Technical Operations Associate

Technical Operations Associate Mantisonix | Guildford, Surrey | Hybrid working available | £27,000–£32,000 | Full-time (part-time considered) | Start date July/August 2026 If you're passionate about tackling one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, Mantisonix offers a rare opportunity to work at the forefront of PFAS destruction technology. Our breakthrough ultrasonic solution eliminates PFAS and persistent organic pollutants completely, on-site, at ambient conditions - no chemicals, no toxic emissions, no transport liability. It runs on electricity alone and can be powered by renewables. We're a two-person founding team growing to four, validated at TRL 6, and backed by the Royal Academy of Engineering plus £690k in non-dilutive grants from Innovate UK, the UK–India Partnership, and the Surrey Economic Growth Fund. We're investor-ready, field-ready, and moving fast. The role This is a hands-on, high-impact position suitable for STEM graduates or early-career professionals, at the technical core of what we do. You'll blend mechanical aptitude, scientific curiosity and independence to support the build and operation of pilot plants, assist with trials in the field, analyse results, and help us develop the technology as we scale. No two weeks will look the same. One day you might be assembling equipment in the workshop; the next you're on a client site supporting a trial, or crunching data for a stakeholder report. We're a small team, which means your contribution is visible, your ideas get heard, and your work directly shapes the direction of the company. This role will suit you if you thrive in environments where the rulebook is still being written - where you need to be proactive, adaptable, and comfortable making decisions with incomplete information. It is not the right role if you're looking for a structured corporate environment with clearly defined processes and a narrow remit. What you'll be doing Building & Operating Assisting with the assembly, testing, and day-to-day operation of our pilot plants. Supporting in-house and on-site trial execution, making sure systems run safely and efficiently. Contributing to iterative design improvements as we develop the technology. Analysing & Reporting Turning trial data into clear, well-structured reports for internal development and external stakeholders. Conducting techno-economic calculations to validate the commercial viability of process improvements. Keeping an eye on competitors and the wider market. Managing & Coordinating Overseeing the workshop - inventory management, safety protocols, waste disposal compliance. Liaising with chemical suppliers, equipment vendors, and subcontractors. Supporting logistics coordination for on-site trials. Representing Mantisonix Preparing technical outreach materials and attending industry events. You'll be a visible face for the company in technical settings. What we're looking for Essential: Either a degree/HNC in a STEM discipline, or relevant hands-on experience, or a combination of both - Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or similar A valid UK driving licence A technically-minded approach - a strong instinct for understanding how things work and why, with a good grasp of engineering or scientific principles Comfortable with data analysis (Excel, Python, or similar) Strong written communication skills for technical documentation and reporting Bonus points for: Any experience with basic chemistry experiments or laboratory work A genuine passion for hands-on technical work - building things, testing things, fixing things Familiarity with techno-economic modelling Any background in water treatment, environmental remediation, or cleantech We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Diversity of thought and perspective makes our science better, and we're committed to building a team that reflects the world we're trying to protect. If you don't meet every point on this list but feel strongly that you're the right person for this role, please apply and tell us why. The kind of person who will thrive here You're curious and technically rigorous - you care about doing things properly. You're also flexible enough to roll with the unexpected and self-motivated enough not to need someone telling you what to do next. You ask good questions, take feedback well, and bring energy to problems rather than waiting for them to be solved. You probably find slow-moving environments frustrating. You care about the environment and want your work to mean something. We're a coachable team and we expect the same from everyone who joins us. There's a lot to learn here - about the science, the industry, the technology - and we'll invest in your development. But you need to want that. What we offer Direct mentorship from the CTO and close working relationship with both founders A role where you'll see your designs built and deployed in the real world Flexible hybrid working Salary: £27,000–£32,000 depending on experience Continuous learning supported - including dedicated time for upskilling The fast learning curve and variety of a high-growth deep-tech startup Part-time applications also considered Mantisonix is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, marital status, sex, or sexual orientation. Click 'apply' or email your CV to our retained recruitment partner, [email protected]