Mechanical Engineer – Materials

almost 2 years ago
Full time role
Emeryville, CA, US... more
Emeryville, CA, US... more

Company

Sila Nanotechnologies is an electronics company that offers new battery materials chemistry. It works directly with leading consumer electronics and ...

View Company Profile

Job Description

Who You Are

You are a hands-on, team-oriented engineer with an aptitude for learning new things and a desire to share your knowledge with others. 

You will focus on optimizing the performance of our materials in state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries. You will do this by applying your knowledge of mechanics of materials, fracture mechanics, and materials reliability to electrode- and cell-level systems. You will study and analyze the stress-strain behavior of our anode systems (comprised of active material, polymer binder, and copper foil) and will use this analysis to identify optimal material properties.

You will be working cross-functionally with scientists, process engineers, technicians, and program managers, so mental flexibility and collaborative problem-solving abilities are required. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive range of technical know-how, a versatile cooperative skill set, and a resilient passion to bring our products to market.

Responsibilities & Duties

  • Develop knowledge on fracture mechanics behavior and failure modes of electrodes made with Sila material. Use knowledge generated to recommend corrective strategies to improve performance
  • Develop or improve upon existing mechanical testing techniques to determine material property-performance relationships and accelerate detection of failure modes
  • Work independently to direct projects, effectively prioritize experiments, troubleshoot problems, and drive results to completion
  • Effectively communicate ideas, expertise, and results internally across diverse Sila teams to collaboratively accomplish cross-functional goals
  • Proactively invest in our company values and vision and champion them as we grow

Knowledge & Skills

  • Hands-on experimentation and product development skills paired with an analytical ability to evaluate from first-principles understanding
  • Knowledge of mechanics of materials, fracture mechanics, failure modes and ability to determine material, process and design contributions 
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and improve upon them
  • Holistic and practical approach to problem solving, driven by curiosity and attention to detail
  • Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering (Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Chemistry preferred)
  • 5+ years of work experience (fewer for candidates with an advanced degree)
  • Experience with lithium-ion battery chemistry/construction/failure analysis is a plus
  • Knowledge of chemistry (organic, polymer, inorganic), electrochemistry and materials science and related characterization techniques is a plus

Physical Demands & Work Conditions

  • Work in a laboratory using glove boxes and fume hoods and associated PPE such as lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses
  • Pass a respirator fit test and wear respiratory protection on an occasional basis
  • Work on a computer screen for an extended period of time

 

Similar jobs





Sila Nanotechnologies is an electronics company that offers new battery materials chemistry. It works directly with leading consumer electronics and ...

View Company Profile

Similar jobs