Associate Engineer - Battery Lab

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