Battery Root Cause and Materials Analysis Engineer

Battery Root Cause and Materials Analysis Engineer

Do you love solving complex problems? As a member of the Root Cause Analysis (RCA) team, you’ll have the opportunity to work on and solve challenging problems at the cutting edge of battery technology. These efforts impact a broad spectrum of Apple products to provide the best customer experience. You will have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people with expertise in wide-ranging fields that love to keep learning and growing.

Description

In this team, you will determine the root cause of various failure modes in a wide variety of battery technologies. This will involve deep analysis of electrochemical and physical characterization data to understand the main drivers of why one cell performs well, and another cell does not. A key focus of this position will be on the analysis and development of battery electrolytes.

Responsibilities include:

1. Organize and carry out characterization and battery failure analysis work to unravel causation and mechanisms and facilitate corrective actions and mitigation.
2. Acquire and interpret analytical and cell test data using materials characterization and electrochemical techniques to supplement FA activity.
3. Develop and employ characterization methods to screen and evaluate electrolyte materials for superior cell performance.
4. Design and conduct structured experiments, analyze process, metrology, materials and electrochemical characterization data, and interpret experimental results to evaluate electrolyte properties for improved battery performance.
5. Train, guide, and define tasks for technicians to facilitate work at high standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS and a minimum of 3 years relevant industry experience.
• Hands-on experience in lithium-ion battery teardown process and characterization of battery components by multiple characterization techniques such as XRD, SEM/EDS or FIB (including sample preparation methods) or related experience.
• Experience in battery materials, interfaces, electrolytes and/or electrochemistry.

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or higher degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in lithium-ion battery research, electrolyte development or failure/root cause analysis.
• Deep know-how in a variety of electrochemical techniques (CV, EIS, GITT, PITT) for battery diagnostics.
• Proficient with statistical analysis and formal problem-solving tools (DOE, ANOVA, Fishbones, FMEA, RCA, FTA, etc.).
• Strong verbal and written communication, teamwork, and project management skills.
• Attention to details, ability to work well individually and in team settings.

Additional Requirements

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $136,300 and $248,700, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.