Sr. Materials Engineer, High Nickel Cathode

We are seeking a Senior Materials Engineer to lead and support R&D initiatives focused on high-nickel cathode materials and next-generation active materials for Li-ion batteries. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in advanced cathode synthesis, characterization, and performance optimization, along with strong hands-on experience in laboratory operations and materials analysis.

• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize high-nickel and future-generation cathode materials (e.g., Ni-rich layered oxides, doped NCM/NCA systems, and coated materials)
• Collaborate cross-functionally with materials scientists, process engineers, and analytical teams to accelerate material development and scale-up
• Handle air-sensitive and hazardous materials using glove boxes, dry rooms, or fume hoods under controlled conditions
• Conduct comprehensive materials characterization, including XRD, SEM, TEM, PSD, BET, ICP, and electrochemical analysis, to evaluate structure-property relationships
• Operate and maintain synthesis, milling, and coating equipment, ensuring reproducibility and process control
• Analyze and interpret characterization data, prepare detailed technical reports, and communicate findings across teams
• Drive process improvements related to safety, efficiency, and data quality within the lab
• Maintain high standards of lab safety, cleanliness, and compliance with company and regulatory requirements

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or equivalent experience
• 4+ years of hands-on experience in high-nickel cathode materials development for Li-ion batteries
• Strong background in solid-state synthesis, co-precipitation, surface modification, and high-temperature processing
• Proven ability to analyze and interpret structural, morphological, and electrochemical data
• Experience working in glove box and dry room environments
• Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills
• Experience with next-generation cathode chemistries (e.g., Ni-rich layered oxides, single-crystal cathodes, or Li-rich materials)
• Familiarity with scale-up of cathode synthesis processes from lab to pilot scale
• Understanding of degradation mechanisms and strategies for improving high-Ni cathode stability

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

• Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical plan options with $0 payroll deduction
• Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
• Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Aetna medical plan with HSA
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
• Company paid Basic Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid Holidays
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
• Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
• Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
• Tesla Babies program
• Commuter benefits
• Employee discounts and perks program