Principal Failure Analysis Engineer (Battery) - Cu Chi (Having Shuttle Bus)

Role Summary

The Principal Engineer for Failure Analysis will be responsible for leading the Failure Analysis team as part of the factory quality organization and serve as the subject matter expert for lithium-ion cell analysis. This pivotal role will be responsible for guiding failure investigations, developing and implementing advanced analytical techniques, and driving continuous improvement in the quality and reliability of our battery products. The Principal Failure Analysis Engineer will utilize a deep understanding of lithium-ion cell chemistry, materials science, and electrical characterization to identify root causes of failures and provide actionable recommendations. This role requires strong leadership capabilities, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and mentor a team of Failure Analysis Engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

- Serve as the primary subject matter expert for failure analysis of lithium-ion cells, providing guidance and expertise to the R&D, Quality, and Manufacturing teams.

- Develop, validate, and implement advanced destructive and non-destructive analytical techniques for lithium-ion cell failure analysis.

- Conduct in-depth failure analysis investigations on cells returned from the field, manufacturing, or internal testing, utilizing techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy (e.g., ICP-OES, ICP-MS), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), and other relevant methods.

- Perform detailed material characterization of cell components (e.g., electrodes, electrolyte, separator) to identify material degradation, contamination, or manufacturing defects.

- Conduct electrical characterization to understand the electrochemical behavior of cells and identify anomalies related to failure mechanisms.

- Utilize industry-standard failure analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, Fishbone diagrams, Fault Tree Analysis) and quality tools (e.g., Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE)) to systematically investigate and resolve issues.

- Prepare comprehensive failure analysis reports, clearly documenting findings, root causes, and corrective and preventative actions.

- Present failure analysis results and recommendations to cross-functional teams and management.

Stay abreast of the latest advancements in lithium-ion battery technology, failure analysis techniques, and industry best practices.

- Contribute to the development and improvement of internal testing protocols and quality standards.

- Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., R&D, Manufacturing, Quality) and external partners to address failure modes and improve product reliability.

- Ensure the proper maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment used for failure analysis.

- Contribute to the training and development of other engineering personnel on failure analysis principles and techniques.

1. Bachelor degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. (Ph.D is a plus)

2. Minimum of 5 years of industry experience in a research and development or failure analysis role within the semiconductor or lithium-ion battery industry.

3. Demonstrated expertise in the application of destructive and non-destructive analytical techniques for material characterization and failure analysis, including but not limited to:

- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS)

X-ray Diffraction (XRD)

- Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy (ICP-OES, ICP-MS)

- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)

- Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

- Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)

4. Strong understanding of lithium-ion battery chemistry, electrochemistry, and failure mechanisms.

5. Can communicate well in English

6. Proficiency in electrical characterization techniques for battery cells.

7. Experience in utilizing industry-standard failure analysis methodologies and quality tools.

8. Proven ability to independently plan, execute, and analyze experimental work.

9. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

10. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.

11. Demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to effectively mentor and guide a team.

12. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.