Laboratory Technician

Mission Zero Technologies; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

We’re a London-based climate tech startup working to reinvent carbon for a thriving planet. Since 2020, we have rapidly pioneered the world’s most versatile direct air capture (DAC) technology to recover historic CO₂ emissions from the atmosphere, anywhere at any scale. Backed by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, the XPRIZE foundation, Stripe, and the UK Government, we’ve moved a brand new climate technology from lab to commercial plants in under three years to rapidly empower carbon removal and sustainable utilisation.

About the role

You have the opportunity to join MZT at a pivotal point in our company's history - our transition from an early-stage R&D startup into a product offering, revenue-generating company poised to rapidly scale our direct-air capture technology across the world. You will work closely with the Senior Manager, facilities and H&S and other scientists and engineers in the R&D Team to carry out key operations and assist with the development of Mission Zero’s technology. This multifaceted role involves conducting established experiments, analysing samples, upholding laboratory standards, managing consumable inventories, and maintaining analytical and functional equipment.

What you'll be doing

• Conduct tests of prepared samples in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures;
• Assisting scientists and engineers in planning, designing, and executing research experiments, including development of new methods, validating new equipment or processes, and contributing to research projects;
• Mentoring and guiding junior technicians in laboratory procedures and safety protocols;
• Leading and organising the calibration of laboratory equipment (e.g. pH and conductivity meters, CO2 sensors, flow sensors, gas and ion chromatography, etc.);
• Assist in interpreting data, preparing reports, and presenting findings to stakeholders;
• Leading efforts in troubleshooting and resolving complex experimental or equipment issues;
• Adhering to all health and safety requirements set by the company;
• Sharing responsibility in monitoring and replenishing laboratory chemicals and consumables; includes maintaining records of orders for the technology team;
• Sharing responsibility for maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the laboratory and with equipment;
• Contribute ideas and suggestions to enhance laboratory operations.

What you'll need to be successful in this role

• HND/HNC or BSc/BEng or higher in a scientific or engineering discipline;
• Capable of working safely within the guidelines of risk assessments and COSHH assessments;
• Proven experience in laboratory settings, including proficiency with various equipment and techniques including maintenance and troubleshooting;
• Experience in leading and managing small teams, demonstrating the ability to delegate tasks, mentor team members, and promote a cooperative and team-oriented work atmosphere;
• Strong analytical abilities to interpret complex data and contribute meaningfully to research findings;
• Capability to logically address and effectively solve problems, particularly in situations involving unexpected experimental deviations or equipment issues;
• Ability to work independently on a day-to-day basis, requiring minimal guidance;
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing work environments and methodologies, an essential quality for thriving in startup companies.

Ideally you'll also have

• Experience with laboratory analytical equipment such as HPLC, IC, GC and Osmometer;
• Knowledge and/or experience with sustainable laboratory practices (e.g. waste reduction/energy efficiency);
• Creative problem-solving - someone who can think outside the box to develop new methods or refine existing procedures for efficiency and effectiveness;
• High level of initiative and commitment;

What we can offer you

• 30 days of Annual Leave;
• 3 months Paternity/Maternity Leave;
• £500 annual Learning & Development Grant;
• Unlimited mental health support;
• Employee Share Options Scheme;
• Christmas holidays office closure;
• Cycle to work scheme;
• Employer-matched contributions to global re-wilding programme;
• Opportunities to directly impact where our company is headed;
• A high-growth, high-trust environment that encourages bold creativity.

At Mission Zero, we value diversity of cultural backgrounds, experience, and perspectives, and leverage these qualities to create exceptional outcomes. We are dedicated to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, sex, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis as protected by applicable law. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation.

Our Hiring Process

Kindly allow us up to 2 weeks to review your application. Providing both of our schedules align, the total hiring process should take 4-6 weeks total to wrap up.

• Application review;
• Intro Call (45 Mins);
• Getting to know you - (Partner Assessment).