Materials Performance Engineer

Cache is a rapidly growing energy storage startup at the forefront of next-generation clean energy innovation, developing a new class of ultra–long-duration storage technology. The company’s approach is built around a novel “solid fuel” that is safe to deploy in a wide range of environments and can be transported using existing infrastructure, delivering the same on-demand reliability as fossil fuels without emissions.

Cache partners with leading industrial companies to help decarbonize energy-intensive operations. In this role, you will contribute to advancing this technology from development to commercial deployment, helping bring a new category of clean, dispatchable energy to market.

We encourage candidates to apply even if they don’t meet every listed qualification.

• Drive performance improvements and cost reductions for a novel “solid fuel,” with the goal of delivering the most economical energy storage solution on the market.
• Contribute to the development of Cache’s next-generation high‑temperature storage materials.
• Design and execute hands‑on experiments, including thermal and mechanical characterization of materials.
• Conduct both accelerated and long‑term testing under relevant operating conditions to validate performance and durability.
• Collaborate within a small, highly driven team, taking on significant ownership and autonomy in your work.

• Innovative, self‑driven mindset with the ability to independently plan, execute, and interpret hands‑on experiments.
• Strong bias for action, with a demonstrated ability to move quickly and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proven experience solving technically complex problems, with deep understanding of microstructure and the ability to relate it to mechanical and thermal properties, particularly in cementitious and/or ceramic systems.
• PhD (or current enrollment) in Civil, Materials, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field, is preferred.
• Energy, Drive, and Speed.
• Superior inter‑personal skills:
• Ability to act as a team player in a cohesive team, constructively seek and provide critique.
• Constant willingness to learn and improve.

Champaign, IL, Onsite. Full‑Time position. 401k;
Health, Vision, and Dental insurance;
Unlimited PTO.

Email resume and cover letter to