Cathode Design Engineer

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

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 privacy@redwoodmaterials.com.
• The company values safety, environmental responsibility, and innovation, and encourages employees to contribute to these principles in their daily work.