Principal Cell Design Engineer

Purpose of the Role

Location:

Oxford, UK

Department:
Cell Technology / Cell Design

Line Management:
Yes (4 direct reports)

Reporting To:
Cell Design Manager – Cell Technology / Cell Development

Help Us Power a Sustainable Future

At Agratas
, Tata Group’s global battery business, we’re on a mission to design and manufacture next-generation lithium-ion batteries to accelerate the shift to electric mobility and clean energy storage. We’re building a team of the brightest minds in battery technology – and we’re looking for a Senior Cell Design Engineer to lead innovation in lithium-ion cell development.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Cell Design Engineer
, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the design and development of advanced Li-ion battery cells. You will focus on optimising performance, safety, and scalability by driving innovation in cell architecture, materials selection, and electrochemical performance. You will also lead a small team of engineers and collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Process Engineering, and Manufacturing teams in a fast-paced prototype environment.

• Cell Design & Development:
  Develop and execute test plans to optimise anode, cathode, separator, and electrolyte design
• Align designs with performance, energy density, safety, and lifecycle targets
• Materials Selection:
  Evaluate and select active materials, binders, and electrolytes based on electrochemical properties and scalability
• Act as SME in vendor engagements
• Prototype Scale-Up:
  Transition lab-scale designs to pilot-scale production
• Develop material and assembly specifications; lead cross-functional design reviews
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM):
  Integrate design strategies to enhance large-scale manufacturability, yield, and cost efficiency
• Innovation & Problem Solving:
  Drive continuous improvement and innovation in performance, safety, and cell architecture
• Leadership & Mentorship:
  Lead and mentor a team of engineers and foster strong relationships across technical teams and stakeholders

• Required
  
  Skills & Experience:
  
  PhD (preferred) or advanced degree in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or similar
• Deep understanding of Li-ion cell chemistry, architecture, and electrochemical principles
• Expertise in electrochemical testing techniques: GITT, EIS, HPPC, CV, dQ/dV, etc.
• Proven experience designing and scaling cell prototypes from concept to pilot line
• Strong background in material selection and hands-on characterisation (SEM, XRD, DSC)
• Familiarity with APQP milestones, DFMEA participation, and statistical experimental planning
• Ability to derive and validate cell-level requirements from pack/system level
• Strong analytical thinking and structured problem-solving skills
• Experience in customer-facing technical roles as a subject matter expert

• Desired Specialisations:
  Experience with high-Ni cathodes, silicon anodes, or LFP chemistries
• Proficiency in root cause failure analysis and contingency planning under tight timelines
• Familiarity with PLM systems and design review tools

At Agratas, you ll help develop transformative energy technologies in a culture that values technical excellence, collaboration, and innovation. You’ll enjoy:

• The chance to shape one of the UK’s most exciting clean energy initiatives
• Working alongside world-class experts in a purpose-driven environment
• A commitment to personal and professional development
• An inclusive, mission-led team focused on delivering real impact

Interested in building the batteries of tomorrow?

Apply today or reach out to our recruitment team to find out more.