Company Description
Reclinker is an early-stage deep-tech start-up, founded in 2022 to commercialise a world-first process for producing low-carbon, recycled cement using electric arc furnaces (EAFs) — the same technology used in steel recycling. Spun out of the University of Cambridge, we are on a mission to decarbonise one of the world's most carbon-intensive industries.
About the Role
We are looking for a Junior Laboratory Technician to join our growing team. You will play a hands-on role in supporting our R&D and operations teams, helping us test, analyse, and develop the materials at the heart of our technology. No prior specialist experience is required — we will invest in your development. What matters most is a practical mindset, a genuine willingness to learn, and a strong personal commitment to safety
About You
You’re practical, detailed oriented laboratory professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced innovation and laboratory setting, taking ownership of the tasks that keep a lab running at its best. You’re confident handling routine maintenance, while remaining curious and capable enough to contribute to experimental and analytical work when the opportunity arises. You work autonomously and proactively, taking accountability for your tasks and seeing them through to completion.
What You'll Do
Sample Preparation & Testing
- Mortar testing, mortar making, sieving, sampling, sample preparation, and data entry support
- Crush, mill, and split material samples following established laboratory procedures.
- Dry and prepare samples for downstream testing and analysis.
- Label, register, and store samples accurately in the laboratory management system.
- Assist with basic materials testing (cement, concrete, mortar) and record results clearly.
Laboratory Organisation & Maintenance
- Maintaining a clean, organised, and compliant lab environment, including routine housekeeping, consumable restocking.
- Manage the warehouse and materials inventory, keeping records up to date.
- Supporting equipment upkeep across the lab, including monthly maintenance, and scheduled deep cleans.
- Support equipment cleaning, basic maintenance, and general housekeeping.
- Championing 5S principles and safe working practices into your daily lab activities.
Logistics & Operational Support
- Coordinate deliveries and shipments of materials and samples.
- Support internal material handling and logistics activities.
- Assist the technical team with routine laboratory tasks as required.
Health, Safety & Environment
Safety is not a box to tick at Reclinker — it is a core part of how we operate. You will be expected to:
- Always put personal safety first and demonstrate this in everything you do.
- Follow all health and safety procedures, handling materials and equipment responsibly.
- Actively contribute to our EHS culture and support continuous improvement.
- Understand your own responsibilities under applicable health and safety legislation.
What We're Looking For
Essential
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English, Maths, and a Science subject at Grade C / 4 or above.
- Reliable, proactive, and detail-oriented — someone who takes pride in doing things properly.
- Comfortable working hands-on with materials and equipment in a practical environment.
- A team player who communicates clearly and asks for help when needed.
- Competent with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams).
- Willingness to travel occasionally to customer and trial locations.
- Full, valid UK driving licence.
Desirable (not essential)
- HND, HNC, or NVQ in a relevant subject.
- Industry safety accreditation such as CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme).
- Experience in materials processing, milling, or a laboratory environment.
- Knowledge of construction materials or cement industry practices.
- Forklift operating licence.
What You'll Learn & Development Opportunities
This role offers a development opportunity. Over time, you can expect to build expertise in:
- Cement, mortar, and concrete testing methodologies and standards.
- Laboratory instrumentation and analytical techniques (including XRF, PSD and related methods).
- Materials processing, quality control, and traceability systems.
- Laboratory safety, EHS compliance, and best practice procedures.
Our Values
We hire for values as much as skills. You will thrive at Reclinker if you are:
Intellectually Curious
Keen to learn, ask questions, and try new things.
Open & Humble
Receptive to new ideas and collaborative by nature.
Data-Driven
Comfortable working with facts, numbers, and evidence.
Autonomous
Self-motivated, comfortable with ambiguity, and proactive.
Enjoy the Journey
We work hard and enjoy each other's company along the way.
Collaborative
We support each other and ask for help freely.
Additional Information
This role may require occasional travel to customer and trial sites. The duties listed above are not exhaustive — the postholder will be expected to support wider team activities as needs arise.
Reclinker is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, and we particularly welcome candidates who are early in their careers and looking for a genuine opportunity to grow.
Pay: £23,000.00-£28,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
