At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative low-carbon cement products using electric arc furnaces.
- Company: Join Reclinker, a fast-growing climate-tech startup revolutionising cement recycling.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and a pension contribution.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable technology while working on cutting-edge projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field; EAF knowledge preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Role type: Full-time, permanent
Location: Cambridge, with travel to Cardiff/ other EAF sites as required
About Reclinker
Reclinker is a fast‑growing climate‑tech startup transforming cement recycling. Our technology is centred on making cementitious products using steelmaking electric arc furnaces (EAF), using our proprietary co‑production process. We are preparing to launch our first product to market and are entering a critical phase of rapid scale‑up in both production capacity and commercial traction.
We are looking for people who are committed to - and consistently demonstrate - our company values of:
Product Development Manager – Role Overview
We are hiring a Product Development Manager to lead the development of Reclinker’s EAF‑derived cementitious products as we bring our first product to market and scale production. This is a hands‑on, technical role focused on translating research into commercially viable products and processes. You will support the ongoing optimisation and deployment of Reclinker’s existing ‘LEAF’ product, while leading the development of next‑generation low‑carbon clinker and Portland clinker products made using electric arc furnaces.
We’re looking for someone who has a strong, practical knowledge of steelmaking using electric arc furnaces, and strength in delivering innovation. You will lead the technical aspects of product and process development from concept through to industrial deployment. This will involve the design and development of fluxes, electric arc furnace operating protocols for cement making, and slag handling and processing practices. To do so, you will shape experimental programmes, scale production processes, and support pilot projects with our EAF operators, and other external partners. Strong modelling skills to determine trade‑offs will enable you to deliver solutions that meet performance, cost, and carbon requirements and targets across steel and cement outputs, fostering collaboration to deliver success. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys applying technical expertise in real‑world settings and wants to help scale impactful, low‑carbon cement technologies. You will report to our Chief Product Officer (Pippa Horton), and work closely with research, engineering, and operations teams to deliver successful product outcomes.
Key responsibilities
- Lead technical development of EAF‑derived cementitious products from concept to commercialisation
- Enhance existing and define new EAF slag product solutions that meet targets for cost, carbon, quality and scalability (flux innovations, EAF operating protocols, slag handling and processing practices)
- Model EAF and slag technicalities to inform these solutions (chemistry, mass balance, thermodynamics, kinetics, etc.), with support from the research team
- Work with operations teams to define production processes from lab to pilot and industrial environments, and support on‑site deployment
- Support techno‑economic and LCA assessments and business case development
Research integration & innovation
- Scope and guide experimental programmes for Portland clinker production
- Collaborate with research teams to apply scientific insights to product development outcomes
- Contribute to the innovation pipeline and support IP development and protection
- Identify and evaluate opportunities to valorise further EAF by‑products (e.g. slags, dusts, metallics) as part of our Reclinker process
- Lead material characterisation, separation trials and feasibility assessments
- Collaborate with partners to develop and scale new material utilisation pathways
- Identify wider EAF product innovation opportunities to increase the value proposition for current and future EAF partners, and support expansion to new sites
- Evaluate and recommend new technical opportunities to enhance the EAF value proposition
- Support feasibility assessment and selection of future EAF sites for technology deployment
- Contribute to pilot delivery, technical due diligence, and implementation across EAFs
Project management & cross‑functional collaboration
- Maintain clear technical documentation and ensure knowledge sharing across research, commercial, and operations teams to ensure aligned product development
- Manage development pipelines, tracking progress against milestones and KPIs
- Work effectively with external stakeholders, including EAF operators and research partners
- Provide technical support for customer engagement, pilots, and market expansion
Requirements
We know that no candidate will meet every requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you can make a strong impact at Reclinker, we encourage you to apply.
Qualifications
- Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field
- Advanced degree (MSc/PhD) is advantageous but not required
Knowledge and experience
- Strong understanding of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking processes, including raw materials, furnace operation, and by‑product generation
- In‑depth knowledge of EAF slag properties, behaviour and variability, and their implications for downstream use
- Experience working with EAF materials (e.g. slag, dust, metallics) and their processing, treatment, or utilisation
- Experience in product or process development, ideally taking technologies from lab through to pilot or industrial scale
- Familiarity with experimental design, material characterisation analysis techniques (XRF, XRD, TGA, SEM), and data‑driven development
- Experience in cement, concrete, or construction materials, particularly in relation to clinker or supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), is highly desirable
- Exposure to techno‑economic analysis, Lifecycle Assessments, or industrial deployment is beneficial
Skills and abilities
- Strong technical problem‑solving skills, with the ability to apply EAF and materials knowledge to product development challenges
- Data‑driven mindset, with confidence interpreting and using data to inform decisions
- Ability to operate in a hands‑on, fast‑paced environment, and take proactive ownership of technical workstreams
- Effective communicator and collaborator, able to work across research, engineering, and commercial teams. Comfortable working with external partners, particularly steel producers
- Organised and structured, with the ability to manage across multiple priorities and projects
Benefits
- 33 days annual leave inclusive of UK bank holidays
- Private medical insurance (optional)
- Pension contribution (auto‑enrolment, with scope to enhance)
Product Development Manager -Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) in Cambridge employer: Reclinker (previously Cambridge Electric Cement)
Reclinker is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Cambridge, where innovation meets sustainability. As a fast-growing climate-tech startup, we provide our employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and development, alongside a collaborative culture that values creativity and technical expertise. With competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, private medical insurance, and a commitment to employee well-being, Reclinker is dedicated to fostering a rewarding career for those passionate about transforming the cement industry through low-carbon technologies.
Contact Detail:
Reclinker (previously Cambridge Electric Cement) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Development Manager -Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with EAF processes. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in product development.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to companies you admire, like Reclinker, and express your interest. Sometimes, creating your own opportunity is the best way to land a role.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in EAF technology and cement production. This not only boosts your knowledge but also shows potential employers that you're committed to growth and innovation.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Development Manager -Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Development Manager role. Highlight your experience with electric arc furnaces and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about low-carbon technologies and how you can contribute to our mission at Reclinker. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, don’t forget to showcase your technical expertise, especially in EAF processes and product development. We’re keen to see how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world settings, so share specific examples!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reclinker (previously Cambridge Electric Cement)
✨Know Your EAF Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Electric Arc Furnace processes and EAF slag properties. Be ready to discuss how these elements impact product development and how you can leverage them in your role. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in product or process development, especially those related to EAF materials. Highlight how you approached these problems, the solutions you implemented, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your technical problem-solving abilities and your hands-on experience.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, think of instances where you've successfully collaborated across departments. Be ready to discuss how you communicate effectively with research, engineering, and commercial teams, and how you manage relationships with external partners.
✨Be Data-Driven
Familiarise yourself with data analysis techniques relevant to EAF processes. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions in previous roles. This will show that you have a data-driven mindset, which is crucial for optimising product development and achieving performance targets.
