Cathode Design Engineer

Cathode Design Engineer at Redwood Materials

About the role Redwood Materials is seeking a dedicated Cathode Design Engineer to join our innovative Cathode R&D team. This position plays a critical role in advancing the development of cathode active materials (CAM) and their manufacturing processes, with the goal of supporting a sustainable circular economy for lithium-ion batteries. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating across teams to scale laboratory findings into practical, industrial-scale processes. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge battery technology and sustainability initiatives, working in a dynamic environment that values innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Key facts

• Location: McCarran, NV
• Engagement: Full-time
• Team: Cathode R&D

What you'll do

• Design, plan, and execute experiments to gather critical data that will inform the scale-up of cathode active material production, optimize process parameters, improve material performance, and reduce manufacturing costs.
• Analyze experimental results to identify process improvements, troubleshoot issues, and develop robust manufacturing workflows suitable for industrial production.
• Provide engineering insights, including performing mass and energy balances, developing flowsheets, and utilizing process simulation tools to identify suitable technologies for CAM manufacturing.
• Collaborate closely with equipment suppliers throughout all phases of project development, including concept design, detailed engineering, procurement, installation, and acceptance testing, ensuring equipment meets process requirements.
• Assist in developing a comprehensive technology roadmap that aligns with the company's strategic goals and customer needs, leading various technology projects from conception through implementation.
• Contribute to intellectual property development by working with the legal team to draft, file, and manage patent applications related to process innovations and material developments.
• Support commercial teams and business development efforts by providing technical guidance, feasibility assessments, and process validation data to demonstrate manufacturing capabilities.
• Document process designs, experimental procedures, results, and process improvements thoroughly for internal records, patent applications, and regulatory compliance.
• Stay informed about advancements in cathode materials, processing techniques, and related technologies to continuously improve processes and maintain a competitive edge.
• Promote safety, environmental standards, and best practices in all process development activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in scaling laboratory processes to pilot and industrial levels, ensuring smooth technology transfer and process robustness.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to support new product development, process optimization, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers and technicians working on cathode material projects.
• Contribute to the development of process control strategies and quality assurance protocols to ensure consistent product quality.
• Engage with external partners, vendors, and research institutions to stay at the forefront of cathode technology and manufacturing innovations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related technical field.
• Proven ability to understand and apply engineering principles to solve complex process development problems.
• Between 1 and 5 years of industrial experience in process development, scale-up, process engineering, or related fields within the battery or materials industry.
• Strong knowledge of inorganic materials processing, including solids handling, calcination, hydrometallurgy, or chemical processing techniques.
• Experience working with thermal equipment such as dryers, kilns, or calcination furnaces, and familiarity with powder handling, loading, dosing, mixing, conveying, milling, and solid-liquid separation equipment.
• Ability to perform detailed process design calculations, including mass and energy balances, and develop process flow sheets using simulation tools.
• Strong analytical skills, with proficiency in data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of technical results.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot process issues and implement effective solutions.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, capable of preparing technical reports, presentations, and patent documentation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to sustainability, clean energy, and environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.
• Willingness to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving project requirements.

Nice to have

• Experience with advanced manufacturing techniques or emerging battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries or next-generation cathode materials.
• Familiarity with laboratory and pilot-scale equipment used in cathode material production, including analytical instruments and characterization tools.
• Knowledge of process simulation software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar platforms.
• Experience working with ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) or other export control regulations related to battery technology.
• Background in intellectual property development, including patent drafting and filing.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in process simulation and modeling software.
• Strong data analysis skills using tools such as Excel, MATLAB, or Python.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment for materials synthesis and characterization, including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and electrochemical testing.
• Experience with process control systems and automation is a plus.

Practical notes

• This role is based in McCarran, NV, which features pilot plant facilities dedicated to cathode active material production, as well as advanced analytical and electrochemical laboratories.
• Compensation will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Redwood Materials is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.

During the application process, personal information will be collected for employment purposes. If you have questions about privacy or data handling, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io.

The company values safety, environmental responsibility, and innovation, and encourages employees to contribute to these principles in daily work.