Failure Analysis Engineer

Title: Failure Analysis Engineer

Date: Apr 22, 2024

Location:

CA, US

Work Location Type: On-site

Company: QuantumScape Corporation

Description:

QuantumScape developed the industry's first anode-less cell design, which delivers high energy density while lowering material costs and simplifying manufacturing. Our innovative battery cell technology can store energy more efficiently and reliably than today's lithium-ion batteries.

Description:

We are seeking a motivated and conscientious technical contributor to join our team. You will have intellectual ownership of failure analysis method and technique development and collaborate with process experts and data analysts to identify root causes of failure. The position will interface widely across different facets of our product and directly influences development priorities. Careful perception, a strong technical background, and strong interpersonal skills are priorities for the position. Together, the New Product Introduction team is responsible for productization via integrating technologies from across the company into a device, identifying root causes for variability or failure modes, providing feedback on components, and resolving problems directly caused by the integration of the components.

What you will do:

• Be the authority on failure analysis techniques and standard methodologies.

• Work closely with the metrology and microscopy teams to evaluate, develop, and refine new techniques for detailed root cause analyses of failed batteries. Train engineers and technicians on these methods.

• Contribute to scaling up existing failure analysis processes.

• Analyze electrical and metrology data to identify behaviors contributing to failure and tie in with broader failure analysis efforts.

• Clearly and promptly communicate relevant findings as feedback to cell component and platform designers. Present findings to widespread audience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• You have experience with XCT/Radiography, DC electrical testing, impedance spectroscopy, microscopy, and/or chemical characterization methods.

• You possess a broad knowledge of materials characterization techniques.

• Experience with ceramics, thin films, and/or fracture mechanics is a plus.

• You have experience running electrical tests and/or interpreting electrical data.

• Comfort with introductory use of statistics in analysis: mean, median, mode, std. deviation/error, and normal distribution is a plus.

• You are capable of understanding and solving problems with technical depth, but also value quick turnaround and can adjust when needed to achieve company goals.

Minimum Requirements:

• Master's degree in materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering or a related field and 1+ years of experience OR a Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in a similar field

• One year or more of failure analysis experience or a materials laboratory class or similar.

• You are organized and manage your time and projects effectively.

• You are reliable and pride yourself on following through on commitments.

• You eagerly ask questions for clarification and understanding as needed.

• You love working closely with a team in an energizing environment and generally maintain a positive outlook.

• You share our real passion for our mission and are motivated by hard problems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Comfort with data analysis and/or visualization software: Python or JMP preferred, but Matlab, R, and others acceptable

Physical Requirements:

• May work in clean room, dry room environments, wet chemistry lab and/or wear neoprene or vinyl gloves

• Ability to stoop, kneel, crawl, lift, push, and extend arms

This position is required to perform these above essential duties and responsibilities onsite at our QS offices.

Compensation & Benefits: Salary range for this role is between $107,200 and $163,500, and a final salary will be determined by the candidate's experience and educational background. QuantumScape also offers an annual bonus and a generous RSU/Equity package as part of its compensation plan. In addition, we do offer a tremendous benefits plan including employee paid health care, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and other exciting perks.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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