Battery Testing Technician III

PSL’s Energy Technology Department (ETD) provides subject matter expertise on a space vehicle’s two main energy sources: solar arrays and batteries. In order to Lead from the Front, ETD studies both existing, emerging, and future energy storage technologies. As a Battery Testing Technician (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III) within ETD, you will be an integral part of an interdisciplinary team, responsible for the testing and evaluation of spacecraft battery/cell devices. Batteries are a critical part of space vehicle design. Understanding battery performance and degradation characteristics can help inform mission capabilities and life. This role requires a high degree of autonomy and initiative, as you will design and develop custom testing solutions tailored to specific project needs. You will also contribute to the research of advanced battery materials and technology for national security space customers, ensuring innovative and reliable testing methodologies are implemented. 

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour   

Work Model  

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work. Relocation is not provided for this role.

What You’ll Be Doing  

• You will work with a team of (10-20) battery scientists and test engineers to design, build, and maintain battery test stations to evaluate battery materials and performance. The majority of ETD’s battery testing requires custom-built hardware to subject space vehicle batteries to flight-like environmental and electrical conditions.

• You will set up and perform experiments on batteries and electrical equipment. This includes assembling lab materials, equipment, and chemicals and following a procedure to collect and analyze data using measurement equipment.

• In addition, you will also assist in the design and construction of new diagnostic tools.

• You may also write test procedures and equipment operational procedures to support existing and new lab tests or facilities.

• You will be responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, including building, repairing, and ensuring the calibration of the metrology equipment as well as maintaining a safe and organized laboratory environment.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for a Battery Testing Technician (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III)

• High School Diploma, GED or equivalent is required

• Minimum of (4) years in a vocational trade school or apprenticeship program

• Experience operating in a research and development/laboratory environment, adhering to laboratory safety protocols

• Ability to analyze design requirements, experimental plans, and standard processes, and propose appropriate alternatives

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and mechanical drawings, and autonomously developing solutions to mechanical and electrical problems

• Experience using mechanical tools (e.g., screwdrivers, wire strippers, crimpers) and electrical test equipment (e.g., Digital Multimeters, Benchtop Power Supplies)

• Competency in using machine tools such as drill presses, torque wrenches, 3D printers, and soldering irons for fabricating electrical assemblies and test components

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.  

How You Can Stand Out  

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:  

• (7) or more years of relevant industry or research experience with High School Diploma, GED or equivalent

• Experience with software control of measurement & test equipment  

• Background with Lithium-ion battery testing/charge control 

• Knowledge in developing electrical schematics and/or printed circuit board layouts 

• Experience with electrical/mechanical CAD