Process Research and Development Lead in Macclesfield

Econic Technologies is a UK-based carbon-to-value company and pioneer in the utilisation of carbon dioxide (CO2) as a valuable raw material for the manufacture of polymers used in a wide range of everyday, necessary products. Econic’s patented catalyst and process technology replaces up to 50% of existing oil-based feedstock with captured CO2 in the production of polymers with applicability in a broad range of markets.

The PR&D Lead will work with the scientific team to support the development of Econic’s novel processes and products. We are looking for a colleague with experience of organic synthetic process research and development, and technical transfer to commercial production. Technical project management experience is highly advantageous, and line management experience is welcome.

ACCOUNTABILITY PERFORMANCE MEASURES

• Support Econic’s excellent safety culture, including timely reporting of all safety incidents and learning events.
• Conduct all experiments and procedures in line with safety policies and with safety of self and others as primary concern.
• Designs work plans to meet Econic’s goals and priorities.
• Carries out and leads excellent quality PR&D, through carefully planned and executed experiments.
• Drives lab culture and ways of working, by example.
• Coaches and mentors less experienced team members.
• Delivers clear and accurate reports and maintains well documented data.
• Develops effective working relationships both within Econic, and with our network of suppliers and customers.
• Possible line management responsibility or potential to grow into line management.

TASKS

• Designs technical programs to meet business needs.
• Supervises the execution of the above, to agreed timelines.
• Desirable to conduct some laboratory experiments in parallel.
• Lead the optimisation of synthetic schemes for scaled synthesis.
• Work effectively with related Econic functions such as Analytical and Process Engineering.
• Assist the technical transfer of process to partner manufacturing sites.
• Record all work and outcomes in a clear, organised and comprehensive manner.
• Effectively communicate outcomes with relevant stakeholders.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Excellent project management, organisational skills, and ability to multitask.
• Excellent communication skills, able to develop effective working relationships and communicate effectively across all levels and functions of the business.
• Ability to work independently with good problem-solving skills.
• Can do attitude with willingness to be involved at all levels of activity and respond flexibly to the needs of a growing business.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• At least 5 years of industrial experience is essential - across Research, Process Chemistry, or Manufacturing.
• Proficiency in key MS Office programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and other tools to manage complex work programmes.
• Technical Project Leadership experience as a priority.
• Process Research & Development experience required.
• Experience of Line and People Management.
• Capable of interpreting routine analysis methods such as NMR, IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, GPC, and HPLC.

QUALIFICATIONS

• BSc in Chemistry is essential, PhD is advantageous but not mandatory.

HEALTH & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidates must be able to meet the necessary health and safety requirements to carry out the duties safely and effectively. Reasonable adjustments will be considered in line with our commitment to inclusivity and workplace safety.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

At Econic Technologies, we value diversity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all individuals who meet the requirements of the role, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• Salary: Competitive dependant on experience
• Benefits: 28 Days Annual Leave & Public Bank Holidays, Casual Dress Code, Company Pension Scheme (Salary Sacrifice Optional), Free On-Site Parking, Private Medical Insurance (after successful completion of probation period), Life Insurance, Enhanced Company Sick Pay, Employee Share Ownership Programme (ESOP)
• Work Hours / Shift pattern: 37.5 Hours Per Week - Monday to Friday (days)