Must be able to travel occasionally during initial cell expansion project startup phase, with option to become shift tied mid 2024.
- Perform a variety of routine testing on battery cells and associated materials following established procedures including: Chemical properties of raw materials such as electrolyte composition, acid and moisture contents, solution preparation, reaction set-up, filtration, waste handling; Visual microscope-assisted inspections; Dimensional measurements; Mechanical properties testing including tensile strength and elongation; Particle size distribution, moisture content and other powder properties; Conductivity and other electrical measurements; General characterization of powder materials (sample preparation for SEM, ICP, Tap density, etc.)
- Lead instrument installation, calibration, method development, and test validation (MSA, GRR, etc.) for various analytical analysis methods related to cell manufacturing
- Comprehend and interpret chemical analysis data generated by various laboratory instruments, generate laboratory test reports
- Support and troubleshooting of equipment. Ability to trouble shoot small issues and work with external vendors for major issues.
- Provide input for the continued improvement to test procedures. Draft changes to standard operating procedures
- Maintain inventory of consumable supplies and chemicals
- Perform preventative maintenance on equipment as required and enforce 5S and workplace hygiene standards
- Bachelor's of Science Degree in Chemistry or other related science, or equivalent
- 2+ years practical hands-on experience with chemical/materials analysis instrumentation (SEM/EDS, GC-MS, ICP-OES, IC, titration, pH, etc.). Familiar with laboratory operations and ensuring a safe working environment.
- Preferred prior experience with battery manufacturing and testing associated cells and raw materials
- Ability to quickly learn Tesla in-house chemical analysis methods and operation of equipment and capable of carrying out careful sample preparation and safe chemical handling required for chemical tests
- Detail-oriented, able to work both independently and in a collaborative project-focused environment, prompt and dependable, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excels at performing repetitive tasks where both high degrees of accuracy and precision are required
- Able to perform diverse manual tasks related to laboratory work, including the safe handling of heavy objects, maneuvering large pallets using a pallet jack, and managing incoming materials
- Strong understanding of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and use of internal quality systems and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and must have command of the English language, both written and verbal