Mantell Associates
Mantell Associates is partnered with a Biotechnology company who are seeking a Battery Cell Engineer to join their growing team.
Battery Cell Engineer – Responsibilities:
- Lead cathode development, including electrode Coating Weight (CW), density, and porosity specifications, along with conductive and binder systems design, and determining N/P ratios to meet energy and power targets for specific applications
- Specify electrode materials and electrolyte blends to meet application requirements, defining relevant performance metrics
- Develop cell designs using static models and CAD tools, collaborating with modeling and battery engineering teams to ensure model accuracy
- Perform mixing and coating processes at benchtop and pilot scales
- Work with QC teams to establish acceptance criteria for incoming materials and improve material specifications
- Design and execute comprehensive test plans to evaluate cell performance
- Conduct material and cell characterization using standard tools (e.g., SEM, XRD, XPS, Raman, etc.)
- Develop electrochemical and chemical characterization methods for electrode materials, ensuring they meet performance targets
- Perform post-mortem analysis of cells to assess failure modes and inform development improvements
- Analyze and interpret statistical data on electrode and cell quality, presenting insights as needed
- Conduct root-cause analysis on failures, driving corrective actions to improve material and cell performance
- Work closely with R&D scientists to enhance understanding of cell performance, failure modes, and lifespan
- Collaborate with external suppliers, vendors, national labs, and academic institutions to advance cell development
- Assist with engineering test builds alongside quality and operations teams at manufacturing sites
- Create and maintain technical documentation, including reports, specifications, drawings, and DFMEA
- Adhere to project timelines and milestones, ensuring tasks are completed on schedule
- Contribute to supply chain efforts by developing material specifications and resolving quality issues
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support ongoing projects
Battery Cell Engineer – Requirements:
- M.S. or B.S. (with at least 2 years of industry experience) in Chemical, Mechanical, Materials, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics
- Deep understanding of electrochemical processes within lithium-ion batteries, with proven experience in battery and cell design and development
- Practical expertise in assembling and testing pouch, coin, cylindrical, and prismatic cells, alongside advanced electrochemical data analysis
- Strong proficiency in statistical analysis and Design of Experiments (DOE)
- Comprehensive knowledge of cathode materials like LFP, LMFP, LFO, and their electrochemical properties and performance
- Proficiency in SolidWorks or other CAD software for designing cells and components
- Skilled in developing precise technical specifications for materials, components, and assemblies
- Hands-on experience with moisture-sensitive materials in controlled environments such as gloveboxes or dry rooms, including expertise in cell teardown and failure analysis
- Exceptional analytical skills, with proficiency in data processing and statistical interpretation using tools like Microsoft Excel and Minitab
- Expertise in electrochemical characterization techniques, including AC impedance and cycle life testing
- Advanced skills in materials characterization using SEM, XRD, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, BET, TGA/DSC, and chromatography
- Proficiency with workshop and prototyping tools for mechanical and electrical systems, alongside experience in assembly processes
- Highly self-motivated, with the ability to manage multiple projects and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- A startup mentality: resourceful, scrappy, and creative in solving problems to meet company goals
- Willingness to do whatever it takes to hit company objectives, maintaining a hands-on, goal-driven approach
- Outstanding communication, documentation, and organizational abilities
- Solid grasp of the latest advancements in the battery industry, with a passion for staying ahead of industry trends
Mantell Associates is a specialist Pharmaceutical and Life Science headhunting firm. For more information on this opportunity, contact us at +44 (0)20 3854 7700.