Laboratory Technician

Green Recruitment Company; Hatching Green; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based applied science firm seeks a proactive Laboratory Technician to support a research project on gas-phase reactions. This interdisciplinary role combines experimental chemistry with programming, demanding hands-on problem-solving in a dynamic research environment. Key responsibilities include designing experimental setups, running chemical processes, and supporting data collection. Technical qualifications in chemistry or related fields are required, along with experience in mechanical assembly and basic electronics.

Qualifications

• Technical qualification or equivalent practical experience in chemistry, engineering, or electronics.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a hands-on, inquisitive mindset.
• Experience working with mechanical components.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and maintenance of experimental setups.
• Run chemical processes, including building and tuning.
• Fix, clean, and adjust reactor test beds.
• Program and maintain control systems for equipment.
• Collect and analyze data using custom scripts.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Hands-on experience

Basic electronics knowledge

Mechanical assembly skills

Education

Technical qualification in chemistry or related field

Tools

Python

Gas chromatographs

Raspberry Pi

Arduino

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