge to the design and optimization of the AC-Comp system's core components?
Performance Characterization: How would you define and calculate key performance indicators for the AC-Comp system, ensuring it meets relevant industry requirements and standards?

Company & Culture Questions:

Project Alignment: How do you see your role in the AC-Comp project contributing to the project's goals and values, and how would you ensure your work aligns with the project's objectives?
Collaboration & Communication: Describe your experience working in a small, collaborative R&D team, and how you would ensure effective communication and collaboration with the AC-Comp project team.
Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Can you provide an example of a complex technical challenge you faced in a previous role and how you approached it, demonstrating your adaptability and problem-solving skills?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

System-Level Analysis: Highlight your system-level analysis and modeling efforts, demonstrating your ability to analyze complex energy systems and develop comprehensive solutions.
Prototype Development: Showcase your prototype development and experimental validation experience, emphasizing your hands-on approach to engineering and your ability to deliver tangible results.
Component Design: Present your component design and optimization work, focusing on heat exchangers, adsorbents, or adsorbates, and demonstrating your ability to provide data-driven recommendations for core component design.
Performance Characterization: Highlight your performance characterization efforts, emphasizing your ability to define key performance indicators, ensure industry compliance, and optimize system performance.