Position SummaryAs a Sr. Cell Engineer, you will be focused on developing new solid state electrode materials with a specific focus on Blue Current's composite cathode technology. Through careful design of experiments, you will be testing and integrating novel cathode active materials and solid electrolytes into a solid-state battery cathode. Hands-on experience in electrochemistry of lithium-ion battery, electrode formulations and processing is required. A background in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, or a related field is preferred. This position will offer hands-on, fast-paced work in a growing team that has a shared passion to change the energy storage landscape.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities- Develop and test composite solid state cathode materials and formulations that improve cell performance and safety.
- Prepare and characterize solid state cathode composites and slurries (for example, rheology, stability, conductivity, dispersion, etc.) using state-of-the-art tools.
- Optimize and engineer composite solid-state cathodes based on a strong understanding of how that cathode interacts with the solid electrolyte.
- Assemble solid state cells and perform electrochemical testing to analyze the impact of cathode active materials and electrode composition on cell performance.
- Characterize cell materials using various analytical (e.g. SEM, XRD, TGA, etc.) and electrochemical (e.g. EIS and CV) techniques.
- Document and analyze electrochemical tests and analytical characterization results to measure the impact of cathode material properties on cell performance.
- Clearly communicate complex results to cross-functional teams and senior leadership.
- Work with cross-functional teams ensuring high-quality, on-schedule execution of projects.
- Continuously survey and interpret literature on solid-state battery materials and architectures, integrating key insights into the company's technical strategies.
- Contribute to the company's IP portfolio by exploring novel materials, cell designs, and processing approaches that advance solid-state cell performance.
- Support a strong safety culture by following and improving laboratory safety practices, demonstrating exemplary experimental techniques, and helping implement best-practice updates.
Minimum QualificationsEducation- PhD, MS (with 3+ years of industry experience), or BS (with 5+ years of experience) in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, with a focus on batteries or electrochemical devices
Experience- Experience in battery R&D, with a strong focus on lithium-ion or solid-state battery systems
- Demonstrated experience working with electrochemical materials, cathodes, or full-cell development in an industry or applied research environment
- Experience preparing and optimizing composite cathodes, including slurry formulation and processing
- Hands-on experience assembling cells and performing electrochemical testing to evaluate material and cell performance
- Proven ability to plan, execute, and deliver on R&D projects in collaboration with cross-functional teams
Skills & Knowledge- Experience with electrochemical testing techniques such as EIS, GITT, HPPC, CV, and related methods
- Familiarity with analytical and characterization tools such as SEM, XRD, TGA, FTIR, DSC, and related techniques
- Ability to analyze and interpret relationships between material properties, electrode design, and cell performance
- Strong data analysis, documentation, and structured problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex technical results to cross-functional teams and leadership
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively to solve technical challenges
- High attention to detail and commitment to experimental rigor and data quality
- Commitment to safety and experience following and improving laboratory best practices
Preferred Qualifications- Direct experience with solid-state battery systems, particularly composite cathodes and solid electrolytes
- Experience with slurry rheology, dispersion, and stability optimization for electrode fabrication
- Familiarity with advanced characterization or in situ/operando techniques
- Track record of innovation through patents, publications, or internal IP contributions
Core Values - Minimum QualificationsSafety & Security FirstFor employees, customers, and intellectual property
- Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment, including adherence to workplace safety protocols, data privacy standards, and confidentiality requirements.
- Proven ability to identify and appropriately escalate potential risks to personnel, customers, or sensitive information.
Trust & RespectTreat everyone with honesty, dignity, and sensitivity. Embrace different perspectives. Be humble.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and working styles.
- Track record of maintaining professionalism, integrity, and discretion in all workplace interactions.
Ownership & AccountabilityTake responsibility and action. Set goals and deliver. Don't wait for others.
- Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, execute, and follow through on responsibilities with minimal supervision.
- Proven track record of setting measurable goals, meeting deadlines, and taking initiative to resolve challenges proactively.
Technical ExcellenceAlways strive for the best solution possible.
- Demonstrated commitment to quality and continuous improvement in delivering work product, solutions, and outcomes within area of expertise.
- Ability to evaluate options critically and apply sound judgment to identify the most effective and scalable solution.
Learn & Be CuriousThink outside the box. Always learning.
- Demonstrated ability to quickly acquire new skills, tools, or domain knowledge in response to evolving business needs.
- Proven track record of applying creative or unconventional thinking to solve problems.
Be ResourcefulBe hungry, frugal, and flexible. Use what you have. Find a way.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver results in resource-constrained environments by maximizing existing tools, processes, and partnerships.
- Proven ability to adapt and find effective solutions in ambiguous or rapidly changing situations.
Delight CustomersBuild stronger relationships with internal and external customers.
- Demonstrated commitment to understanding and exceeding the needs of internal and/or external customers.
- Track record of building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships that drive positive outcomes for all stakeholders.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions- Required to wear personal protective equipment when applicable.
- Able to pass a respirator fit test and wear a respirator periodically.
- Able to work in an office, lab, and manufacturing environment with chemicals, moving mechanical parts, and electrical hazards.
Salary Range
$111,600-$142,000 USD
