At a Glance
- Tasks: Support researchers, manage lab workflow, and operate analytical equipment.
- Company: Cocoon, a fast-growing company focused on sustainable construction materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days annual leave, and clear growth pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the climate crisis while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in material characterisation and strong organisational skills.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with opportunities for hands-on research.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Laboratory Technician role at Cocoon.
About Cocoon
At Cocoon, we’re building low‑carbon construction materials for the builders of tomorrow. Steel and cement together account for nearly 15% of global CO₂ emissions — and we’re tackling that head‑on by developing the next generation of sustainable, high‑performance materials. We’re an early‑stage, fast‑growing company with a big mission and a small, hands‑on team. Every day brings new challenges and new opportunities to make a real impact on the climate crisis.
The Role
We’re looking for a Laboratory Technician to support our researchers, manage day‑to‑day lab workflow, and operate and maintain a wide range of analytical equipment. You’ll help prepare samples and run characterisation methods, including XRD, PSA, ICP‑OES, TGA, and isothermal calorimetry. You’ll be responsible for ensuring the lab remains organised, safe, and fully stocked. You will also support the installation and commissioning of new sample preparation and analytical capabilities. By keeping equipment operating smoothly and data flowing reliably, you’ll play a central role in enabling Cocoon to accelerate research and development.
Responsibilities
- Supporting researchers with their critical workstreams.
- Sample preparation for material characterisation.
- Conducting material characterisation work in the lab (XRD, PSA, ICP‑OES, TGA, isothermal calorimetry).
- Ensuring the lab is tidy, inventory is up to date, and consumables are restocked.
- Managing QC processes from industrial trials.
- Overseeing the installation, troubleshooting, and commissioning of lab equipment.
- Operating and maintaining small‑scale furnaces and Cocoon’s lab‑scale prototype granulators.
Data Management
- Developing a pipeline or dashboard for tracking analysis that is visible to the team.
- Archiving material characterisation data effectively so all users can access it.
- Data generation and cataloguing on Cocoon’s databases.
- Generating data to support the commercial activities of the business.
You’ll Succeed In This Role If You…
- Bring experience in material characterisation from steel, cement, or a related field such as battery technology.
- Have previous technician or lab manager experience.
- Are comfortable organising large data sets.
- Have an eye for detail and follow processes to the letter.
- Thrive in a fast‑moving, hands‑on laboratory environment.
What We Offer
- A central role in scaling Cocoon’s laboratory capabilities.
- The opportunity to support formal research advancement across the team.
- The chance to contribute data directly to demo‑plant development and commercial work.
- Clear growth pathways, including:
- Conducting your own research.
- Running onsite QC at pilot trials abroad.
- Progressing toward Lab Manager and owning all H&S.
A competitive salary, plus 28 days annual leave.
Apply Now If you’re excited about generating high‑quality data, supporting critical research, and helping Cocoon scale towards demo‑plant deployment, we’d love to hear from you.
Laboratory Technician employer: Cocoon
Contact Detail:
Cocoon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Cocoon and its mission. Understand their focus on sustainable materials and think about how your skills in material characterisation can contribute to their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your lab skills! Brush up on techniques like XRD and TGA, and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience. Being able to demonstrate your technical knowledge will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Cocoon team and contributing to their exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in material characterisation and lab management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your past achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about sustainable materials and how you can contribute to our mission at Cocoon. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In a lab environment, attention to detail is key. When filling out your application, make sure everything is accurate and well-organised. This will demonstrate your ability to follow processes to the letter, which we value highly.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes straight to us, making it easier for you to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cocoon
✨Know Your Equipment
Familiarise yourself with the analytical equipment mentioned in the job description, like XRD and ICP-OES. Be ready to discuss your experience with these tools and how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in the work.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since keeping the lab organised is key, prepare examples of how you've managed inventory or maintained a tidy workspace in previous positions. Highlight any systems you’ve implemented to keep things running smoothly, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about material characterisation and data management. Brush up on your knowledge of QC processes and be ready to explain how you would handle troubleshooting lab equipment. This will show that you can think critically and solve problems on the spot.
✨Express Your Passion for Sustainability
Cocoon is all about tackling climate change, so share your enthusiasm for sustainable practices in the lab. Discuss any relevant projects or experiences that align with their mission. This will help you connect with the team and show that you’re aligned with their values.