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Pivotal
Actively hiring
Battery Engineering Technician (contract)
- Workplace
- On-site
- Commitment
- Contract
- Seniority
- Mid-Level
- Salary
- $33 - $41/hr
- Posted
Location
Palo Alto, United States
We are looking for a hands-on Battery Engineering Technician to join our battery team in a fast-paced eVTOL startup environment. You will work closely with battery engineers to build, test, and characterize cells, modules, and packs — from prototype builds through validation. Strong attention to detail, a safety-first mindset, and adaptability are essential.
Responsibilities
- Build and validate battery prototypes from cell through pack level; rework parts and assemblies as needed.
- Set up and execute electrical, thermal, and thermal runaway (TR) tests, including sensor and thermocouple installation on test articles.
- Operate lab equipment: cyclers (Arbin, BioLogic, Chroma), power supplies, ultrasonic/spot welders, hi-pot testers, DMMs, and oscilloscopes.
- Build test fixtures, jigs, enclosures, and harnesses for test stands.
- Document build processes, test data, travelers, and inspection results with strong traceability.
- Handle, store, and dispose of hazardous battery materials per federal, state, and local regulations.
- Maintain a clean, safe lab; collaborate with Engineering and Quality to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement.
Requirements
- 3+ years of hands-on experience with battery cells, modules, or packs in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
- Proficient with electronics test equipment: cyclers, hi-pot testers, DMMs, oscilloscopes, and AC/DC power supplies.
- Experience building fixtures and preparing test samples; strong mechanical aptitude with hand and power tools.
- Familiarity with welding (laser, ultrasonic, or spot) and basic machine shop equipment.
- Strong documentation habits, communication skills, and team-oriented attitude.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Nice to have
- Experience with thermal runaway or abuse testing (including post-burn cleanup in Tyvek suits).
- Experience with high-voltage battery packs and safety protocols.
- Familiarity with DO-160G, DO-311A, or UN 38.3 certification testing.
- Experience in aerospace/regulated environments: ESD controls, traceability, controlled rework.
- PCB assembly, soldering, or 3D printing/CNC experience.
- Experience working safely with hazardous materials.
- Associate’s or technical degree in engineering (desired but not required).
Benefits
- Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.