Quality Engineer II

ABOUT SOUTH 8 TECHNOLOGIES
South 8 Technologies, Inc. is a fast-growing and well-funded group backed by leading global organizations. We have developed a breakthrough new Liquefied Gas Electrolyte chemistry for next-generation lithium batteries. Our patented technology enables a substantial increase in energy, improved safety, and an exceptionally wide operating temperature. Leveraging conventional materials and manufacturing, South 8 Technologies offers a unique solution for a variety of e-mobility, energy storage, and industrial applications.

South 8 Technologies, Inc. was founded in 2015 and spun out of UC San Diego's Jacobs School of Engineering. We are a diverse team, which values integrity and hard work in an environment that encourages creative thinking, collaboration, and honest feedback. Become a critical member of our team and grow alongside us as we transform the energy landscape.

JOB SUMMARY
Essential contributor to the development, documentation, and maintenance of South 8's Quality Management System (QMS), supporting quality assurance, supplier development, and production support efforts in the battery cell manufacturing space. Monitor production and supplier performance, analyzing data to drive continual improvement efforts and ensure quality cells are being delivered to a growing customer base. A strong work ethic, excellent attention to detail, and outstanding relationship building skills are required.

DESCRIPTION
Become a critical member of our fast-growing team working to develop breakthrough battery technology and change the way batteries are made and used worldwide to enable a greener future. In this position, you will be a critical part of our core team, helping take next-generation chemistries and packaging them into advanced battery cells.

We are looking for a skilled, dependable, and detail-oriented Quality Engineer II, to join our team in the Bay Park area of San Diego, CA. The candidate will draw from previous experience ideally in the battery cell industry. The ideal candidate will be driven, process and quality oriented, and able to work independently to support continuous cell production in a fast-growing organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide Quality support for product quality manufacturing issues ensuring compliance with applicable regulations/standards as well as providing sound technical guidance.
• Review Customer POs to identify applicable quality and regulatory requirements and coordinate with commercial team, engineering, and other stakeholders as needed to ensure compliance.
• Act as customer advocate, analyzing customer feedback, supporting complaint resolution and addressing specific customer quality requirements.
• Promote and facilitate continual improvement efforts. Collect and analyze data related to production quality and performance, communicating results and championing improvement activities.
• Perform defect investigation and troubleshooting. Oversee corrective actions to eliminate root cause of known issues and prevent recurrence.
• Monitor supplier performance and interface to support supplier quality efforts. Includes verification that supplier inspection and test processes are sufficient to ensure conformance with South 8 requirements.
• Issue and facilitate supplier corrective action requests (SCARs) as needed.
• Support new product introduction process, representing QA as needed, and ensuring voice of the customer is forefront to the process.
• Perform, promote, and maintain quality control processes ensuring quality products are shipped to customers.
• Plan, perform, and report results from internal and supplier audits as needed.
• Inspect and analyze battery hardware and cells in a laboratory setting, including inside of a glovebox, fume hood, and under magnification.
• Operation of various machines, custom equipment, gauges, and test instruments to identify and investigate failures in battery components and assembly.
• Develop, document, and follow applicable written procedures (Work Instructions, SOPs).
• Support other departments in development and improvement of ISO compliant processes for both current cell production and scaled-up future commercial activities.
• Follow protocols for safe handling of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Maintain an organized and functional workspace with general duties.
• Other duties requested by the company.
• Deliver epic High Fives.

REQUIREMENTS

• BS + 3-5 years experience working in a production and/or laboratory environment, preferably in batteries.
• Strong leadership, conflict resolution, and communication skills are crucial. Must be able to build relationships with various stakeholders, drive improvements, and work well within teams.
• Attention to detail with efficient and accurate data logging skills.
• Solid understanding and experience applying quality practices, metrics, and statistical analysis methods.
• Familiarity with measurement and inspection techniques and equipment.
• Knowledge of battery cell construction and electrochemical testing preferred.
• Experience with implementing automation initiatives preferred.
• Experience with ERP and MES systems. Experience with system implementation a plus.
• Experience managing and reporting on production data.
• Familiarity with chemical and hazardous material handling best practices.
• Familiarity with laboratory process equipment including pumps, valves, temperature and pressure measurement devices preferred.
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task, lift 35 lbs, and stand for extended periods of time.
• Dexterous - able to safely grasp, move, or assemble small objects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products.
• An aptitude for learning new things and a keen eye for improving processes.

At the time of posting, the expected starting salary range for this role is $95,000 - $145,000. This is a salary exempt position. The actual pay depends on multiple individualized factors, including education, job-related knowledge, experience, and skills, which will be assessed during the interview process. The comprehensive compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as health benefits, 401k, and company stock options. The base pay range and package is subject to change and may be modified in the future.