Climeworks
Climate Tech & Clean EnergyZurich, Switzerland

Climeworks

Pioneering direct air capture technology to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.

Company Profile

Climeworks is a global leader in direct air capture (DAC) technology, founded in 2009 as a spin-off from ETH Zurich. Their mission is to inspire and empower people to reverse climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Climeworks designs, builds, and operates DAC plants that capture CO2 directly from the air using proprietary filter technology. The captured CO2 can then be stored permanently underground (e.g., through mineralization with Carbfix in Iceland) or supplied to customers as a raw material for various applications, such as producing synthetic fuels or carbonated beverages. Their 'Orca' plant in Iceland is currently the world's largest operational DAC facility combining capture and storage.

The engineering and scientific culture at Climeworks is driven by a profound commitment to climate action, coupled with rigorous scientific and engineering principles. It's a highly interdisciplinary environment where chemical engineers, mechanical engineers, process engineers, materials scientists, and software developers collaborate to optimize and scale complex air capture systems. There's a strong emphasis on R&D, continuous improvement, and the safe and efficient operation of industrial-scale plants. The team fosters an innovative spirit, encouraging experimentation and meticulous problem-solving to overcome the technical and economic challenges of DAC.

Climeworks has achieved significant milestones, including the successful deployment and operation of multiple commercial DAC plants and securing substantial investment from various sources, including corporate partners and private investors. Their unique value proposition lies in their proven, scalable DAC technology that offers a crucial tool for achieving net-zero emissions. For job seekers, Climeworks offers the unique opportunity to work on a technology that directly addresses the climate crisis by physically removing CO2 from the atmosphere. It's a chance to contribute to a tangible solution with global impact, working at the forefront of carbon removal innovation.

Their tech stack involves advanced materials science for CO2 sorbents, complex thermodynamic and fluid dynamics modeling, process control systems, and data analytics for plant optimization. Software development focuses on automation, sensor integration, and data management (e.g., Python, MATLAB, various industrial control systems). Working at Climeworks means joining a passionate, mission-driven team that is building the infrastructure for a carbon-negative future. It's an ideal place for individuals who are technically brilliant, deeply committed to environmental sustainability, and eager to apply their skills to one of humanity's most pressing challenges.

Quick Facts

Founded

2009

Employees

300-500

Valuation

$1.2B+ total funding

Work Model

Hybrid

Salary Ranges
Engineer
$$100K-$150K (CHF equivalent)
Product Manager
$$110K-$160K (CHF equivalent)
Data Analyst
$$105K-$155K (CHF equivalent)
Backed By
Partners GroupZurich Cantonal BankUBSZürcher KantonalbankGlobal Founders Capital
StageSeries E
Latest Round$650M
Top Roles
Process EngineerMechanical EngineerChemical EngineerProject ManagerResearch ScientistControls EngineerBusiness Development Manager
Interview Process

Climeworks' interview process typically involves an initial HR screening, followed by technical interviews with team leads and peers focusing on specific engineering or scientific domains (e.g., thermodynamics, process design, materials science). Expect problem-solving discussions, case studies, and questions assessing passion for climate action and collaborative spirit. They value candidates who are innovative, detail-oriented, and committed to their mission.