Ascend Element is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode� technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered GHG emissions. The results are lower cost, better performance batteries with fewer discarded in landfill, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.
We're seeking a skilled Battery Engineer with expertise in the disassembly, assessment, and recycling of used or end-of-life battery systems. The primary responsibility of this role will be to lead efforts in safely and efficiently disassembling battery packs, evaluating individual battery components, and ensuring proper recycling and disposal in accordance with environmental standards. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of battery technologies and their components, with a focus on maximizing the recovery of valuable materials while minimizing environmental impact.
Responsibilities include but not limited to:
- Lead the disassembly process for end-of-life or used battery packs, ensuring all safety protocols are followed to handle hazardous materials and electrical components.
- Inspect and assess individual components of disassembled batteries, including cells, modules, wiring, and protective casings, identifying those that can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.
- Work closely with recycling teams to ensure valuable materials (such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other metals) are effectively recovered from battery packs and that waste is minimized.
- Ensure the disassembly process complies with safety standards and environmental regulations, including handling hazardous substances, battery disposal guidelines, and recycling protocols.
- Investigate and analyze battery failures, degradation, or damage to identify the root causes and contribute to improving battery lifecycle management practices.
- Continuously improve the disassembly process by identifying opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and minimize environmental impact through automation or better techniques.
- Conduct testing on disassembled cells and components to determine their health and remaining capacity, evaluating potential for reuse in secondary applications or energy storage solutions.
- Work closely with recycling and processing facilities to optimize the extraction of valuable materials and develop best practices for battery recycling.
- Maintain detailed records of disassembly operations, including component condition, material recovery rates, and safety incidents, and prepare reports for regulatory compliance and internal assessments.
- Participate in R&D activities to improve battery disassembly technologies, including developing new tools, methods, and automated processes to enhance efficiency and safety.
Education / Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- 3+ years experience in battery disassembly, recycling, or lifecycle management, ideally in the automotive, energy storage, or electronics industries.
- Knowledge of battery technologies, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and other common battery chemistries.
- Strong understanding of safety regulations related to battery handling, disassembly, and disposal.
- Familiarity with battery management systems (BMS) and the electrical components of battery packs.
- Experience with diagnostic tools for testing battery health, such as capacity testers, voltage meters, and thermal analysis equipment.
- Proficiency in the use of CAD software for designing or modifying disassembly tools and systems.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues in battery systems and recommend efficient disassembly and recycling solutions.
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge of automated disassembly systems or robotics used in battery recycling.
- Experience with environmental testing and compliance in the battery recycling industry.
- Understanding of current trends and innovations in battery recycling technologies.
- Ability to work in cross-functional teams with R&D, manufacturing, and environmental compliance departments.
Ascend Elements is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.