Laboratory Technician
3 days ago
Harpenden
TGRC is proud to be partnering with a UK-based applied science and advanced engineering company at the forefront of industrial innovation. Leveraging a multi-disciplinary approach across the automotive, aerospace, and chemical sectors, the firm is driving sustainability by enabling manufacturers to integrate carbon-derived silica, while significantly cutting emissions. This is a hands-on, laboratory-based role central to the development of innovative processes that utilise CO₂ to produce critical materials. You will work closely with the Research and Process Development teams to prepare and operate laboratory-scale chemical reactor experiments, contributing directly to the design of commercial processes, generation of intellectual property, and delivery of customer value. Key Responsibilities: Safety and Operations • Lead day-to-day laboratory operations, ensuring efficient workflows and full adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs)., • Maintain laboratory infrastructure, including safety systems, storage, and supplies, ensuring all facilities are fully operational and accessible (including gas cylinder management)., • Coordinate with equipment suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to obtain technical information and support procurement, delivery, and servicing activities., • Ensure all safety documentation (e.g. laboratory handbook, risk assessments, COSHH, emergency procedures) is accurate, up to date, and readily accessible., • Set up, operate, and maintain chemical reactors and associated process equipment., • Collaborate with Research and Process Development teams to design and execute experimental programmes., • Collect, analyse, and communicate experimental data to support process understanding and scale-up decisions., • Support the coordination, installation, and commissioning of new equipment and process upgrades., • Operate and maintain analytical techniques to monitor and quantify experimental outcomes (e.g. mass, temperature, loss on ignition (LOI), gas chromatography, colourimetry)., • Troubleshoot equipment and process issues, implementing improvements to ensure reliable and consistent operation. Key Requirements: • Proven experience in preparing, following, and continuously improving standard operating procedures (SOPs)., • Practical mechanical and/or electrical fabrication skills relevant to laboratory or chemical process environments., • Familiarity with laboratory automation and control systems; experience in designing or developing such systems would be advantageous., • Experience in analytical or process development, materials manufacturing, or scaling up new processes is desirable., • Strong teamwork and communication skills, with a collaborative and inclusive approach. A proactive mindset and willingness to share knowledge and support colleagues in achieving team objectives are essential.