Research Chemist

pH7 Technologies1 day ago

Greater Vancouver, British Columbia

Mid Level

part_time

100% company-funded extended health and dental coverage

Free and low-cost mental health and wellness resources

Two weeks paid vacation first year, three weeks second year

Positioned at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and critical resource recovery, pH7 Technologies is tackling urgent global challenges in mining and metal recycling by providing innovative closed-loop metal extraction processes. We are a dynamic, fast-paced company driven by a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our team is committed to attracting and retaining top, diverse talent who share our vision of building a better, cleaner planet.

Job Summary

The Research Chemist supports the development and optimization of processes for extracting critical metals from complex end-of-life materials. The role involves conducting experiments, performing analytical measurements, and producing high-quality, reliable data to advance pH7's core technologies. Working with Senior Scientists and Engineers, the Research Chemist helps refine process chemistry, interpret results, troubleshoot issues, and support scale-up to pilot operations.

This position requires strong wet-chemistry skills, careful documentation, and the ability to identify trends or anomalies in experimental outcomes. The Research Chemist works effectively in a fast-paced environment, collaborates well with the technical team, and consistently follows chemical handling and lab safety protocols. The role also calls for proactive problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining an organized, safe, and productive laboratory.

What You'll Do

• Execute laboratory experiments to support the development and optimization of processes for critical metal extraction.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and samples; operate laboratory equipment and instrumentation according to SOPs.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data with strong attention to accuracy and data integrity.
• Document procedures, observations, and results in laboratory notebooks and internal databases.
• Assist Senior Scientists and Engineers in troubleshooting experiments, identifying key variables, and refining experimental plans.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and presentations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, adhering to pH7's safety and chemical handling protocols.
• Collaborate with colleagues from R&D, Analytical Lab, and Pilot Plant teams to support technology development and scaling activities.

What You'll Need

• BSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• 2+ years of hands-on, relevant laboratory experience.
• Practical experience with wet chemistry techniques, solution preparation, and solid–liquid handling.
• Strong documentation habits and familiarity with maintaining laboratory notebooks or digital records.
• Proficient with various software including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to follow experimental plans, SOPs, and safety procedures with accuracy and consistency.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-based R&D environment.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Demonstrated commitment to safe laboratory practices and chemical handling.

How You'll Stand Out

• Experience contributing to method development, experimental design, or troubleshooting laboratory procedures.
• Exposure to scale-up environments, pilot plant operations, or cross-functional technical teams.
• Experience with data analysis software beyond Excel (e.g., Python, statistical tools) is an asset.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems, documentation control practices, or ISO frameworks is a plus.

Working Hours & Environment

This is a full-time, on-site role with pH7 Technologies at our R&D Lab, located in Burnaby, BC.

Benefits

• Comprehensive, 100% company-funded extended health and dental coverage
• Access to free and low-cost mental health and wellness resources
• (2) Two weeks of paid vacation in your first year, adjusting to (3) weeks of paid vacation in your second year
• Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities
• Monthly all-staff team huddles with company updates, team-building activities, and social connection
• Regular opportunities to celebrate team achievements and milestones together

All applicants will be required to participate in a criminal history and credit history background check as part of the onboarding process. All employment offers at pH7 Technologies are contingent upon successfully completing and passing these checks.

pH7 Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful workplace that values the unique backgrounds, talents, and perspectives of all individuals. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences and welcome those who bring diverse ideas and contributions to our team.

Services for Renewable Energy

11-50

pH7's award-winning closed-loop technology is transforming critical metals extraction, supporting the transition to clean and renewable energy (e.g., hydrogen). This innovative process increases the supply of critical metals—such as copper, platinum, palladium, rhodium, and radium—through an environmentally and economically sustainable approach rooted in the circular economy.

The process uses organic, inorganic, and electrochemical methods to recovers metals from primary and secondary resources, including end-of-life materials that traditional methods struggle to process. It reduces wastewater, prevents hazardous chemicals from entering the environment, and lowers CO2 emissions to near zero. This approach makes it possible to sustainably extract the critical metals needed for green energy solutions.

Recent Recognition & Awards: Recognized "One to Watch" at the 2024 Cleantech Export Summit by Export Development Canada (EDC)

Winner of the Environmental Sustainability Award, In 2024 Burnaby Board of Trade Business Excellence Awards

Named in the prestigious 2024 Global Cleantech 100

Selected for the SET100 list of emerging climate tech startups

Recipient of Clean50/Clean16 awards for excellence in cleantech R&D

Strategic Partnerships: We're proud to collaborate with industry leaders including BASF, Mitsubishi International, and Johnson Matthey to advance sustainable metal processing globally.

Our Technology Advantage: Proprietary process that outperforms traditional pyro and hydro metallurgy approaches

Zero toxic emissions, wastewater, or effluent

Significantly reduced energy consumption

Higher quality metal recovery

Economically viable processing of previously uneconomical materials

Our breakthrough technology is enabling the transition to renewable energy while helping partners achieve their sustainability goals in four key areas:

PGM processing Copper ore extraction E-waste recycling Green hydrogen production