Chemical R&D - Lab Facilities Manger

Mission Zero Technologies seeks a Chemical R&D - Lab Facilities Manager in the UK to oversee lab operations, ensuring safety and efficiency while supporting R&D efforts. The role involves managing laboratory staff, maintaining equipment, and promoting sustainable practices. Candidates should have a scientific degree and experience in lab management. Although the position is primarily onsite, there is a flexible work policy allowing 3-4 days of remote work per week.
About Mission Zero Technologies

We’re a London-based climate-tech start-up, working to reframe how the world views carbon in order to enable a thriving planet. Since 2020, we have 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 scale to commercial plants in under three years, to empower carbon removal and sustainable utilisation.

About The Role

London-based with our flexible trust-based work policy (3-4 days/week onsite).

Looking to use your powers for good? Join Mission Zero Technologies to help fight the climate crisis on the molecular frontline.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Mission Zero Technologies during our transition from an R&D-focused startup into a global, revenue-generating company. As Chemical R&D - Lab Facilities Manger, you will play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of our lab facilities, supporting cutting-edge R&D efforts, and enabling the team to scale our transformative direct air capture technology.

This role combines leadership, operational management, and technical expertise. You’ll be responsible for overseeing all aspects of laboratory management while also having the capability to independently run and maintain lab operations when required.

What You'll Be Doing

Lab Operations and Technical Expertise
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory activities, ensuring smooth operations and adherence to safety standards.
• Independently operate, troubleshoot, and maintain lab equipment during staff absences or high-demand periods.
• Conduct experiments, analyze samples, and interpret data to support R&D efforts, acting as the primary technical resource when required.
• Manage inventory of consumables, chemicals, and lab supplies to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Implement and promote sustainable lab practices, including waste reduction and energy efficiency initiatives.

Health, Safety, and Compliance
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, including COSHH, risk assessments, and company-specific safety protocols.
• Conduct safety audits, inspections, and emergency preparedness training.

Team Leadership and Development
• Manage, mentor, and train lab technicians and junior staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Delegate tasks effectively while remaining prepared to take on hands-on lab responsibilities when needed.
• Encourage innovation and support team members in developing new methods and solutions.

Support R&D Activities
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to plan and execute experiments.
• Contribute to experimental design and troubleshooting, providing practical solutions to maintain project momentum.
• Assist in data analysis, technical reporting, and presentations to stakeholders.

Documentation and Reporting
• Maintain up-to-date records of equipment calibration, consumable inventory, and safety compliance.
• Provide regular updates to senior management on lab operations, resource requirements, and key findings.

What You'll Need To Be Successful In This Role
• A degree (BSc/BEng or higher) in a scientific or engineering discipline.
• Proven experience managing laboratory operations, including inventory, equipment maintenance, and health and safety compliance.
• Strong technical skills and hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and processes, including the ability to independently perform experiments and troubleshoot issues.
• Leadership skills with experience managing, mentoring, or training teams.
• An analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and contribute meaningfully to research findings.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to balance managerial duties with technical responsibilities.
• Adaptability and resilience to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment.

Ideally you'll also have
• Hands-on experience with specialized laboratory equipment such as HPLC, IC, GC, and gas/ion chromatography systems.
• Knowledge of sustainable laboratory practices (e.g., waste reduction or energy efficiency).
• Creative problem-solving skills to develop new processes or refine existing ones for greater efficiency.
• A strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

What We Can Offer You
• 30 days of Annual Leave
• 3 months Paternity/Maternity Leave
• £500 annual Personal Development Grant
• Unlimited mental health support
• BUPA Cash Plan & gym discounts
• 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)
• Interview and Business Exercise