Sr. Staff Scientist, Analytical Development

We are Sila, a next-generation battery materials company. Our mission is to power the world’s transition to clean energy. To create this future, our team is building a better lithium-ion battery from the inside out today. We engineer and manufacture ground-breaking battery materials that significantly increase the energy density of batteries, while reducing their size and weight. The result? Smaller more powerful batteries that can unlock innovation in consumer devices and accelerate the mass adoption of electric cars to eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels. We're tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time every day, and together we're redefining what's possible. Are you ready to be a part of a team committed to changing the world?

As a Senior Staff Scientist on the Analytics Team, you are a creative, collaborative, and hands-on analytical scientist with extensive experience in developing and validating analytical methods on a variety of instruments. You are a passionate and knowledgeable technical leader in analytical chemistry, material characterization, process control, and related topics. You are adept at building cross-functional relationships and leading by influence. You approach complex technical problems with curiosity, persistence, and high standards. You pride yourself on being resourceful and independent, able to effectively manage multiple projects and deliver results on time in a fast-paced environment with constantly evolving information. You know how to be a thoughtful, supportive mentor and team member, ready to give and receive feedback with humility. 

• Independently scope, plan, and lead complex analytical development projects involving multiple teams to strategically address key business needs.


• Mentor multiple Senior Scientists on the Analytics Team, fostering growth and guiding them to deliver consistently excellent outcomes.


• Drive continuous improvements to our analytical development processes, standards, and organizational structures based on your experience of what works. 


• Develop new analytical methods for use in R&D and Quality Control. You will set an example of how to: 
  
  
  
  • Identify and propose solutions that best meet business and technical needs, ensuring cross-functional alignment with engineers and management 
  
  
  • Evaluate, select, procure and install analytical instrumentation as necessary.
  
  
  • Establish best practices in sample preparation, instrumental analysis, data analysis, and result reporting.
  
  
  • Write Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), train team members, and conduct rigorous Measurement System Analyses (MSA).
  
  
  • Prepare validation reports and present technical data to engineering and quality teams.
  
  
  
  

• Degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent with a minimum of 10 years (Bachelor’s degree), 7 years (Master’s degree), or 5 years (PhD) of industry experience in analytical method development.


• Significant experience in analytical method development through all phases of maturity, from ideation to implementation and validation. Must have experience using MSA methods like Range, Bias, Linearity, ANOVA, Gage R&R, Control Charts, etc. Experience with JMP is a plus.


• Deep fundamental understanding and experience with quantitative analysis. 


• Expertise in multiple relevant analytical techniques such as laser particle size analysis (LPSA), Raman spectroscopy, BET gas adsorption analysis, density analysis (bulk, tap, envelope, skeletal, true), TGA, ICP, XRF, SEM-EDS, XRD, dynamic image analysis, gas chromatography, and others. 


• Excellent oral and written communication skills; able to convey complex information effectively to diverse audiences


• Ability to think deeply and critically in order to solve problems and develop strategies within a cross-functional team


• Can effectively manage multiple responsibilities, is self-motivated, and can work autonomously with minimal guidance


• (Preferred) Experience in highly regulated laboratories and production environments (FDA, AIAG, VDA, ISO 17025).


• (Preferred) Experience with proper sampling of powder and granular materials.

• Operate a computer and other office equipment, such as a laptop, copier/printer, etc in a fixed location


• Precise and repetitive use of hands - light to forceful handling of a range of material quantities.


• Wear personal protective equipment including, but not limited to, a lab coat, gloves, safety glasses, and steel toe safety shoes.


• Pass a respirator fit test and be able to wear respiratory protection.

The starting base pay for this role is between $172,000 and $218,000 at the time of posting. The actual base pay depends on many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. Base pay is only one part of Sila’s competitive Total Rewards package that can include benefits, perks, equity, and bonuses.  The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

We believe that building a diverse team at Sila helps us amplify our individual talents. We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to creating an inclusive environment where good ideas are free to come from anyone. We are proud to celebrate diversity and all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, national origin, or any other status protected by law.