Lead Test and Development Engineer

About the role

Proper Voltage is a company working on next-generation battery technology for robotics, data centers, and defense. They are developing intelligent battery systems that make advanced chemistries work in products they weren't originally designed for. This role involves leading testing and validation for Critical Power, a battery backup platform for critical infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Own testing and validation for Critical Power from cell to rack, and the test program's performance against product and program requirements
• Set test strategy at the system level and drive issues to resolution, from characterization through bring-up
• Define and run cell-, module-, pack-, and rack-level test programs: capacity, rate capability, aging, DCIR, abuse, thermal, and EMC
• Owning the safety and reliability program - thermal runaway, propagation, and abuse behavior validated to the levels stationary backup installations require
• Serve as the escalation point for test-methodology and validation sign-off decisions, partnering with engineering leadership to resolve and deconflict issues
• Design and build test hardware where nothing off-the-shelf fits: fixtures, enclosures, busbars, cooling setups, and one-offs up to rack scale
• Turn test data into clear conclusions and recommendations that shape design, architecture, and generational platform decisions
• Partner with design, systems, and production - and with third-party test houses and certification bodies - to align test scope and results to the product schedule
• Maintain lab standards, calibration, and safety practice for energized cells and rack-level systems, and mentor test engineers and technicians toward greater technical ownership

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, a relevant field, or equivalent experience
• Extensive hands-on experience in battery testing across cells, modules, or packs
• Experience as the technical lead for a testing or validation effort: setting strategy, defining standards, and making the calls others build on
• Experience owning test plans from concept through final report
• Demonstrated fabrication ability across lab and machine shop; be ready to walk us through something you have built
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or comparable tools for data analysis
• Ability to stay organized and triage issues and blockers across a broad test program in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with stationary energy storage, UPS, or backup power systems
• Deep experience in cell and battery system characterization
• CAD knowledge (Creo, SolidWorks, or Fusion 360)
• Familiarity with UL 9540, UL 9540A, UL 1973, IEC 62133, UN 38.3, or comparable standards
• Experience in an early-stage or R&D environment
• Experience with product roadmaps and generational product development

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $130,000 – $170,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
Equity participation as part of total compensation
Comprehensive healthcare benefits (medical, dental, vision)
Paid time off and company holidays