The Ohio State University is seeking a Manufacturing Process Engineer for its one-of-a-kind Battery Cell Research and Demonstration Center. This Center is managed and operated by Ohio States Institute for Materials and Manufacturing Research (IMR) within the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge, reporting directly to the Facility and Operations Manager.
The Manufacturing Process Engineer will be responsible for participating in the design and implementation of manufacturing processes, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure the production of high-quality battery cells.
This position is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes for the production of battery cells, including electrode fabrication, coating, calendaring, slitting, assembly, and packaging; conducts experiments and performs data analysis to evaluate process parameters and optimize efficiency, yield, and product quality; identifies opportunities for process improvements and works closely with manager to implement solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs; utilizes complex skills and experience to evaluate and select equipment and machinery for battery cell processing and assembly; coordinates equipment installation, commissioning, and validation activities; develops and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment operation and maintenance; works closely with manager to develop and implement quality control measures and inspection protocols to ensure reliability and performance of battery cells; collaborate with cross-functional teams to address quality issues and implement corrective actions; prepares reports and presentations to communicate findings and provide recommendations to internal stakeholders and project sponsors; collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including faculty, students, research scientists, engineers, technicians, and external partners to support project objectives and timelines. Participates in mentoring and training. This role will also prioritize safety in all activities by developing and strictly adhering to established safety protocols and actively promoting a culture of safety, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 4 years of experience in manufacturing process engineering, preferably in the battery or energy storage industry.
Knowledge of battery chemistries, materials, and cell designs.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment used in battery cell production, including electrode fabrication, coating, assembly, and testing.
Proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools for process optimization.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
Effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate technical information clearly and concisely.
Preferred Qualifications:
4-8 years of relevant experience.
Master's degree or higher in engineering or a related field.
Experience with scale-up and commercialization of manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with quality management systems and regulatory requirements for battery manufacturing.
Hands-on experience with process simulation software and modeling tools.
Experience with Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Strong understanding of battery manufacturing or processing safety protocols and best practices in a laboratory or industrial environment.
A resume or CV is required to be submitted to be considered for this position.
Job Function: Research and Scholarship
Subfunction: Applied Research Engineering
Band/Level: S3
This position's target hiring pay range is $87,400 to $100,000. The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, the candidate's relevant work experience and qualifications, and the unit's available budget, which is the primary determining factor. This is a senior-level position that works on-site, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This is a remarkable and unique opportunity to be at the core of a cutting-edge facility while exploring opportunities for growth and performing impactful work that addresses climate change. This role fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing work alongside experts in chemistry, materials science and engineering, and mechanical engineering. Contribute to advancements in the rapidly evolving advanced battery industry. Involvement in complex R&D projects that enhance technical skills and manufacturing expertise while offering pathways to advanced roles in project management, facility management, or technical specialization in advanced manufacturing technologies. Additionally, the opportunity to mentor and train students who will enter this emerging workforce can be highly rewarding.
This position will report to the Executive Director of the Battery Center in interim of filling the Facility and Operations Manager role.
The Ohio State University is a dynamic community of diverse resources, where opportunity thrives and where individuals transform themselves and the world. Founded in 1870, Ohio State is a world-class public research university and the leading comprehensive teaching and research institution in the state of Ohio. With more than 63,000 students (including 57,000 in Columbus), the Wexner Medical Center, 14 colleges, 80 centers and 175 majors, the university offers its students tremendous breadth and depth of opportunity in the liberal arts, the sciences and the professions.