Get to Know Climeworks
Climeworks is a leading provider of high-quality carbon removal solutions, with decades of expertise in Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology. Our holistic approach combines nature-based and engineered methods to support companies in achieving their net-zero goals.
Operating the world's first two DAC plants in Iceland, Climeworks showcases its commitment to high-quality carbon removal, which is backed by over 15 years of innovative research, development, and deployment. By advancing the most reliable solutions in the market, we contribute to the global transition to net-zero, unlocking economic value for businesses, governments, and society.
We foster a dynamic environment and are building a global purpose-driven team. We seek disruptive thinkers, passionate achievers, and inspiring leaders who are ready to tackle the world's greatest challenge. Will you join us?
Your Mission
Your role will encompass the following key responsibilities:
- Sorbent Module Development: You will take ownership of developing and maturing innovative sorbent modules from concept (TRL0) to early-stage product readiness (TRL5), facilitating the next generation of Climeworks CO₂ collector products.
- Testing & Characterization: You will lead both in-house and external development, testing, and characterization of sorbent modules or their sub-elements, ensuring a smooth transition to manufacturing and operations.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: You will collaborate closely with internal experts in testing, product design, and sorbent/process development to design high-performance sorbent module solutions.
- Stakeholder & Project Management: You will drive collaboration across functions and with external partners, managing technical and non-technical risks, and setting clear priorities.
- External Partnerships & Technical Leadership: You will act as a key technical expert in collaborations with external partners, ensuring DAC-specific requirements for sorbent modules are met.
- Contract & Scope Management: You will work with the legal team to ensure contracts with third parties align with the technical scope of work.
- IP & Scientific Contribution: You will evaluate relevant scientific literature and patents and contribute to the generation of new intellectual property.
Your Story: Requirements
- Educational Background: An advanced degree in engineering or materials science is required; a Ph.D. is a plus but not necessary.
- R&D and Industry Experience: Over 5 years of experience in research and development, with at least 2 years in an industrial setting is essential.
- Materials & Application Expertise: Skills in immobilizing sorbents or catalysts in 3D structures and an understanding of their properties impacting system performance.
- Experimental Methods & Characterization: Proficiency in target-driven R&D methods such as Design of Experiments (DOE) and material characterization techniques.
- Working Style & Ownership: Initiative-taking, results-driven, and hands-on throughout the full development cycle from lab to evaluations.
- Communication & Project Leadership: Ability to collaborate across teams, communicate effectively, and lead both in-house and external projects.
- Language & Travel Flexibility: Fluency in English is required, with occasional travel (up to 10%). Additional language skills are advantageous.
At Climeworks, we celebrate diversity and are committed to constructing an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply online using the form below, regardless of background, identity, or experience. If you believe you would be a great fit for this role, we would love to hear from you, even if you do not meet every single criterion.
What We Offer
- Time Off: Enjoy 25 paid vacation days every year, in addition to public holidays.
- Flexibility: Work in a way that suits you best, with a hybrid setup and up to 4 weeks of remote work annually within any EU country.
- Ownership: Fair base pay coupled with an equity package, because your contributions matter.
- Family Support: Inclusive parental leave options.
- Continuous Learning: A dedicated budget to invest in your professional growth.
- Referral Rewards: Earn bonuses for successfully referring new team members.
Formalities
This position is located in Opfikon, Zurich, and we require that you work onsite at least three days per week. The flexibility in the job title allows you to choose between full-time or part-time based on your personal circumstances.
We do not accept candidate profiles through recruitment agencies. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.