Operator

Medium; Brighton (CO); On-site; USD 48,216 - 55,104; Full time

Job summary

Zero Carbon Systems seeks an Operator to operate and monitor Direct Air Capture (DAC) R&D equipment in Brighton, CO. This full-time position is based onsite and supports new rig construction, ensures safe and efficient plant operations, and performs routine inspections with engineering staff.

The ideal candidate brings hands-on mechanical experience, a strong safety mindset, and the initiative to work independently in a fast-moving environment. Reports to the Operations Engineering Manager.

Qualifications

• Hands-on mechanical experience with industrial process equipment.
• Ability to read P&IDs and mechanical drawings.
• Adherence to SOPs and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor DAC R&D equipment onsite in Brighton, CO.
• Perform routine inspections and data collection with engineering staff.
• Coordinate with engineers for experimental trials and data quality.
• Safety-focused startup/shutdown of pumps and related equipment.
• Document inspections and maintenance in CMMS.
• Assist with equipment repairs and downtime reduction.

Skills

Industrial equipment operation

Mechanical assembly

Reading P&IDs

Safety compliance

Communication

Measurement & metrology

Tools

CMMS

HMI / SCADA

3D models / drawings

Job description

About Zero Carbon Systems

Zero Carbon Systems (ZCS) is a clean energy and direct air capture company on a mission to accelerate the transition to a zero carbon future. We are developing and deploying breakthrough technologies designed to reduce atmospheric CO2 at scale, addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Backed by mission aligned investors and led by a team of passionate innovators, ZCS sits at the intersection of cutting edge science and real world impact. We are building a diverse, collaborative, and driven team of individuals who share our commitment to excellence, creativity, and the belief that the work we do today will shape the world of tomorrow.

If you are energized by meaningful work and want to be part of a company where your contributions directly advance the clean energy transition, we would love to hear from you.

Position Overview:

Zero Carbon Systems seeks an Operator to operate and monitor Direct Air Capture (DAC) R&D equipment in Brighton, CO. This role supports new rig construction, ensures safe and efficient plant operations, and performs routine inspections of mechanical and liquid distribution systems, collaborating with engineering staff to support testing, data collection, and ongoing development efforts within the rapidly evolving Direct Air Capture industry. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on mechanical experience, a strong safety mindset, and the initiative to work independently in a fast‑moving environment. This full‑time position is based onsite in Brighton, CO, and reports to the Operations Engineering Manager.

Responsibilities Include:

• Participate in new rig builds for next‑generation carbon capture systems by following P&IDs, assembly drawings, and 3D models provided by engineering staff
• Monitor and control equipment parameters, adjusting control systems for automated and manually controlled systems
• Coordinate with staff engineers to perform experimental trials and ensure high quality data generation
• Conduct visual and analytical inspections as part of in‑process quality checks
• Safely transfer chemicals between containers or systems using approved equipment and methods
• Perform preliminary troubleshooting to identify root causes of equipment failures
• Perform safe startup, shutdown, and operation of pumps, fans, boilers, air compressors, and related equipment
• Become cross‑trained in multiple DAC systems
• Contribute to plant operations, production, and testing activities
• Change out valves, seals, flow meters, and other mechanical components with support from the Maintenance team and Engineers
• Utilize the Computerized Maintenance Management Software (CMMS) to document inspection and maintenance tasks
• Assist with coordination of repairs on production equipment
• Respond to time‑sensitive alerts and take corrective action
• Work efficiently to minimize plant downtime
• Understand and follow OSHA, EPA, and company‑specific safety procedures for hazardous materials
• Provide input on tools or devices which can improve workflow
• Engage in startup and safety review for key equipment
• Provide feedback on equipment design, operability and maintainability to design team
• Collect samples and perform analytical tests

Requirements Include:

• 5+ years of experience operating industrial process equipment
• Proficiency in assembling complex mechanical systems
• Basic fabrication skills: cutting, drilling, bending, etc.
• Basic pipefittings (flanges, unions, Swagelok, threaded connections, soft tubing, push to connect)
• Experience reading Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), mechanical drawings
• Experience following operation and maintenance Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Understanding of general process operation basics including pressure, heat transfer, and fluid flow
• Experience with plant control systems and/or Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for automated process control
• Ability to take precise measurements using common tools: measuring tape, calipers, meters, etc.
• Experienced in the safe use and operation of hand tools and power tools
• Ability and willingness to adhere to company and OSHA safety protocols
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Windows, Excel, Teams, Outlook)
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team‑oriented environment
• Flexibility to adjust focus and respond to evolving priorities with minimal notice
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong mathematical aptitude

Preferred Qualifications:

• Safety certifications: OSHA 10/30, HazCom, PPE, Spill Response trainings, formal Lockout/Tagout training
• Experience with using maintenance software (CMMS)
• Chemical / Pharma / Food plant operations experience

$35 - $40 an hour

Zero Carbon Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Your Right to Work
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.