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Direct Air Capture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

They are seeking a Software Engineer to own the user experience of their Direct Air Capture platform, focusing on high-quality web applications for internal operations and external-facing dashboards.

Rapidly develop electronics for Direct Air Carbon Capture reactors and supporting infrastructure including high power electronics, control systems and actuators, programmable logic controllers ...

Rapidly develop electronics for Direct Air Carbon Capture reactors and supporting infrastructure including high power electronics, control systems and actuators, programmable logic controllers ...

Rapidly develop electronics for Direct Air Carbon Capture reactors and supporting infrastructure including high power electronics, control systems and actuators, programmable logic controllers ...

You will use your deep expertise in microwave technology to advance a cutting-edge approach to Direct Air Capture (DAC). This role is for someone who thrives on technical challenges, loves ...

We are looking for a Software Engineer to be the hands-on owner of our Direct Air Capture (DAC) platform's user experience. You will use React/TypeScript and strong product intuition to design and ...

We are looking for a Software Engineer to be the hands-on owner of our Direct Air Capture (DAC) platform's user experience. You will use React/TypeScript and strong product intuition to design and ...

We are looking for a Software Engineer to be the hands-on owner of our Direct Air Capture (DAC) platform's user experience. You will use React/TypeScript and strong product intuition to design and ...

We are looking for a Software Engineer to be the hands-on owner of our Direct Air Capture (DAC) platform's user experience. You will use React/TypeScript and strong product intuition to design and ...

Senior Microwave Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

You will use your deep expertise in microwave technology to advance a cutting-edge approach to Direct Air Capture (DAC). This role is for someone who thrives on technical challenges, loves ...

Senior Data Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$130K - $176K/yr

AirCapture develops an on site and modular direct air capture technology. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Berkeley, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently ...

Senior Data Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$130K - $176K/yr

AirCapture develops an on site and modular direct air capture technology. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Berkeley, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently ...

Senior Data Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

You will shape the data foundation that powers the technology of our lifetime, owning the pipelines, models, and analyses that turn operational data from our Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems into the ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

This is a very exciting time to join Aircapture as we expand our market share and revolutionize Direct Air Capture ("DAC") technology. If you want to have a major impact at a groundbreaking climate ...

You will shape the data foundation that powers the technology of our lifetime, owning the pipelines, models, and analyses that turn operational data from our Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems into the ...

Director of Test Engineering

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$190K - $205K/yr

Owning system-level performance testing, you will define how we measure and understand our Direct Air Capture (DAC) systems, building a world-class quality and reliability capability. Performance ...

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Direct Air Capture information

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How much do direct air capture jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct air capture in the United States is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Direct Air Capture vs Carbon Capture Technician?

AspectDirect Air CaptureCarbon Capture Technician
CredentialsEngineering degrees, environmental science certificationsTechnical certifications, HVAC or industrial maintenance experience
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, specialized industrial sitesIndustrial plants, power stations, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageClimate change mitigation, environmental startupsFossil fuel industries, power plants, industrial sectors

Both roles involve working with environmental technologies, but Direct Air Capture focuses on developing and operating systems that remove CO2 directly from the atmosphere, often in research or specialized facilities. Carbon Capture Technicians typically maintain and operate equipment at industrial sites to capture emissions from existing processes. While they share some technical skills, their work environments and primary objectives differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Direct Air Capture operations?

Professionals in Direct Air Capture (DAC) often encounter challenges related to maintaining and optimizing complex machinery in varying environmental conditions. The role typically requires balancing hands-on technical work with continuous process monitoring and troubleshooting to ensure efficient CO₂ capture. Additionally, as the technology is rapidly evolving, team members must stay updated on new advancements and adapt to changes in operational protocols. Close collaboration with engineers, researchers, and maintenance teams is essential to address technical issues and drive process improvements.

What is Direct Air Capture?

Direct Air Capture (DAC) is a technology designed to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the atmosphere. Specialized machines use chemical processes to capture CO2, which can then be stored underground or reused in various applications such as making fuels or building materials. DAC is considered an important tool in the fight against climate change, especially for offsetting emissions that are hard to eliminate by other means. However, it is still a developing technology and can be energy-intensive and costly compared to other carbon removal methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Air Capture Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Direct Air Capture Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical, mechanical, or environmental engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in process design. Familiarity with gas separation technologies, carbon capture systems, and data analysis software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB is typically required. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on multidisciplinary projects and troubleshooting technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for developing efficient capture systems and advancing climate solutions in this rapidly evolving field.
What cities are hiring for Direct Air Capture jobs? Cities with the most Direct Air Capture job openings:
What states have the most Direct Air Capture jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Air Capture jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Air Capture jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Air Capture jobs are:
Infographic showing various Direct Air Capture job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Carbon Management Specialist

Carbon Management Specialist

California Energy Commission

Sacramento, CA • On-site, Remote

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

403rd of 648 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Do you have experience with carbon removal or direct air capture technologies? California Energy Commission (CEC) is hiring a Carbon Management Specialist to analyze and advance technologies for direct air capture of atmospheric carbon that uses mechanical processes, chemical processes, or both, in support of California’s carbon neutrality goals.


The person hired will be an Energy Analyst or Associate Energy Specialist state classification in the Manufacturing & Carbon Management Unit of the Energy Research and Development Division (ERDD).


ERDD deploys over $200 million annually to advance new scientific approaches and technology innovations to meet the state’s clean energy and climate change policies.


The MCM Unit is part of the broader Industry & Carbon Management Branch, which advances technologies to decarbonize the industrial sectors, improves demand flexibility to maintain electric grid stability and control costs, and advances carbon removal and utilization technologies and strategies.


The MCM Unit focuses on technology for decarbonization of industrial processes via process modifications, electrification, or other means and carbon management, including direct air capture of atmospheric carbon, point source capture, and carbon utilization.



Desirable Qualifications:

  • Background in carbon capture, removal, utilization, and storage and broader industrial decarbonization strategies is preferred.
  • Research and analytical skills and ability to make well-supported recommendations for planning and decision-making.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize work activities, and deliver high-quality, timely work products.
  • Ability to draft, review, and edit technical information for various audiences, including Commission leadership and the public.
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work well as part of a team and perform independent tasks that contribute toward shared goals.
  • Ability to effectively write and edit technical program information.
  • Ability to reason logically and creatively.
  • Ability to use a variety of analytical techniques.
  • Ability to learn and apply project management principles.



** Telework option is available, but hired candidate must reside in California before starting.


Required Application Package Documents

  • Resume
  • School Transcripts
  • State application template (STD 678 document)
  • Cover letter – no more than one page


Link to CalCareers with official application instructions:

https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobPosting.aspx?JobControlId=519311


Filing Deadline: June 5th, 2026


For any questions about these positions or the application process please email Bjorn.Shepard@energy.ca.gov to connect with the CEC recruitment team.