Battery Systems Research and Development Engineer

Position Overview

We are searching for Battery Systems Research and Development Engineers to join our Battery Technology Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. The role involves designing, developing, and testing prototype battery systems for high power and high energy electric propulsion underwater vehicles in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

• Design and prototype new modules and packs or improve existing ones for enhanced performance or safety.
• Investigate and evaluate new battery chemistries through literature reviews, external partnerships, and competitive benchmarking.
• Model and simulate battery systems using computation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) to predict performance, thermal behavior, and safety under various conditions.
• Design comprehensive experiments and testing protocols (performance, cycle life, thermal stability, electrical stress, vibration) in a lab environment.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret large data sets to evaluate performance, identify failure modes, and determine root causes of issues.
• Perform safety assessments, conduct DFMEAs, and ensure designs comply with the US Navy Lithium Battery Safety program and standards.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and fabrication teams to integrate battery components into underwater electric vehicles.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, schematics, design documentation, standard operating procedures, and validation plans.

• Contribute to design, development, implementation, and analysis of technical engineering products, systems, and subsystems.
• Investigate applicability of scientific theories and engineering principles to develop and improve engineering systems and identify technical approaches to solve problems and meet customer/grantor needs.
• Apply standard practices and techniques, correlate data, recognize discrepancies, and follow operations through detailed steps.
• Conduct experiments/tests in laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions based on research findings and experiences from related technical areas; plan, design, and supervise experiments or tests.

• Knowledge of high-voltage battery systems.
• Experience working within or leading technical teams of engineers/scientists.
• Understanding of high-voltage battery design concepts.
• Ability to troubleshoot and integrate hardware into larger complex systems.
• Battery state estimation and control algorithms.

• Successful technical publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings.
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher; may be subject to a government background investigation.

For Research and Development Engineer – Senior Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 14+ years of relevant experience, no required certifications.

For Research and Development Engineer – Advanced Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Science, 5+ years of relevant experience, no required certifications.

Fully on-site at State College, PA. Remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

The salary range for this position is $ – $. This range may be impacted by geographic differential. Penn State offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if the position is subject to a background investigation. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, successfully complete background checks, and a pre-employment drug screen is required.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.