Lead Engineer, Battery Cell

Scout Motors • Novi, MI

1d • $160,000 - $192,500 • Onsite

About The Position

Scout Motors is reviving an iconic American brand, electrifying and digitizing it with American innovation. The company is committed to respect for the past and future, communities, work and play, and customers. Scout Motors empowers its teams to innovate, seeking individuals who are visionary leaders, knowledgeable doers, and passionate go-getters. Join Scout Motors to shape the future of transportation and make history by revolutionizing the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Ph.D. preferred).
• 12+ years of experience in lithium-ion battery cell design and development for automotive applications.
• Proven experience leading lithium-ion battery cell development programs from concept through production launch.
• Knowledge of Volkswagen group battery cell development and release processes.
• Strong understanding of battery testing, validation methodologies, and performance characterization techniques.
• Understanding of battery cell manufacturing processes and quality control methods.
• Knowledge of automotive battery regulations and standards, including FMVSS 305, UNECE R100, UN 38.3, IEC, and UL standards.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
• Ability to be self-sufficient with minimal direction to meet deliverables.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interface with colleagues and suppliers around the world.
• Willingness to support frequent travel domestically and internationally to supplier and development locations including Germany and Korea.
• Valid passport & drivers license required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate battery cell engineering activities between Scout, Volkswagen Group, and battery cell suppliers.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for lithium-ion battery cell technologies at Scout.
• Provide on site Scout support at cell supplier facilities at critical milestone events.
• Develop battery cell technical requirements aligned to vehicle performance, durability, and safety requirements.
• Work with R&D and cell suppliers to develop advanced battery cells, optimizing for performance, energy density, and lifespan while considering manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Work closely with suppliers and research teams to evaluate and select appropriate materials for cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, and separators to improve cell performance and safety.
• Oversee the prototyping and testing of battery cells, including performance characterization, cycle life testing, and safety assessments.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including battery pack engineers, electrical engineers, and systems engineers to integrate battery cells into complete energy storage systems to support vehicle performance and durability.
• Support lithium-ion battery cell technical evaluations.
• Monitor cell supplier development activities and qualification processes.
• Lead / Support technical discussions regarding cell design changes and problem resolution.
• Support integration of cells into modules and battery packs.
• Work with BMS, thermal, mechanical, safety, and vehicle integration teams.
• Provide technical expertise for compliance testing and certification processes.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to drive innovation in battery cell technology.

Benefits

• Competitive insurance including: Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with: An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including: 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
• 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
• Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
• Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave
• Pay Transparency
• Annual performance bonus program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior