Company Description: Rock Zero is a sustainable mineral processing start-up on a mission to revolutionize the mining industry. Our innovative hydrometallurgical process eliminates the need for high-temperature ore roasting and recycles all process reagents and water. Rock Zero’s technology enables zero-waste critical mineral production from abundant natural resources, and consumes less energy and generates fewer CO2 emissions than conventional processing methods. Rock Zero was spun out of renowned MIT professor and cleantech entrepreneur Yet-Ming Chiang’s lab in 2024. It is backed by leading VCs and federal funding agencies, including ARPA-E and a Fortune 100 automotive company.

Position Overview: We are looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Research Technician to support the development and optimization of our closed-loop mineral processing technologies. In this role, you will collaborate closely with our multidisciplinary team to conduct laboratory-scale experiments, analyze data, and contribute to process improvements. You will be responsible for hands-on experimentation and data analysis, playing a crucial role in advancing our sustainable mining technologies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct lab-scale reactions involving processing mineral ores and ore concentrates under controlled process conditions
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to identify opportunities for process enhancement
• Design and execute experiments to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Rock Zero processes
• Perform instrumentation-based analyses including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X-ray diffraction (pXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to characterize material outputs (training is available for candidates without prior experience)
• Collaborate with geologists, chemists, engineers, and safety officers to ensure seamless integration of sustainable practices
• Prepare and present technical presentations, reports, data summaries, and process documentation for both internal and external audiences
• Maintain laboratory safety and ensure compliance with established protocols

Qualifications

• >3 years experience working in a chemical R&D or analytical laboratory setting
• Familiarity with NMR, TGA, XRD, and SEM instrumentation (preferred but not required)
• Knowledge of hydrometallurgical processes or mineral processing is a plus
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a proven ability to analyze data and develop creative solutions
• Strong organizational and documentation skills, with attention to detail
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate in a cross-functional environment
• Commitment to environmental sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources

What We Offer

• Competitive Wages: Compensation aligned with experience and industry standards
• Innovative Work Environment: Work on groundbreaking technology with a high potential for impact with a dynamic, forward-thinking team
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for skill development, learning, and career advancement in a growing industry
• Collaborative Culture: Join a diverse team with a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation

Rock Zero is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Join us in transforming the mineral processing industry and creating a sustainable future for all!