Senior Associate Engineer, Process Quality

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 The Senior Associate Engineer, Process Quality carries out the day-to-day quality work that keeps Blue Current's measurements trustworthy and its processes in control. Working under the direction of senior engineers and the Process Quality manager, this role performs quality testing and inspection, keeps quality records and control charts current, and gathers the evidence that investigations depend on. It is a hands-on role at the bench and on the manufacturing floor, learning the methods and systems that govern quality at Blue Current while taking on steadily more of their execution. Success means quality data that is complete, accurate, and available for the team to make decisions, while continuously improving the company’s understanding of process and product performance. Essential Functions & Responsibilities Performs routine quality control testing and inspection on incoming materials, in-process components, and finished cells according to established test methods and acceptance criteria Collects, enters, and verifies quality data in established systems, checking records for completeness and flagging values that fall outside expected ranges Maintains process control charts for assigned operations, identifies out-of-control signals, and escalates them to the responsible process owner and the Process Quality manager Shares feedback between engineering and quality by observing process execution, identifying gaps between documented and actual practices, and highlighting opportunities to improve safety, reproducibility, or quality. Executes measurement system analysis studies, including Gauge R&R, following established protocols, and documents the results Drafts and revises standard operating procedures (SOP) and work instructions for quality control methods under the direction of senior engineers, and routes them through document control Conducts first-pass investigation of nonconforming material and process deviations, documenting observations and evidence, and contributes findings to root cause analyses led by senior engineers Performs incoming inspection on supplier materials against specification, documents non-conformances, and tracks open supplier quality issues to closure Compiles quality metrics and prepares recurring reports for process owners and the Process Quality team Follows and helps improve laboratory and manufacturing safety practices, including correct use of personal protective equipment and proper handling of materials Other duties as assigned, consistent with the scope and level of this position. Minimum Qualifications Education BS in relevant field, or AS with 2+ years of relevant experience, or 4+ years of relevant experience; relevant fields include Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, with a focus on batteries or electrochemical devices Experience Hands-on experience in a laboratory or manufacturing setting, which may include internship, co-op, or academic research, involving measurement, testing, and documentation of results Experience following written procedures and recording data accurately where the record matters to someone downstream Skills & Knowledge Ability to connect observations from the manufacturing floor to potential quality or process risks and identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Working knowledge of basic statistics as applied to process data, including central tendency, variation, and control limits. Ability to use a spreadsheet or statistical software (e.g., Excel, JMP, Minitab, or R) to summarize, chart, and interpret measurement data Clear written communication sufficient to document observations, record results, and draft procedure text that another person can follow Attention to detail and a demonstrated commitment to data integrity and record traceability Demonstrates technical curiosity by questioning unexpected results and using observations and data to determine if further investigation is needed. Ability to take direction, ask clarifying questions, and escalate problems rather than work around them. Certifications / Licenses N/A Preferred Qualifications Coursework or practical exposure to Lean Six Sigma, statistical process control, or design of experiments Experience in a battery, semiconductor, medical device, aerospace, or automotive manufacturing environment Familiarity with measurement systems analysis concepts such as gauge repeatability and reproducibility Exposure to quality management system elements such as document control, change management, or nonconformance handling Experience working in a dry room, glovebox, or other controlled-environment laboratory Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt or Green Belt Core Values — Minimum Qualifications Safety & Security First For employees, customers, and intellectual property Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment, including adherence to workplace safety protocols, data privacy standards, and confidentiality requirements. Proven ability to identify and appropriately escalate potential risks to personnel, customers, or sensitive information. Trust & Respect Treat everyone with honesty, dignity, and sensitivity. Embrace different perspectives. Be humble. Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and working styles. Track record of maintaining professionalism, integrity, and discretion in all workplace interactions. Ownership & Accountability Take responsibility and action. Set goals and deliver. Don't wait for others. Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, execute, and follow through on responsibilities with minimal supervision. Proven track record of setting measurable goals, meeting deadlines, and taking initiative to resolve challenges proactively. Technical Excellence Always strive for the best solution possible. Demonstrated commitment to quality and continuous improvement in delivering work product, solutions, and outcomes within area of expertise. Ability to evaluate options critically and apply sound judgment to identify the most effective and scalable solution. Learn & Be Curious Think outside the box. Always learning. Demonstrated ability to quickly acquire new skills, tools, or domain knowledge in response to evolving business needs. Proven track record of applying creative or unconventional thinking to solve problems. Be Resourceful Be hungry, frugal, and flexible. Use what you have. Find a way. Demonstrated ability to deliver results in resource-constrained environments by maximizing existing tools, processes, and partnerships. Proven ability to adapt and find effective solutions in ambiguous or rapidly changing situations. Delight Customers Build stronger relationships with internal and external customers. Demonstrated commitment to understanding and exceeding the needs of internal and/or external customers. Track record of building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships