About Blue Current

Blue Current (the “Company”) is the industry leader in the development of silicon solid state batteries. Free of flammable liquid electrolytes, Blue Current’s fully dry, inherently safe batteries significantly reduce risks to human and environmental health while providing a higher-performance alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Blue Current’s silicon-based platform is highly adaptable, enabling a cost-effective solution for both the mobility and stationary storage markets. Blue Current’s team works out of its state-of-the-art headquarters and pilot line facility in Hayward, California. To learn more about Blue Current, Inc., visit http://bluecurrent.com.

Summary

Blue Current is seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Senior Manager, Early Scaleup to lead the transition of R&D-developed solid-state battery processes into robust, intermediate-scale manufacturing. This role is pivotal in bridging the gap between lab innovation and pilot-line readiness by maturing electrode fabrication and cell assembly processes, defining process windows, and establishing reliable scaled workflows. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong operational leadership, driving disciplined execution, rapid iteration, and data-driven decision-making. The candidate will collaborate closely with R&D, Cell Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to accelerate technology readiness and ensure a smooth pathway toward full-scale production.

Key responsibilities

Lead a team of engineers and technicians responsible for translating new R&D materials, cell designs, and processes into robust, repeatable, and scalable intermediate-scale manufacturing workflows across electrode fabrication and cell assembly.
Develop and optimize scaled-up electrode processes, including slurry formulation, mixing, tape casting or dry processing, drying, and calendaring, ensuring stable operation, defined process windows, and strong correlation to both R&D and pilot-line requirements.
Scale cell assembly operations such as electrode punching, stacking or winding, lamination, and formation/conditioning, driving improvements in yield, consistency, and throughput.
Define and execute scale-up roadmaps, setting clear deliverables, timelines, and success metrics while coordinating resources across equipment, materials, analytical, and manufacturing teams.
Own equipment strategy for early-scale processes, including specification, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and validation of semi-automated or small-format tools.
Establish CTQs, process windows, SOPs, and quality controls to ensure reliable operation and smooth transfer of maturing processes to the pilot line.
Lead root-cause analyses and structured problem-solving efforts, using DOE, statistical analysis, and failure analysis tools to resolve yield, performance, and equipment-related issues.
Collaborate closely with R&D, Cell Engineering, Analytical, and Advanced Manufacturing to align process requirements, ensure manufacturability, and maintain tight feedback loops that accelerate technology iteration.
Build and develop a high-performing engineering and technician team, providing mentorship, technical guidance, and strong operational leadership.
Champion a strong safety culture, ensuring safe scaling of materials, processes, and equipment while continuously improving safety protocols and training.

Requirements

BS/MS/PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline, with 8+ years of industry experience in lithium-ion or solid-state battery manufacturing, process engineering, or scale-up.
Demonstrated expertise in scaling battery processes from lab-scale to pre-pilot or intermediate scale, including slurry mixing, dry processing, drying, calendaring, punching, stacking, winding, lamination, pouching, and formation.
Hands-on experience with equipment specification, installation, commissioning, and validation, particularly for semi-automated or custom early-scale tools.
Proven ability to establish process windows, CTQs, SOPs, control plans, and quality metrics that enable reliable and repeatable scaled operations.
Strong leadership experience, including managing and developing engineering and technician teams in a fast-paced, hardware-centric environment.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in DOE, statistical analysis, root-cause troubleshooting, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
Exceptional project management capabilities, including roadmap creation, milestone definition, cross-functional coordination, and on-time delivery of complex technical programs.
Strong communication and documentation skills, with the ability to work closely with R&D, Equipment Engineering, Cell Engineering, Analytical, and Manufacturing to ensure smooth process handoff and rapid iteration cycles.
Deep commitment to safety, with experience developing or enforcing safe operating procedures for battery materials, chemicals, and equipment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Required to wear personal protective equipment when applicable.
Able to pass a respirator fit test and wear a respirator periodically.
Able to work in an office, lab, and manufacturing environment with chemicals, moving mechanical parts, and electrical hazards.

Salary Range

$180,000—$210,000 USD

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Blue Current is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

At-Will Employment & Disclaimer

Employment at Blue Current is at-will. This means that either the employee or Blue Current may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason or no reason, with or without cause, and with or without advance notice, subject to applicable law. This job description does not create an express or implied contract of employment, nor does it alter the at-will nature of the employment relationship. The duties, responsibilities, and qualifications described herein are subject to change at the Company's discretion and do not represent all tasks that may be required of this role.

Sr. Manager, Prototype Scaleup

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