Associate Engineer - Battery Chemistry
Associate-level R&D / Research roles on Crosslinked list a median of $84k (13 that show pay).
Run electrode formulation DoEs, slurry mixing, coating, cell assembly and characterization for sodium-ion batteries.
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Worth knowing
Why it is interesting. Hands-on electrode slurry, coating and cell work in a glove-box lab, with direct founder access at a seed-stage sodium-ion company
Might not be for you. Associate-level bench role with PPE, solvent and fine-powder exposure rather than open-ended research
Adjacent materials role:Electrode formulation DoE, slurry mixing, coating, calendaring, peel test, rheology, resistivity measurement for sodium-ion battery electrodes
- Seniority
- Entry level
- Work
- On-site
- Type
- Full-time
- Degree
- Associate
- Experience
- No minimum
- Industry
- Energy
- Role
- R&D / Research
Role details
About Us
We are building a world-class foundational science team, founded by former Tesla leadership. We’re a well-funded seed-stage sodium-ion battery company focused on truly redefining the future of energy storage and we are very excited about it.
The Role
We are seeking a hands-on Associate Engineer to support laboratory-scale electrode development and process experimentation. In this role, you will plan and execute formulation DoEs and test plans across slurry mixing, coating, calendaring, cell assembly, electrochemical testing, and electrode-level characterization. The engineer will also support process transfer and scale-up activities in collaboration with the pilot team.
Note: This role is based in a facility involving exposure to chemical solvents, fine powders, and moving equipment. Requires adherence to strict safety protocols and PPE use.
What You’ll Do: The following responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Design and execute test plans to optimize our electrode formulation for processability and electrochemical performance
- Perform root cause investigations and brainstorm solutions
- Prepare and mix electrode slurries using centrifuge, overhead dispersing, and planetary mixers
- Work in glove-box environment for mixing air sensitive materials
- Operate lab scale coating techniques including—doctor blade drawdown, comma bar coating and small scale slot die coating
- Assemble coin cell/bi-layer pouch cells and put on cycle testing according to defined procedures and test plan
- Conduct electrode characterization work including but not limited to peel test, bend test, resistivity measurement
- Conduct slurry characterization work including but not limited to rheology tests and grain gauge
- Assist with new process development, new tool sourcing and commissioning, equipment modifications as needed
- Follow 6S standards and maintain lab cleanliness and conduct
Qualifications We’re Seeking
- Associate degree or technical certification in manufacturing, materials science, chemistry, or engineering technology. B.S. in chemical, materials science, mechanical engineering or hard science degree strongly preferred
- Ability to design and execute SOPs and DoE’s with moderate support from more senior engineers
- Working knowledge of electrode materials and formulations
- Strong critical thinking skills and experience with root cause analysis
- Strong attention to detail and observation skills
- Good documentation and organizational skills
- Comfort working with fine powders, industrial solvents, and chemical handling procedures
- Ability to work and wear required PPE (respirators, gloves, safety glasses) for extended periods
Bonus / Preferred
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in battery lab-scale development work (high formulation iteration), manufacturing or electrode production
- Experience with and knowledge of polymer science
- Familiarity with electrode and slurry characterization protocols and equipment (Rheometer, Force Test systems)
- Familiarity with coin cell/pouch cell assembly and testing
- Familiarity with slurry mixing equipment (centrifuge, planetary and dual-shaft mixers)
- Experience with NMP or other solvent-based processing and associated safety protocols (ATEX/explosion-proof environments a plus)
- Basic mechanical aptitude — comfortable adjusting equipment settings, troubleshooting minor issues, and performing changeovers.
Work Environment
- Innovative / flexible / yet fast-paced development environment
- Very close collaboration with technical team and stakeholders across the company
- Small, growing, international team from 7+ countries
- Office snacks include healthy options, chips, drinks
- Onsite work schedule currently
Why join
- Ground-floor opportunity to shape both the science and the culture of a well-funded seed-stage company
- Direct access to founders; no bureaucratic barriers to pursuing bold ideas
- Work on a problem that matters - sodium-ion is one of the most consequential battery chemistries of the next decade
Benefits: As a full-time regular employee, you're eligible for the following.
- Competitive salary + meaningful early-stage equity
- Flexible time off (for exempt employees)
- Medical Healthcare Insurance, plus additional coverage offered for family members
- Dental and Vision Insurance, plus additional coverage offered for family members
- HSA (Health Savings Account) option
- FSA (Flexible Spending Account) option
Compensation Range: $90K - $100K
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