COMPANY PROFILE
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 company will first incorporate CO2 into polyurethane used as foams for mattresses and insulation, as well as coatings and adhesives. This will be followed by CO2 based surfactants used in water based formulated products such as cleaners, personal care and industrial products. These applications currently use millions of tonnes of fossil oil-based raw materials per year. Econic’s technology uses CO2, that would otherwise be emitted to the atmosphere or stored for generations. The technology offers commercial, environmental and performance benefits across the value chain.
Econic was founded in 2011 by Prof. Charlotte Williams, at Imperial College London. The company operates globally from Alderley Park, near Manchester, UK and its state-of-the-art customer demonstration facility in Runcorn, UK. We currently have a team of over 40 talented individuals which includes Scientists, Engineers and Commercial staff.
JOB DESCRIPTION (OVERVIEW)
The PU Lead will work with the scientific team to support the development of Econic’s novel processes and products. The focus of this role will the development and production of polycarbonate ether polyols by homogeneous catalysis, and the application and testing of such polyols to functionalised products such as polyurethanes.
We are looking for a colleague with experience of polymerisation catalysis, polymer characterisation and application testing. Exposure to pressurised reactor systems is advantageous. Technical project management experience is welcome. Working within our highly innovative team in Alderley Edge, you will thrive on innovation and delivery. You will need to be hands-on and able to work independently, adaptable to ideas and change, resourceful and self-motivated.
ACCOUNTABILITY PERFORMANCE MEASURES
Safety
* 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 – both self and team
General
* Designs work plans to meet Econic’s goals and priorities
* Carries out and leads excellent quality research, thought carefully planned and executed experiments
* 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
SKILLS / COMPETENCIES / EXPERIENCE
* BSc in Chemistry is essential, PhD is advantageous but not mandatory.
* At least 3 years of industrial experience is essential - across catalysis, polymers, polyols, or poly(urethanes)
* Experience of homogeneous catalysis and kinetics is advantageous
* Experience of pressure reactors is advantageous
* Experience of project leadership is highly advantageous
* Capable of interpreting routine analysis methods such as NMR, IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, GPC, and HPLC
* Excellent numeracy and literacy, and computer literacy.
* Proficiency in key MS Office programs (Excel, word) is essential
* Ability to work independently with good problem-solving skills
* Flexible approach with excellent communication skills
* Able to develop effective relationships with others
TASKS
* Designs technical programs to meet business needs
* Supervises the execution of the above, to agreed timelines
* Lead the optimisation of polymerisation reactions suitable for industrial production
* Lead the extension of polymer products through application demonstration in a variety of potential fields e.g. foams, coatings, elastomers, adhesives
* 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
Task list is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Important Eligibility Information
** Please note that we are currently unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Therefore, to be considered, candidates MUST ALREADY have the right to live and work in the UK.**
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
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.
Information Regarding Your Application
By submitting your application, you consent to Econic Technologies holding and processing your personal data for recruitment purposes, in accordance with applicable data protection laws.
Please note that, due to the high volume of applications, we may be unable to acknowledge receipt of each one individually.
Recruitment Data Handling Procedure:
* Your application and related documentation will be retained solely for recruitment purposes;
* Unsuccessful applicants’ data will be securely stored for up to 12 months after the position has been filled, after which it will be deleted;
* Documentation for successful candidates will be retained in accordance with Econic Technologies’ Internal Personal Data Policy.
If you would like your personal data to be removed from our records before the 12-month retention period ends, please contact our Data Protection Manager by emailing enquiries@econic-technologies.com with the subject line “Personal Information Removal Request,” or by writing to:
Econic Technologies Ltd
Block 19S, Alderley Park
Macclesfield, Cheshire
SK10 4TG
Please apply through the LinkedIn platform. The deadline for initial applications is end May 2026 – although this may be amended as required.
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)