At NPK Recovery we see waste differently. We’re on a mission to recover nutrients from urine; Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (K) - nutrients critical for growing the food we consume. We are developing a fertiliser from the nutrients recovered from urine, as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilisers. Over the next 12 months, we will refine our prototype system for processing urine at scale, and are seeking expertise in instrumentation, control and automation to create our system. Our partners include the Royal Agricultural University, UK AgriTech Centre, Oxford University spin-out Pilio, and Bristol-based PEEQUAL. The role: You'll join our multidisciplinary team to collaborate on solutions to bring in automation and control to our urine processing system, starting with laboratory-scale equipment to increase experimental throughput, as well as bringing your expertise and ideas to shape the overall system as we scale. We are seeking someone who is curious, collaborative, and interested in sustainability. Expertise in the wastewater industry or similar would be advantageous, but not essential. Your Responsibilities Provide critical input into the direction of our R&D, designing and automating bench-scale processes. You will identify the instrumentation and control requirements for our first prototype. Provide insight and assist in the design of a pilot system, including technical documentation like mechanical drawings and identifying and purchasing materials. Constructively critique existing systems and design solutions in collaboration with the wider team. Advocate for and implement best practice in Health & Safety and assist in development of risk assessments. Longer term, you'll optimise our process, reduce manufacturing time and improve cost efficiency and consider maintenance and serviceability of the process. Where necessary, you will take an active role in presenting to our funders, investors and key stakeholders. Your track record Practical electrical and software engineering experience, ideally within novel R&D. Experience in developing products designed for continuous manufacturing at scale and optimisation of the system’s lifetime performance. Exposure to designing a pilot plant; producing mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams and design specifications for manufacturers. 3 years of experience is desirable in an industrial environment. Exceptions will be made for outstanding candidates. Strong working knowledge of microcontrollers and the ability to automate equipment to combat challenges in our core innovation. Evidence of working on projects from “cradle to grave”, including scope development, engineering requirements, detailed design specifications and the iteration of prototypes. Able to help drive a zero incident/accident culture, and encourage a safety-first environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - able to clearly communicate your vision, make decisions and prepare a plan for adoption. Self-starter who is flexible to the evolving needs of a start-up, which may include tasks outside of the job description on occasion. HNC / HND / Degree qualification in a relevant engineering discipline, or an equivalent level of engineering experience in a similar role, is essential. You need a permanent right to work in the UK. This role is funded by Innovate UK and the Co-op Foundation’s Carbon Innovation Fund. Salary and benefits Starting salary of £30,000-£50,000 dependent on candidate experience. Fixed term contract until October 2025, with extension dependent on funding. Flexible working hours, including around caring responsibilities or school hours. Part-time and full-time hours considered. Budget for CPD and, for exceptional candidates, chartership. 28 days holiday plus bank holidays. Cycle-to-work scheme. Company pension with option for salary sacrifice. Equity negotiable under EMI options scheme. We are based at FutureSpace Bristol, with a minimum of 3 days per week on site. Monthly beer & pizza evenings take place onsite, plus free parking, bike storage and showers are available. How to apply: Please email your CV and a short cover letter outlining how you meet the above, to hellonpkrecovery.com. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact philippanpkrecovery.com