Position SummaryAs a Sr. Electrolyte Scientist, you will be focused on synthesizing and characterizing new solid state electrolyte materials, with a focus on inorganic materials. You will be designing and assessing novel electrolyte materials for targeted improvement of Blue Current's solid state cells. Hands-on experience in materials synthesis, processing, and characterization 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- Synthesize inorganic solid electrolyte materials, targeting properties that improve performance, manufacturability, or cost
- Characterize and evaluate solid electrolyte materials and their interactions with other battery components, developing new characterization methods as needed
- 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 materials synthesis or characterization
Experience- Hands-on experience synthesizing solid state materials by various methods, such as thermal, mechanochemical, or solvent-mediated
- Development of structure-property and/or process-property relationships for materials development
- Materials characterization with various techniques such as XRD, SEM, DSC, TGA, Raman, or FTIR
- Experience planning, leading, and executing R&D projects
- Demonstrated experience collaborating cross-functionally with co-workers with various technical expertise including cell engineering, electrode development, and manufacturing teams
Skills & Knowledge- Familiarity with solid-state ion-conducting material classes, and techniques for their synthesis and characterization
- 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- Prior experience synthesizing solid state Li-ion conducting materials
- Experience with electrochemical testing techniques such as EIS, CV, etc
- Experience with solid-state battery systems
- Track record of innovation through patents, publications, or internal IP contributions
- Previous experience working in an industry R&D environment
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-$160,000 USD
