Cell Design Engineer - NMC

Overview

Cell Design Engineer – Li-ion Battery Development

Location:

Oxford, UK

Department:
Cell Technology / Cell Design

Join our growing Cell Technology team as a Senior Cell Design Engineer, leading the development of next‑generation Li-ion battery cells. You’ll drive innovation in cell architecture, materials selection, and electrochemical performance, working closely with R&D and process engineering to take designs from concept to prototype and toward scalable manufacturing.

• Design and optimise Li-ion cells to meet performance, safety, and energy density targets.
• Select and evaluate materials, acting as a subject matter expert with suppliers.
• Support prototype scale-up and create materials/assembly specifications.
• Lead cross-functional design reviews and contribute to DFM for future production.
• Analyse electrochemical data and solve complex performance challenges.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate across engineering and product teams.

• Deep expertise in Li-ion cell chemistry, architecture, and electrochemical principles.
• Strong background in materials science and hands-on characterisation (SEM, XRD, DSC).
• Experience with APQP, DFMEA, and statistical experimental design.
• Proven ability to transition designs from lab to prototype scale.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• PhD in cell design, materials science, electrochemistry, or equivalent experience.

• Deep understanding of Li-ion chemistry, cell architecture, and electrochemical principles.
• Experience deriving and validating requirements from higher-level systems (module, pack, vehicle).
• Proven ability to support customer communication as a cell design SME.

• Familiarity with APQP milestones and DFMEA processes.
• Experience developing specifications for materials and assemblies.
• Skilled in statistical tools for experimental design and analysis.

• Strong background in materials selection and evaluation for energy storage applications.
• Hands-on experience with SEM, XRD, DSC, and other characterisation techniques.
• Expertise in silicon anode materials, high-Ni oxides, or LFP chemistry is highly desirable.

• Proficient in analysing and interpreting electrochemical data (GITT, EIS, HPPC, CV, dQ/dV, etc.).
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis capabilities.

• Direct experience transitioning designs from concept to prototype and supporting manufacturability for scale-up.

• Strong data analysis and modelling skills.
• Ability to develop contingency plans and make sound decisions under tight deadlines.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively across R&D, engineering, and product teams.

• PhD (preferred) or equivalent experience in Cell Design, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated track record of innovation in Li-ion battery development.

• Experience mentoring junior engineers.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to build credible, positive working relationships across diverse teams.

Agratas is building one of the world’s most advanced and sustainable battery businesses. We’re investing in cutting‑edge technology, world‑class facilities, and exceptional people to accelerate the transition to clean energy. Joining us means shaping the future of energy storage, working with industry experts, and contributing to products that will power tomorrow’s mobility and infrastructure.

We offer a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning — where your ideas genuinely influence what comes next.

Agratas is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, and we ensure fair and equitable treatment throughout every stage of the hiring process.