Sr. Process Engineer

Sr. Process EngineerHayward CABlue Current (the "Company") is the industry leader in the development of silicon solid state batteries. Free of flammable liquid electrolytes, Blue Current's fully dry, inherently safe batteries significantly reduce risks to human and environmental health while providing a higher-performance alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Blue Current's silicon-based platform is highly adaptable, enabling a cost-effective solution for both the mobility and stationary storage markets. Blue Current's team works out of its state-of-the-art headquarters and pilot line facility in Hayward, California.Blue Current is seeking a hands-on Senior Process Engineer for developing formulation and coating processes for next generation separators used in Blue Current's solid-state batteries. The ideal candidate will have a background in formulation, coating and characterization in the battery or adjacent industry (fuel cell/ solar/ electronic materials, etc). Additional experience in electrochemistry of lithium-ion batteries is a bonus. The Senior Process Engineer will design and conduct experiments for prototyping and characterizing new separator formulations and architectures, and collaborate with the Cell Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing teams for qualifying through cell builds and scaling up to the pilot line. This is a highly cross-functional, hands-on and fast-paced position with a team of scientists and engineers that have a shared passion to change the energy storage landscape.Essential Functions & ResponsibilitiesDevelop and test new materials, formulation, mixing and coating processes for separators that enable safe, high energy density solid-state batteries.Characterize slurry and separator quality using rheological, mechanical, imaging and electrochemical techniques, and develop new characterization methods as needed.Evaluating novel separator compositions and architectures in solid state cells. Analyze test results to understand the impact of separator properties on cell performance.Partner with the Advanced Manufacturing team to transfer mixing and coating processes to manufacturing equipment.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 performanceSupport a strong safety culture by following and improving laboratory safety practices, demonstrating exemplary experimental techniques, and helping implement best-practice updates.Minimum QualificationsEducationPhD, MS (3+ years work experience), or BS (5+ years experience) in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, with a focus on batteries, capacitors, fuel cells, or other electrochemical devicesExperienceExperience in battery R&D, with a strong focus on lithium-ion or solid-state battery systemsHands-on experience developing and scaling slurry-based processes, including mixing, coating, and dryingProven experience planning, leading, and executing R&D projects, delivering results on schedule in fast-paced environmentsDemonstrated experience collaborating cross-functionally with cell engineering, materials, and manufacturing teamsSkills & KnowledgeStrong understanding of separator materials, polymer/inorganic composites, and their role in solid-state or lithium-ion batteriesExpertise in slurry formulation, rheology, and coating science for thin-film materialsFamiliarity with analytical and characterization tools such as SEM, XRD, TGA, FTIR, DSC, and related techniquesExperience with electrochemical testing techniques such as EIS, GITT, HPPC, CV, and related methodsAbility to analyze relationships between material properties, processing conditions, and cell performanceStrong data analysis and problem-solving skills, with a structured, hypothesis-driven approachExcellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex technical findings to cross-functional teams and leadershipStrong project management, organization, and prioritization skillsPreferred QualificationsDirect experience with solid-state battery systems and separator architecturesExperience transferring processes from lab-scale to pilot or manufacturing-scale equipmentTrack record of innovation through patents, publications, or internal IP contributionsCore 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 ConditionsRequired 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 USDEqual Opportunity Employment StatementBlue Current is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.At-Will Employment & DisclaimerEmployment at Blue Current is at-will. This means that either the employee or Blue Current may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason or no reason, with or without cause, and with or without advance notice, subject to applicable law. This job description does not create an express or implied contract of employment, nor does it alter the at-will nature of the employment relationship. The duties, responsibilities, and qualifications described herein are subject to change at the Company's discretion and do not represent all tasks that may be required of this role.Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.