Space Resources Sr. Electrochemical Research Engineer

This position is part of the Space Systems Development (SSD) business unit. SSD develops next-generation concepts and systems to advance our future of living and working in space sustainably.

In pursuit of this vision, we invite you to join our Space Resources Program in Los Angeles, CA. We believe that to preserve our planet, humanity must expand beyond our limits and venture into space to explore and discover new energy and material resources. We're dedicated to developing and demonstrating In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) technologies for the Moon and beyond. If our mission resonates with you and you are eager to contribute, you could be the perfect addition to our inclusive, open-minded, and forward-thinking team.

As an Electrochemical Research Engineer, you will play a crucial role in all phases of our molten regolith electrolysis development. Your work will include the design of experimental test campaigns, cell prototype design, measurements of electrochemical properties, and electrochemical model development. You will also help to explore new electrochemical extraction processes for feedstocks in space and on Earth with an eye toward commercial viability. This role requires exceptional knowledge of electrochemical principles and a passion for pushing technological boundaries and discovering the unknown.

We work in fast-paced cycles of design, analysis, and Integration to deliver scalable solutions. We're looking for someone who is adaptable, willing to take action, eager to learn, and committed to safety and quality. Your creativity, innovative spirit, and ability to navigate changing requirements are crucial.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in chemical engineering, metallurgy, materials science, or an equivalent technical field.

• Minimum 4 years of industry experience in a relevant field.

• In-depth understanding of electrochemical principles and their application.

• Knowledge of high-temperature electrochemical systems such as molten salt or molten oxide.

• Experience setting up and executing electrochemical experiments with test cells and evaluating cell performance and reaction kinetics using electrochemical techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry.

• Hands-on experience fabricating electrochemical cells.

• Experience modelling electrochemical processes using tools such as MATLAB or Python.

• Ability to work independently to identify and implement technical solutions while working to implement those solutions with a broader team.

• Proven track record of ensuring timely completion of tasks and communicate schedule and budget risks with customers.

• Experience in collaborating with teams and aligning with business objectives.

• Capability to identify improvement opportunities and develop detailed improvement plans.

• Proven ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and contribute to a culture of inclusion.

• Capacity to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using thermodynamic modeling software such as FactSage or Thermo-Calc.

• Familiarity with mining and extractive metallurgy.

• Demonstrated knowledge of chemical reactor design and scaling.

• Familiarity with material characterization tools such as micro-CT, XRD, SEM, XRF.

• Experience in designing and building prototype reactors for commercial applications.

• Experience in the aerospace technology development environment.

• In-depth knowledge of molten oxide electrolysis or molten regolith electrolysis.