About the role
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.
Position Summary
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.
Essential Functions & 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
Minimum Qualifications
Education
- Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Electrochemistry, or a related field
Experience
- 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
Skills & Knowledge
- 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
Preferred Qualifications
- 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
Core Values — Minimum Qualifications
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Safety & Security First For employees, customers, and intellectual property |
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Trust & Respect Treat everyone with honesty, dignity, and sensitivity. Embrace different perspectives. Be humble. |
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Ownership & Accountability Take responsibility and action. Set goals and deliver. Don't wait for others. |
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Technical Excellence Always strive for the best solution possible. |
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Learn & Be Curious Think outside the box. Always learning. |
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Be Resourceful Be hungry, frugal, and flexible. Use what you have. Find a way. |
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Delight Customers Build stronger relationships with internal and external customers. |
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Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
- 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.
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.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.
Aplyr's read
Blue Current is at the forefront of energy innovation, attracting skilled technicians and scientists passionate about renewable energy and advanced battery technologies.
What's promising
- •Strong focus on cutting-edge renewable energy solutions.
- •Recent hiring of specialized roles indicates growth and investment in R&D.
- •Opportunities to work on pioneering energy management technologies.
What to watch
- •Limited public information about financial stability.
- •Potential high-pressure environment due to rapid technological advancements.
- •Niche focus may limit broader industry exposure.
Why Blue Current
- •Specializes in advanced battery technology for energy management.
- •Emphasizes innovation in renewable energy solutions.
- •Recent roles highlight a commitment to scientific and technical expertise.
Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?
About Blue Current
Blue Current is a technology company focused on providing innovative solutions in the energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and energy management.
