Laboratory Manager, Cathode Materials 

Redwood Materials is currently recruiting a Laboratory Manager to join our Cathode Materials team to develop the next generation of cathode active materials (CAM). This role is at the center of our activities focused on creating a sustainable circular economy for lithium-ion batteries by transforming recycled materials into cathode materials for new lithium-ion battery production.

As a Laboratory Manager, you will lead and oversee analytical and electrochemical laboratory operations for cathode active materials and other product platforms. This role will also oversee the set-up and operation of our new Centre of Excellence in McCarran, NV that includes state-of-the-art analytical and electrochemical capabilities, and pilot plant facilities to produce cathode active materials. As a member of the Redwood Materials team, you will be at the center of a rapidly growing company driving to become the world’s largest and most sustainable producer of materials for lithium-ion batteries.

Responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Centre of Excellence and providing analytical and electrochemical testing support to Cathode Materials and other Redwood Material’s platforms.
• Responsible for overseeing equipment purchase or repairs, negotiating pricing and generating purchase requisitions, monitoring supply inventory, and sourcing supplies and equipment in a timely fashion.
• Designing the cathode materials technical Centre of Excellence, including analytical and electrochemical capabilities and equipment and ensuring the successful start-up of the laboratory.
• Leading the workflow development and establish sample testing protocols to ensure timely and accurate analysis and characterization of materials.
• Participating in technical discussions with internal and external customers to identify testing requirements and procedures and translate those requirements into results.
• Supervises daily operation of the Cathode R&D laboratory, including overseeing equipment purchase or repairs, negotiating pricing and generating purchase requisitions, monitoring supply inventory, and sourcing supplies and equipment in a timely fashion.
• Leading the workflow development and establish sample testing protocols to ensure timely and accurate analysis and characterization of materials. Responsible for developing applicable laboratory methods for new and existing equipment. Takes lead on evaluating new equipment and new capabilities.
• Participating in technical discussions with internal and external customers to identify testing requirements and procedures and translate those requirements into results.
• Develops lab improvement requirements including needs for new capabilities or planning and justifying new lab space.
• Monitors applicable laboratory equipment including scheduling preventive maintenance and calibrations.
• Point of contact with vendors, suppliers, and other external partners for all applicable laboratory equipment and supply needs.
• Point of contact with construction engineering, mechanical engineering, and other internal partners for all applicable laboratory infrastructure needs.
• Work closely with internal Quality Team members for proper documentation, standardization, and other quality related needs.
• Work closely with Redwood Material’s EHS Team members for proper adherence and continuous improvement of laboratory safety practices and protocols.
• Responsible for the coordination of all regulatory and compliance activities associated with the Cathode R&D laboratory to include RCRA waste. management, applicable OSHA requirements, applicable industrial best practices, and others.
• Participates in Redwood Materials’s lab committee meetings and acts as the Safety Representative for the Cathode R&D laboratory. Ensure that electrochemistry, precursor, and cathode labs adhere to Redwood standards.
• Will orient and train new Cathode R&D staff members on procedures and safety practices.
• Support a culture of continuous improvement looking for improvements in our lab including safety, productivity and quality.
• Support a culture of collaboration and problem solving in a fast paced and dynamic setting.
• Participate in all required training sessions and team meetings and stay up to date with all required training.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in chemistry, analytical chemistry, electrochemistry, physics, chemical engineering, materials science, or similar field.
• Industrial experience in relevant areas such as setting-up and operating analytical and electrochemistry laboratories, overseeing the development of testing methodologies, and/or building small-scale pilot plants.
• Recognized as a technology leader and expert in analytical characterization and/or electrochemistry testing.
• Ability to manage and prioritize activities in a fast-changing environment.
• Track record of building trust within internal teams and with external customers.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively.
• A passion for sustainability and making the world a better place!