Principal, Battery Cell Technical Specialist

Scout Motors • Novi, MI

1d • $170,000 - $206,250 • Onsite

About The Position

Scout Motors is bringing back an iconic American vehicle, electrifying and digitizing it with American innovation. We are building a company that respects the past and future, communities, work and play, and our customers. We offer two powertrains: an all-electric and the Harvester™ range extender. We empower our teams to innovate, seeking visionary leaders who are knowledgeable doers, collaborators, and passionate go-getters. Join us to shape the future of transportation and make history.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Ph.D. preferred).
• 15+ 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 driver's license required.
• Passport 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: Principal