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R&D Operator

LiCAP Technologies · Sacramento, CA,yesterday,verified 5 h ago
$40k – $44kfrom the posting

High school-level Manufacturing / Production roles on Crosslinked list a median of $52k (560 that show pay).

Run dry electrode pilot-line equipment and build electrode and cell samples to support battery R&D engineers.

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Worth knowing

Why it is interesting. Hands-on with ADE solvent-free dry electrode process, calendering and dry-room/glovebox work as a 500 MWh/yr line scales

Might not be for you. Procedure-following operator role; little independent research, and requires standing, lifting 50 lbs and low-humidity dry rooms

Mostly at the benchHands-on execution First industry roleCareer changer welcomeBS acceptable Realistic requirements

Adjacent materials role:Operate dry electrode pilot equipment: mixing, film forming, calendering, lamination; prepare electrode and cell samples in dry-room/glovebox

Seniority
Technician
Work
On-site
Type
Full-time
Degree
High school
Experience
1+ yrs
Industry
Energy
Role
Manufacturing / Production
Benefits
hands-on clean-tech training

Role details

LiCAP Technologies is a Sacramento-based battery materials company commercializing the Activated Dry Electrode® (ADE®) process — a solvent-free manufacturing technology that cuts battery production costs, energy use, and carbon emissions by up to 70%. Named a Fast Company Top 10 Most Innovative Company in Automotive (2026), LiCAP is scaling a 500 MWh/year cathode production line at its new facility and supplying leading automotive OEMs. We're a ~45-person team at a pivotal growth stage, backed by major grant funding and commercial contracts. If you want your work to matter for the energy transition, this is where to be.

The Role

The R&D Operator runs pilot equipment and builds test samples to support our engineers’ development work. You’ll follow procedures closely, record accurate data, and help turn experiments into repeatable processes. This is a hands-on role for someone who is careful, curious, and wants to grow with a technology company.

What You’ll Do

  • Operate R&D and pilot-line equipment for dry electrode processing, including mixing, film forming, calendering, and lamination, following work instructions
  • Prepare, assemble, and label electrode and cell samples, including work in dry-room or glovebox environments
  • Measure and inspect samples for thickness, weight, and visual defects, and log results accurately
  • Load and monitor test equipment, and flag out-of-spec results to engineers
  • Keep materials, inventory, and the work area organized using 5S practices
  • Perform basic equipment cleaning and routine maintenance, and report any issues
  • Follow all safety, PPE, and material-handling procedures
  • Support engineers on special projects and trials as needed

What You Bring

  • High school diploma or GED
  • At least 1 year of experience in manufacturing, a lab, or production operations, preferably in batteries, chemicals, electronics, or precision assembly
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow written procedures exactly
  • Basic computer skills, including Excel and data entry
  • Reliable and punctual, and comfortable working both independently and on a team
  • Able to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and wear PPE, including in low-humidity dry rooms

Nice to Have

  • Experience with batteries, ultracapacitors, or electrode/coating processes
  • Cleanroom, dry-room, or glovebox experience
  • Associate degree or coursework in a technical field
  • Forklift certification

Pay & Benefits

  • $19.00–$21.00/hour depending on experience, non-exempt (overtime eligible)
  • [Medical / dental / vision]
  • 401(k) with [match details]
  • [PTO / paid holidays]
  • Hands-on training in a cutting-edge clean-tech process

LiCAP Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

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Common questions

What is the salary for the R&D Operator role at LiCAP Technologies?

The listed annual base salary range is $40K–$44K. This figure is taken from the posting itself.

Does LiCAP Technologies sponsor H-1B visas?

LiCAP Technologies has filed H-1B petitions with the US Department of Labor in past years, but this specific posting does not explicitly mention sponsorship for the R&D Operator role. Confirm with the employer before applying if visa support is required.

Where is the R&D Operator role at LiCAP Technologies based?

This role is based in Sacramento, CA.

What degree is required for the R&D Operator role at LiCAP Technologies?

This role asks for a high school diploma or equivalent.

How many years of experience does this R&D Operator role require?

The posting calls for at least 1 year of relevant experience.

What techniques or methods are required for this R&D Operator role?

thickness measurement, visual defect inspection, weight measurement.