Chemical Technician

altilium.tech; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading clean technology company in the UK seeks a Chemical Technician to join their EV battery recycling team. In this role, you will operate solvent extraction systems to purify critical metals while ensuring safety and compliance. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering or relevant industrial experience. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment, handling chemicals safely and collaborating with colleagues. This is an opportunity to contribute to innovative projects within a circular energy future.

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field OR proven industrial experience.
• Experienced in handling corrosive or hazardous chemicals.
• Skilled in sampling, testing, monitoring, and interpreting chemical data.

Responsibilities

• Operate solvent extraction equipment to separate and purify metals.
• Monitor process streams and check flow rates.
• Ensure safety and compliance by following HSE procedures.

Skills

Chemical handling

Process monitoring

Data analysis (Excel proficiency)

Sampling and testing

Hydrometallurgical processes knowledge

Education

Degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Chemical Technician

ACT2 Pilot Plant, Estover

Applications will be reviewed in the new year for a February 2026 appointment.

We’re looking for ahands-on Chemical Technicianto join our EV battery recycling team. You’ll operate and monitor solvent extraction systems to separate and purify critical metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. You’ll be involved in chemical handling, process monitoring, sampling, testing, and supporting smooth plant operations.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, practical environment, enjoys working across multiple process areas, and takes pride in delivering precise, safe, and high-quality work. Whether you’re graduate or have proven experience working with chemicals in an industrial or laboratory environment, you’ll be able to make an immediate impact.

What You’ll Do

• Operate solvent extraction equipment: Mixers, settlers, pumps, tanks, and sensors to separate and purify metals.
• Monitor process streams: Check flow rates, phase ratios, pH levels, and metal concentrations.
• Handle and prepare chemicals safely: Measure, mix, and maintain reagents and solvents following COSHH and site protocols.
• Sample and test: Collect samples, perform basic wet chemistry tests or use in-line instrumentation, and record results accurately.
• Support process optimisation: Flag deviations, suggest improvements, and assist in troubleshooting or adjustments.
• Ensure safety and compliance: Wear appropriate PPE (acid suits, RPE), follow HSE procedures, and respond to alarms, spills, or operational issues.
• Collaborate with colleagues: Provide smooth shift handovers, assist across other plant areas, and support start-ups, shutdowns, and cleaning activities.

What You’ll Bring

• Degree-qualified in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related fieldORhave proven industrial experience in a chemical handling environment.
• Experienced in safely handling corrosive or hazardous chemicals.
• Knowledgeable in hydrometallurgical processes such as solvent extraction, leaching, or precipitation.
• Skilled in sampling, testing, monitoring, and interpreting chemical data.
• Detail-oriented with strong record-keeping, reporting, and data analysis skills (Excel proficiency required).
• A practical, hands-on worker who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

This role is ideal for motivated individuals eager to expand their expertise in chemical analysis while contributing to innovative projects within our organisation.

Why Join Altilium?

Altilium is a UK-based clean technology company transforming the energy sector from fossil-based to zero-carbon. We’re building a circular EV battery supply chain, recovering critical minerals from end-of-life batteries and mine tailings, and producing the lowest-carbon, most eco-friendly battery materials in the UK.

This is your chance to be part of aground-breaking industry at scale, developing innovative green technologies and contributing to a cleaner, circular energy future.

We value diversity and inclusion and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process or to the role itself, we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Apply nowand join us in shaping the future of sustainable energy.