Cell Testing Engineer

Joby Aviation Joby Aviation · Robotics · San Carlos, CA · Powertrain & Electronics

Joby Aviation is seeking a Cell Testing Engineer to develop and quantify performance metrics for EVTOL applications, focusing on cell-testing design, protocol development, data analysis, and interpretation. The role involves working with design, safety, and simulation engineers to impact battery architecture decisions and support key engineering decisions.

What you'd actually do

  1. Develop novel and targeted methods of characterizing cell performance as they relate to aircraft performance and regulatory requirements
  2. Define comprehensive performance criteria for new cell designs, encompassing electrochemical, mechanical, and safety requirements, in partnership with internal engineering teams
  3. Own test planning and execution for validation of new cell technologies, root-causing of degradation/failure mechanisms, and battery algorithm certification
  4. Actively monitor data, trouble-shoot tests and equipment, and use data manipulation and visualization skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) to effectively convey complex model and test results to fellow engineers and cross-functional teams
  5. Process data for parameter estimation and develop simulations and models to conduct sensitivity studies for cell design relative to aircraft performance metrics such as range, lifetime, and product value

Skills

Required

  • MS or above in in materials science, chemistry, electrical engineering, or related field
  • Experience with large-scale, structured li-ion testing operations and programming cell cyclers (e.g. Arbin, Maccor)
  • Strong critical reasoning mindset and capable of interpreting and making testing decisions based on first principles and academic research
  • Experienced in statistical analysis and data visualization with great written, verbal, and presentation skills
  • Deep understanding of the relationship between physical cell design parameters and the inputs/outputs of mathematical models
  • Willingness to get hands dirty and work with team-members on all levels of test execution, whether it be performing fixturing modifications or performing calibrations

Nice to have

  • Doctoral degree in a relevant engineering or science field
  • Experience in lithium-ion cell design, cell qualification, cell manufacturing, battery module design, and/or supply chain
  • Experience in developing empirical or physics-based models of dynamic systems, preferably including lithium-ion batteries and their aging mechanisms
  • Understanding of cell failure mechanisms and experience with abuse testing methods
  • Strong background in Python or other language for data processing and visualization
  • Familiarity with data pipelines and querying relational databases such as SQL
  • Sensing and data acquisition knowledge

What the JD emphasized

  • regulatory requirements
  • data manipulation and visualization skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • simulations and models