Saul Trujillo Lopez

Mechanical Engineer | Biogas Upgrading Plants

I am a Mechanical Engineering graduate from York University. With years of experience in the workplace, I have garnered many skills. I am eager to improve upon my expertise and for what the future holds.

In my current role as a Project Assistant for biogas upgrading plants, I have gained valuable experience in project coordination, hands-on field work, and client communication. Earlier in my career, I also contributed to materials research during my undergraduate studies, which gave me a solid foundation in product design and applying core engineering principles.

I have a strong interest in the energy sector, with experience in biogas upgrading and a growing curiosity across various areas including energy storage, oil and gas, solar, and nuclear. While I’m still exploring where to specialize, my long-term goal is to become a project manager overseeing the design and construction of energy facilities and infrastructure.

I look forward to being a part of innovative ideas while keeping future generations in mind.

Professional Experience

Project Assistant/Coordinator

Nov 2023 – Present

INFIBIT Inc. partnered with Ammongas A/S, Aurora

My experience at INFIBIT Inc. has provided comprehensive exposure to the design, installation, and commissioning of biogas upgrading plants. From preparing project proposals and developing detailed plant designs in AutoCAD to providing technical support to on-site teams, I have gained hands-on expertise in both engineering and project management processes.

Designing/Planning

In my role, I perform energy and mass balance calculations for biogas upgrading plants using Excel to support project proposals. I develop and interpret piping and instrumentation diagrams and create 3D plant models, including piping, pumps, heat exchangers, and vessels, using AutoCAD Plant 3D. Applying CSA C22.1 and API 505 standards, I assess operating conditions, identify hazardous zones, and produce general arrangement drawings with supporting documentation. I prepare equipment lists, commissioning checklists, procurement schedules, PIDs, and 3D model follow-up sheets to ensure accurate deliverables. I issue requests for quotation, lead technical discussions with engineers, and produce fabrication drawings with complete bills of materials to guide reliable component manufacturing. Throughout the design process, I coordinate cross-functional reviews, incorporating feedback to refine 3D models and optimize plant designs.

Installation

I travel to New York State, USA, to oversee the installation of biogas upgrading plants, supervising electrical, mechanical, and insulation work to ensure projects are completed on schedule and meet quality standards. I prepare documentation and lead regular meetings to communicate progress to the project manager, maintaining alignment across all stakeholders. Collaborating closely with project managers, on-site supervisors, and skilled laborers, I address unforeseen challenges while balancing budget, deadlines, safety, and operational requirements. I maintain strong professional relationships with clients, project managers, site supervisors, and field personnel to uphold company values and foster a positive corporate reputation. Additionally, I provide hands-on support including electrical work, control system troubleshooting, and pipe fitting, contributing practical expertise to ensure successful system integration and reliable plant functionality.

Commissioning

I resolve mechanical, process, and electrical issues while calibrating instrumentation to ensure reliable and compliant plant operation. I perform final adjustments to P&IDs, fluid concentrations, temperatures, and fluid levels to bring biomethane production within specification before handover to the client. I also develop comprehensive commissioning documentation to demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards, industry codes, and contractual requirements.

Technical Skills

I have extensive experience using engineering software and tools, including AutoCAD Plant 3D and AutoCAD Inventor for designing biogas upgrading plants, as well as MS Excel for calculations, data analysis, and modeling. I leverage MS Word and PowerPoint for technical documentation, presentations, and clear communication of complex engineering concepts. In process and mechanical engineering, I work on biogas upgrading systems, developing and interpreting P&IDs, sizing equipment, producing fabrication drawings, and creating and coordinating 3D models. My work also includes performing energy and mass balance calculations to optimize plant performance. In instrumentation and controls, I calibrate and troubleshoot gas analyzers, dew point sensors, valves, and other critical plant equipment, ensuring safe and reliable operations. Additionally, I have hands-on experience with stainless steel systems, preparing detailed bills of materials, and coordinating with vendors and fabricators to ensure components are manufactured accurately and reliably.

Standards and Compliance

I am well-versed in applying industry standards and codes, including ASME B31.1, API 505, and CSA C22.1, to ensure all designs and installations comply with regulatory requirements. I support procurement and project planning through RFQ preparation, procurement scheduling, and technical evaluation of suppliers and fabricators. My approach ensures that all project documentation, drawings, and plant designs adhere to both contractual obligations and industry best practices, contributing to safe, efficient, and fully compliant operations.

Professional Skills

I bring strong problem-solving abilities and a keen attention to detail to every project, coupled with self-motivation and a proactive approach to learning new technologies and methods. I collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, project managers, clients, and field personnel, ensuring smooth coordination across all stages of a project. My communication skills enable me to clearly convey technical concepts, facilitate design reviews, and provide guidance on operational and safety considerations. Additionally, I am proficient in Spanish, which allows me to engage with a broader range of colleagues and clients in international projects.