Senior Manager, Battery R&D

Blue Current•Hayward, CA

1d•$167,032 - $182,946

About The Position

Blue Current is seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Senior Manager, Battery R&D to define and lead the development of cathode technologies optimized for stationary energy storage applications. This role is pivotal in translating cathode materials and electrode innovations into robust, scalable solutions that meet performance, cost, safety, and lifetime requirements. The ideal candidate combines deep cathode and electrode expertise with strong people and program leadership, enabling effective execution, data-driven decision-making, and effective risk management. This leader will collaborate closely with electrolyte, anode, cell engineering, and manufacturing teams to accelerate technology readiness and ensure a clear, reliable path to commercialization.

Requirements

Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrochemistry, or a related field
8+ years of experience in battery materials
Hands-on experience with solid-state battery technologies, including cathode design, integration, and interface optimization
Proven experience leading cathode development programs from early research through scale-up and commercialization
Demonstrated experience working with solid electrolytes such as sulfides, oxides, and polymer electrolytes
Proven ability to build and lead teams in dynamic startup environments
Strong understanding of cathode–electrolyte interfacial phenomena, especially in solid-state batteries
Deep expertise in cathode active materials such as NMC, LFP, LMFP, and LMO
Expertise in cathode formulation, electrode processing, degradation mechanisms, and performance optimization for long cycle life and safety
Strong knowledge of electrochemical testing methodologies (EIS, GITT, HPPC, CV) and data interpretation
Proficiency with analytical and characterization tools (SEM, XRD, TGA, FTIR, DSC)
Strong project management and cross-functional communication skills
Demonstrated ownership, structured problem-solving, and delivery against milestones
Commitment to safety and high standards for data quality and reliability
Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment, including adherence to workplace safety protocols, data privacy standards, and confidentiality requirements.
Proven ability to identify and appropriately escalate potential risks to personnel, customers, or sensitive information.
Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and working styles.
Track record of maintaining professionalism, integrity, and discretion in all workplace interactions.
Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, execute, and follow through on responsibilities with minimal supervision.
Proven track record of setting measurable goals, meeting deadlines, and taking initiative to resolve challenges proactively.
Demonstrated commitment to quality and continuous improvement in delivering work product, solutions, and outcomes within area of expertise.
Ability to evaluate options critically and apply sound judgment to identify the most effective and scalable solution.
Demonstrated ability to quickly acquire new skills, tools, or domain knowledge in response to evolving business needs.
Proven track record of applying creative or unconventional thinking to solve problems.
Demonstrated ability to deliver results in resource-constrained environments by maximizing existing tools, processes, and partnerships.
Proven ability to adapt and find effective solutions in ambiguous or rapidly changing situations.
Demonstrated commitment to understanding and exceeding the needs of internal and/or external customers.
Track record of building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships that drive positive outcomes for all stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience leading multidisciplinary R&D teams while defining technical roadmaps and development milestones
Experience collaborating cross-functionally with cell design, manufacturing, and external partners

Responsibilities

Define and lead the cathode development strategy, aligned with product performance, cost, safety, and lifetime requirements.
Manage end-to-end cathode R&D projects, from materials selection and electrode design through cell validation and manufacturing scale-up.
Lead development of cathode chemistries optimized for low cost, long cycle life, safety, and calendar life.
Mentor and manage a high-performing cathode development team, setting technical direction, priorities, and performance goals.
Collaborate closely with electrolyte, anode, cell engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure robust cell and product designs.
Own cathode-related technical roadmaps, milestones, and risk assessments, ensuring timely execution against commercialization goals.
Oversee transition of cathode materials and electrodes from laboratory to pilot and production scale, ensuring quality, yield, and cost targets are met.
Evaluate external technologies, suppliers, and research partnerships to accelerate development and strengthen the cathode technology portfolio.
Support intellectual property generation through invention disclosures, patent filings, and high-quality technical documentation.
Communicate technical progress, trade-offs, and development status to senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
Uphold strong safety, documentation, and data integrity practices