Battery Disassembly Technician
Redwood Materials · Carson City, NV · 3 wk ago
On-siteEngineeringFull-time
About the Role
Redwood Materials is localizing a global battery supply chain that seamlessly integrates recovery, reuse, and recycling — keeping critical minerals in circulation and driving the energy transition. As a Battery Disassembly Technician, you will perform safe, efficient, and high-quality disassembly of EV battery packs and modules within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This position requires strict adherence to high-voltage safety protocols, standardized work instructions, and continuous process improvement.
Responsibilities
- EV Battery Pack & Module Disassembly
- Performs controlled disassembly of EV and stationary storage battery packs, modules, and subcomponents in accordance with established work instructions and safety procedures.
- Safely isolates, and when deemed necessary, de-energizes and verifies absence of voltage prior to handling high-voltage systems.
- Disassembles battery systems down to module and component level, including removal of BMS components, wiring harnesses, busbars, cooling systems, and structural elements.
- Identifies, sorts, and routes components for reuse, recycling, or disposal in alignment with production and environmental standards.
- Handles lithium-ion battery materials, including damaged or degraded units, using approved containment and safety methods.
- High Voltage Safety & Material Handling
- Strictly follows all high-voltage safety protocols, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and PPE requirements when working with energized or potentially energized systems.
- Utilizes appropriate insulated tools and electrical testing equipment (e.g., multimeters) to verify system status.
- Safely transports and stores battery packs, modules, and hazardous materials using approved material handling equipment.
- Responds to thermal, electrical, or chemical hazards in accordance with emergency procedures and EHS guidelines.
- Production Operations & Process Flow
- Executes standardized work in a high-throughput production environment, meeting or exceeding daily and hourly disassembly targets.
- Maintains workflow efficiency by adhering to takt time, minimizing bottlenecks, and supporting continuous flow operations.
- Tracks and documents production output, material disposition, and process data accurately within required systems (e.g., Excel, in-house tracking).
- Identifies process inefficiencies and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives to optimize safety, quality, and throughput.
- Tooling & Technical Skills
- Utilizes a range of hand tools, power tools, and electrical diagnostic equipment in a safe and effective manner.
- Performs basic electrical verification and troubleshooting as needed during disassembly operations.
- Maintains tools and equipment in proper working conditions and reports any deficiencies.
- Cross-Functional Support & Field Operations
- Collaborates with Manufacturing, Engineering, EHS, and Maintenance teams to improve disassembly processes and safety controls.
- Works with internal and external teams to safely process large-scale energy storage systems in non-production environments.
- Supports field operations as required (up to 10% travel) for battery system decommissioning, including on-site disassembly and material recovery.
- Rigging, Lifting & Heavy Material Handling
- Performs rigging and controlled lifting of large-format EV battery packs and energy storage systems using approved lifting devices and techniques.
- Operates a variety of material handling equipment, including forklifts (sit-down, stand-up, pallet jacks), hoists, cranes, and other lifting apparatus to safely move high-voltage assemblies.
- Inspects rigging equipment (slings, chains, shackles, lifting fixtures) prior to use and ensures compliance with established safety standards and load ratings.
- Executes lifts in accordance with defined rigging plans, center-of-gravity considerations, and facility safety procedures to prevent load shift or damage.
- Coordinates with team members during lifts to ensure safe positioning, communication, and control of suspended loads.
- General Manufacturing Expectations
- Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment in alignment with 5S standards.
- Operates material handling equipment and mechanical lifts (training provided).
- Ensures shift readiness through proper workstation setup, organization, and handoff communication.
- Performs repetitive lifting (30-50 lbs) and supports ergonomic and 5S improvement initiatives.
Requirements
- Must meet all requirements for use of a full-face respirator, including medical clearance and fit testing, in accordance with OSHA and company standards.
- Demonstrates working knowledge of mechanical fastening systems, electrical connections, and component-level disassembly techniques.
- Prior rigging and heavy material handling experience is strongly preferred; however, training and certification will be provided for candidates with foundational mechanical aptitude.
- Must be able to participate in high-voltage training and certifications.
- Position includes additional internal and external trainings such as LOTO, Lifting/Rigging, and High-Voltage Battery Basics.
Schedule
- A Shift: 6:00 am - 6:00 pm Sunday - Tuesday (every other Wednesday)
- C Shift: 6:00 am - 6:00 pm Thursday - Saturday (every other Wednesday)
Physical Requirements
- Stand and perform physical tasks for the majority of a 12-hour shift in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Perform repetitive physical tasks, including lifting 30–50 lbs and standing for extended periods (up to 12-hour shifts).
- Adapt to dynamic work conditions, including indoor and outdoor environments and varying temperatures.