Senior Technician, Advanced Manufacturing

About the role

Blue Current is the industry leader in the development of silicon solid state batteries. Located in Hayward, California, Blue Current's team works out of its state-of-the-art headquarters and pilot line facility. To learn more, visit bluecurrent.com.

Position Summary

Blue Current is seeking a hands-on Technician to support the production of battery materials and assembly of high-performance battery cells. The ideal candidate has practical experience in technical or manufacturing environments and is comfortable working with precision processes, equipment, and documentation.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Independently perform battery manufacturing tasks such as powder processing, slurry mixing, electrode coating, cell assembly, and formation.
• Operate gloveboxes, roll-to-roll equipment, mixing systems, stackers, welders, and pouch sealers with minimal supervision.
• Conduct intermediate-level materials and cell characterization using tools such as viscometers, rheometers, particle size analyzers, microscopes, or thickness gauges.
• Troubleshoot routine issues with equipment or processes, escalating only complex problems to senior staff.
• Perform cell assembly steps such as stacking, winding, ultrasonic welding, and pouch sealing.

Equipment Operation & Troubleshooting

• Set up and operate equipment according to established SOPs.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of assigned tools.
• Identify and communicate issues, independently perform troubleshooting.
• Identify common sources of process variation and propose improvements to enhance consistency.
• Perform basic root-cause investigations for deviations and collaborate with engineers on corrective actions.
• Support preventative maintenance activities and recognize early signs of equipment degradation.

Documentation & Quality

• Maintain accurate process records, equipment logs, and material traceability.
• Follow and provide feedback on SOPs and work instructions to ensure clarity and accuracy.
• Support quality audits by maintaining organized documentation and process evidence.
• Identify and communicate issues with materials or processes that may impact build quality or timelines.

Safety & Lab Stewardship

• Follow all safety procedures related to chemical handling, glovebox operation, PPE, and dry room environments.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace and lead 5S and general lab upkeep.
• Review and follow SDS guidelines for materials used in daily tasks.
• Manage inventory of consumables and materials, including tracking usage, restocking, and coordinating with purchasing to prevent shortages.

Learning & Collaboration

• Work closely with engineers and lead technicians to execute trials, collect data, and support process development.
• Provide guidance or training to fellow technicians/operators on proper equipment operation and documentation standards for process area.
• Communicate process observations clearly and contribute to team problem-solving discussions.
• Train junior staff on new tools, materials, or processes.
• Collaborate with team members to support daily workflow and production goals.
• Communicate effectively across shifts and with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and smooth execution.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Associate's degree in a technical field, or equivalent hands-on training/experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience in a technical, laboratory, or precision manufacturing environment (e.g., batteries, semiconductors, medical devices, aerospace, automotive).

Skills & Knowledge

• Hands-on experience in at least one of the following areas: Powder mixing or processing, Slurry preparation and mixing, Electrode coating, Cell assembly and packaging.
• Proficiency operating in gloveboxes, dry room or equivalent controlled environments.
• Ability to independently execute routine and moderately complex procedures.
• Troubleshooting capability for equipment and process issues.
• Strong documentation, organization, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Excel, Word, or other data logging tools.
• Commitment to safety, cleanliness, and consistent execution.
• Strong understanding of laboratory procedures, chemical handling, or precision manufacturing tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with battery or electronics fabrication processes is a plus (powder/slurry mixing, coating (roll-to-roll, slot-die or equivalent), assembly, stacking, ultrasonic welding, etc.).
• Exposure to early-stage pilot-line environments.
• Experience with analytical tools (microscopy, thickness gauges, viscometers).
• Experience working in a clean room or chemical laboratory environment.
• Coursework or interest in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields.