General Motors

Researcher - Battery Material Characterization and Method Development

General Motors$90K — $120K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a science or engineering field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR PhD with 1-2+ years experience
  • 5+ years in characterization of organic and/or inorganic materials
  • Hands-on experience with materials characterization tools like X-ray CT, SEM, XRD, and XRF
  • Understanding of 2D and 3D image processing
  • Experience generating innovative ideas and executing R&D projects
  • Up-to-date knowledge of industry developments and technical skills
  • Ability to manage relationships with divisional staff
  • Experience leading technical discussions and communicating progress across the organization.

Responsibilities

  • Perform X-ray CT analysis of battery electrodes to study porosity and tortuosity distributions
  • Conduct X-ray CT inspections of battery cells for layer alignment and failure analysis
  • Analyze surface and interface chemistry of battery materials
  • Conduct root cause and failure analysis of vehicle components
  • Develop understanding of material properties through evaluation
  • Provide analysis support to different research groups
  • Support maintenance and calibration of analytical instruments
  • Develop new testing and characterization methods for batteries
  • Ensure adherence to GM safety rules.
  • Represent GM to external technical and business communities.

Benefits

  • Relocation benefits may be available
  • Hybrid work schedule with in-office reporting 3+ times a week.
  • Opportunity to lead in battery research and innovation
  • Chance to collaborate with top industry experts
  • Engagement in groundbreaking projects focused on EV technology.
Full Job Description

Job Description

The Role

Join GM’s Battery Research and Development team to advance next-generation EV battery chemistry, cell design, system integration, and manufacturing in support of GM’s battery technology roadmap. In this role, you will lead advanced battery materials and interface analysis using techniques such as X-ray CT, XRF, SEM, XPS, and XRD, develop new characterization methods, and support model development and virtualization efforts. You will also drive research and failure-analysis projects, collaborate with internal and external partners, and communicate findings through reports, presentations, and invention disclosures.

What You’ll Do

  • Perform submicron X-ray computed tomography (CT) analysis of battery electrodes to study porosity and tortuosity distributions supporting battery R&D projects

  • Perform X-ray CT of battery cells for inspection of layer alignment, anode over-hang, battery swelling, and failure analysis of batteries and other vehicle components

  • Surface and interface chemistry analyses of battery materials and components

  • Root cause and failure analysis of vehicle components and materials

  • Develop understanding of material property and performance correlation through detailed material evaluation

  • Provide characterization and analysis support to different research groups

  • Support maintenance and calibration of analytical instruments

  • Development of new methods of testing and characterizing batteries and their components at different stages of R&D.

  • Observe and ensure GM and laboratory specific safety rules are followed

  • Represent GM as a leader to the external technical and business communities

What You’ll Need (Required Qualifications)

  • Master’s degree in a science or engineering field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR PhD in a science or engineering field with 1-2+ years of relevant experience

  • 5+ years of experience in characterization of organic and/or inorganic materials

  • Understanding and hands-on experience in materials characterization tools such as X-ray CT, SEM, XRD, XRF, sample preparation, etc.

  • Understanding of 2D and 3D image processing.

  • Experience generating innovative ideas, proposing new R&D projects, evaluating technologies, planning, and executing projects to meet customer needs.

  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry and technical developments to grow core technical skills and proficiencies

  • Fast learner willing to pivot based on corporate objectives

  • Experience managing relationships and growing partnership with divisional staffs to meet project objectives

  • Experience leading technical discussions and reviews as an expert in your field, and communicating results and progress across the organization.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Experience working with lithium-ion battery materials and components.

  • Experience handling and characterization of air sensitive materials.

  • Deep understanding and hand-on experience in materials characterization tools such as x-ray CT, SIMS, XPS, SEM, FIB, EPMA, XRF, ICP, TGA, GCMS, GD-OES, Raman, FTIR, etc.

  • Experience with 2D and 3D image processing and analysis using tools like – ImageJ, Avizo, MATLAB, etc.

  • Experience with battery performance testing and data analysis.

  • Experience with modeling of voltage cycling data to extract useful information.

  • Experience assisting lab management in identifying mega-trends in technology and business strategies in the automotive sector

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

About General Motors

General Motors Company engages in the manufacture and sale of cars and trucks in the United States, China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. It offers sedans, crossovers, sport utility vehicles, pick-up trucks, coupes, sports/convertibles and hybrid vehicles, hatchbacks/wagons, and vans, as well as mini cars in India. The company also provides parts and accessories, such as iPod and MP3 compatibility, mobility accessories, performance parts, AC parts and services, and merchandise. In addition, it offers vehicle safety, security, and information services. The company provides used vehicles. It offers its products through dealers and distributors. General Motors Company was formerly known as NGMCO, Inc. and changed its name to General Motors Company in July 2009. The company was incorporated in 2009 and is based in Detroit, Michigan. It operates manufacturing facilities in India, the United States, and Canada. General Motors Company operates as a subsidiary of the United States Department of The Treasury. General Motors led global vehicle sales for 77 consecutive years from 1931 through 2007, longer than any other automaker, and is currently among the world's largest automakers by vehicle unit sales. General Motors acts in most countries outside the USA via wholly-owned subsidiaries but operates in China through 10 joint ventures. GM's OnStar subsidiary provides vehicle safety, security, and information services. In 2009, General Motors shed several brands, closing Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer, and emerged from a government-backed Chapter 11 reorganization. In 2010, GM made an initial public offering IPOs to date and returned to profitability later that year.

General Motors Careers

Join the dynamic team at General Motors, a global leader in automotive innovation and technology. At General Motors, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career forward while contributing to a legacy of engineering excellence.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career with General Motors to drive the future of mobility. Our team is dedicated to redefining the automotive landscape through innovation and leadership in electric vehicles and sustainable solutions. By joining us, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, teamwork, and continuous professional growth.

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Innovate and Lead

At General Motors, innovation is at the core of everything we do. From research and development to manufacturing, our teams work collaboratively to lead the industry with cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. We encourage our employees to think big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Join Our Global Team

As part of our global workforce, you will collaborate with talented individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of transportation. General Motors offers a variety of career paths in engineering, design, IT, marketing, and more. With over 155,000 employees worldwide, our network provides expansive opportunities for networking and professional development.

Internship Programs and Employment Benefits

Start your career journey with a General Motors internship, where you can apply your academic knowledge to real-world projects. Our internships provide a robust foundation in the automotive industry, with mentorship from experienced leaders. Full-time employees enjoy a wealth of benefits, including comprehensive health care, retirement plans, and performance bonuses, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded.

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Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, General Motors offers positions that leverage your unique skills. Our hiring process is designed to identify and nurture talent, focusing on aligning your capabilities with the right opportunities for growth within the company.

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Learn more about General Motors
Size
157,000 employees
Market Cap
$46.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.4 billion
Founded
1908
5 Year Trend
-3.2%
Revenue
$122.4 billion
NASDAQ

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