Laboratory Technician

Green Recruitment Company; Hatching Green; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a proactive Laboratory Technician to support research in gas-phase reactions. This role combines chemistry with hands-on equipment design and programming using Python. Ideal candidates should possess a technical qualification and experience with mechanical components. Join a dynamic environment focused on innovation and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Technical qualification or equivalent practical experience in chemistry or related discipline.
• Experience in working with mechanical components such as pipes, valves.
• Proficient in soldering with knowledge of basic electronics.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and maintaining experimental setups for gas-phase reactions.
• Run chemical processes and handle basic maintenance tasks.
• Program and operate control systems for experimental equipment.

Skills

Problem-solving abilities

Hands-on mindset

Mechanical components experience

Proficient in soldering

Education

Technical qualification in chemistry or related field

Tools

Python

Raspberry Pi

Arduino

Gas chromatographs

Job description

TGRC has partnered with a UK-based applied science and advanced engineering firm that specializes in developing industrial solutions through a multi-disciplinary approach across the automotive, aerospace, and chemical sectors. Positioned at the crossroads of sustainability and scalable innovation, the company empowers manufacturers to incorporate carbon-derived silica into a wide range of products - from tyres to touchscreens - while significantly reducing emissions.

We are looking for a proactive and detail-focused Laboratory Technician to support a research project focused on the kinetics of gas-phase reactions. This role is highly interdisciplinary, blending experimental chemistry, programming, and the design, construction, and testing of laboratory equipment. It offers a hands-on opportunity for creative problem-solving in a dynamic research environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the design, assembly, and maintenance of experimental setups for gas-phase reaction studies.
• Heavily involved in running chemical processes. Building, developing and tuning chemical processes.
• Involved in physical tasks such as fixing, cleaning, and adjusting the reactor test beds.
• Perform mechanical assembly tasks, including tool handling, pipework cutting, and basic electronics construction.
• Conduct system testing and execute chemical processes as developed by the research team.
• Work with gas handling systems, including the installation, modification, and troubleshooting of gas lines, valves, fittings, and tubing.
• Perform basic electronic assembly for custom sensors and data acquisition systems.
• Program, operate, and maintain control systems for experimental equipment.
• Support data collection and perform preliminary data analysis, including the development of custom scripts using Python.
• Operate and maintain gas chromatographs to ensure accurate analytical measurements.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to convert experimental hypotheses into functional prototypes.
• Ensure thorough documentation of experimental procedures, system configurations, and maintenance activities.
• Contribute to iterative improvements of experimental designs and resolve technical challenges in collaboration with the broader team.

Required Experience:

• Technical qualification or equivalent practical experience in chemistry, chemical engineering, electronics, physics, or a related discipline
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a hands-on, inquisitive mindset
• Experience working with mechanical components such as pipes, valves, and pressure fittings
• Proficient in soldering and knowledgeable in basic electronics fundamentals

Preferred Experience:

• Skilled in Python programming, particularly for hardware integration and data acquisition tasks
• Experience using control devices such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, or other microcontrollers
• Familiar with the operation and maintenance of gas chromatographs
• Basic understanding of physical chemistry and experience in wet chemistry lab environments
• Prior commercial or industry experience is an advantage