Mechanical Engineer (Battery Technology)

Mechanical Engineer (Battery Technology)

VW. Two letters. Endless opportunities. A bright future.

Innovation. Sophistication. Optimization. This is our Passion.

Worldwide, the Volkswagen Group has a long tradition of innovations. The Volkswagen Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg, is one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. The Group comprises diverse brands in several European countries: e.g. Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, ŠKODA, Bentley, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Scania or MAN. Here in the US, we are blending German engineering with American ingenuity.

With our battery activities, we are ready to challenge the status quo. Our mission is to power the transformation towards electric mobility and renewable energy by building a local battery industry. And we believe that it is time for a new generation of batteries: Safer, more sustainable, and more resilient. Batteries with positive power. Batteries for generations to come. We are shaping the battery's future. And just as it needs a lot of different expertise to scale big projects, the battery future will be built by people with a wide range of skills and experience. We are chemists, project managers, battery experts, procurement specialists, IT professionals, sustainability experts, and more. Regardless of your background, if you are up for the challenge, join our mission and be part of the change.

Mechanical Engineer - Battery Accessory Manufacturer

Fully Onsite

Must have Battery Experience

Role Summary:

To achieve these ambitious goals, we are seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer. This is an engineer level Member of Technical Staff to our Operations Department. This individual will be responsible for designing and scaling PowerCo’s unique solid-state lithium metal batteries for high-volume production. This work includes designing first-of-its-kind automation equipment from proof-of-concept through deployment.

Role Responsibilities:

• Design, test, and validate manufacturing equipment from conception through production qualification.
• Work hands-on alongside process engineers to troubleshoot and develop solutions that increase yield and performance of cell manufacturing processes.
• Manage relationships with suppliers for product and manufacturing components.
• Identifying and implementing continuous improvement initiatives in equipment and tool design.
• Conduct mechanical analysis and experimentation to validate design choices.
• Collaborate with cell build process teams, equipment design teams, safety, quality, metrology, and production teams to execute critical path projects.

Qualifications:

• Years of Relevant Experience: Minimum years of relevant experience needed to perform the job
• 5 years in mechanical design, mechatronics, or manufacturing.
• With 3 years in manufacturing, semiconductor, or automotive engineering.

Education:

Required: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, Control, or related fields).

Desired: Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, Control, or related fields).

Skills:

• Shares a real passion for our mission and vision of a carbonless future.
• Proficient in multiple programming languages (C, C , Java, Python), CAD tools (SolidWorks), and electronics design (digital, PCB, mechanical).
• Hands-on experience with shop equipment such as mills, lathes, and 3D printers.
• Applies structured analytical reasoning and strategic problem-solving to complex technical challenges.
• Experienced in leading cross-functional projects with defined goals, budgets, timelines, and stakeholder alignment.
• Communication skills – interpersonal, ability manage relationships internally (within team, with other teams) and externally (suppliers, teams of partnering companies).
• Organized, meticulous, and has clear written and verbal communication.
• Technically adept, with fluency in digital tools, platforms, and data-driven environments.
• Ability to successfully manage projects and meet deadlines amidst changing requirements and priorities.
• Skilled in integrating systems, processes, and teams to drive cohesive and scalable outcomes.
• Embrace new challenges, learn new techniques, and surpass internal goals.
• Adaptable and resourceful, able to navigate evolving business conditions and operational challenges with agility.

• Develop and propose innovative equipment and tooling concepts for next-generation battery manufacturing lines, including presentations to executive stakeholders for strategic alignment.
• Proficient in 3D CAD design and simulation tools (e.g., Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks) with experience in specifying and validating mechanical and electromechanical components.
• Experience with automation control systems, including PLCs (Allen Bradley Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal), robots (Fanuc, KUKA), HMIs (Ignition).
• Expertise in mechanical systems, including pneumatics, sensors, motors, pumps, and actuators, along with sourcing and overseeing the installation of large equipment projects.
• Create detailed technical documentation (BOMs, test plans, validation protocols) and collaborate cross-functionally with R&D and manufacturing teams to transition prototypes into scalable series production.

• Hands-on experience in the design, maintenance, and optimization of specialized equipment used in battery cell or module production environment.
• Strong understanding of safety, quality, and compliance standards applicable to battery manufacturing and relevant environmental and material handling regulations.
• Proficient in modern industrial control system architectures, including distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) frameworks.
• Relevant certifications in mechatronics, robotics, Integration, or industrial automation systems (e.g., Siemens Certified Programmer, FANUC Robotics Handling Tool, or equivalent).

Work Flexibility:

• Work is performed in a dry room, fume hood, lab area, or glovebox requiring the use of fine motor skills.
• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time.
• Reaching and twisting motions with hands.
• Lifting up to 25 lbs.

Salary Range in San Jose, California: $121,400 - $176,300

Benefits for this position include:

• Eligibility for annual performance bonus

• Healthcare benefits

• 401(k), with company match

• Defined contribution retirement program.

• Tuition reimbursement

• Company lease car program

• Paid time off

We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

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