R&D Engineer (Electrochemist)
About
Sparkmate is an industrial technology company pioneering the future of steelmaking. Our mission is to redefine the global steelmaking industry with a novel electrochemical route. We operate fully electrified, autonomous steel mills to transform raw iron ore in top-quality steel products.
We are industrial trailblazers. Our novel electrochemical reactor drives decarbonized primary ironmaking. Our R&D fuels automation and industrialization. We bring together the world’s most hands-on engineers to build faster than anyone else. Experts in electrochemistry, mechatronics, and automation, we push innovation to transform steelmaking at massive scale, fast.
Sparkmate is based in Hong Kong and backed by leading deeptech investors, entrepreneurs and industry pioneers.
We are looking for makers, builders, and innovators who are ready to turn this vision into reality.
About the Role
Do you have a passion for electrochemistry and electrometallurgy? Whether you are experienced or just getting started we would love to get in touch!
For the specific role, you will be involved in experimental research, materials development, and process innovation.
What you'll do:
- Run and improve experimental electrochemical setups
- Design and conduct lab-scale tests
- Analyze materials, track performance, and troubleshoot experiments
- Collaborate closely with the team to iterate on process design and scale-up
What We're Looking For
- You’re excited about industrial decarbonization and making a physical product
- Hands-on mindset — you’ve built or tested something real (lab, uni project, personal builds)
- Basic chemistry lab skills — e.g., safety practices, accurate measurement, solution prep, titration, and chemical handling/storage
- Comfortable in a lab setting and open to learning fast
- Knowledge in electrochemistry principles (e.g., charge transfer, current-voltage relationships)
Not required, but a plus:
- Hands-on experience with experimental electrochemical cell setups
- Background in Materials / metallurgical is a bonus
- Proficiency in materials characterization techniques
- Strong data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB)
- Familiarity with thermodynamic modeling & calculations
- Able to speak/read mandarin or cantonese
Educational Background:
- Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a young, dynamic, and international team of makers
- Work in a hands-on environment where your ideas and contributions truly matter
- Flat hierarchy with trust, ownership, and continuous learning
- Daily team lunches
- Rocking Fridays (Team Building) every 5th week
- Healthcare coverage
- 25+ holidays per year
- Salary 30,000-40,000 hkd per month pending on experience
Start Date & Location
Oct 1, 2025 or sooner
Location: The job is onsite in our Hong Kong office in Kwai Chung.
Application Process
To be considered for this opportunity, please send the following documents to josie@sparkmate.com:
- A portfolio – Show us what you have build whether it is projects from the lab, work experience or school projects. We are looking for hands on experience. The format is flexible (PDF, Word, website, YouTube, etc.) but we recommend pictures with explanations of your responsibilities, scope etc.
- A cover letter detailing your motivation to join Sparkmate and why you would be a good fit.
- A CV