JOB SUMMARY
As a Lithium-Ion Cell Failure Analysis Engineer, you will be responsible for identifying, analyzing, and resolving failure modes in battery cells. Your focus is to perform systematic failure investigations, determine root causes, and drive corrective and preventive actions across design and manufacturing processes. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to improve product quality, reliability, and yield through deep technical analysis and data-driven insights.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES
1. Failure Analysis Execution: Perform teardown and detailed failure analysis of lithium-ion cells (electrical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical failures). Identify failure modes such as internal short, lithium plating, contamination, weld defects, electrolyte issues, etc. Apply structured FA methodologies (8D, 5 Why, Fishbone, Fault Tree Analysis).
2. Root Cause Identification: Determine root causes using analytical techniques and data correlation (process, test, and field data). Differentiate between design-related, process related, and usage-related failures. Build clear cause-effect relationships to support corrective actions.
3. Advanced Characterization & Diagnostics: Utilize FA tools and techniques such as: Microscopy (OM, SEM), Elemental analysis (EDS), X-ray / CT scanning, Electrochemical analysis (OCV, EIS, dQ/dV). Interpret results to identify failure mechanisms at material and cell level.
4. Corrective & Preventive Actions (CAPA): Work with process, design, and manufacturing teams to implement corrective actions. Validate effectiveness of actions through re-test or verification analysis. Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce recurrence.
5. FA Database & Knowledge Management: Develop and maintain a structured FA database for failure modes, root causes, and lessons learned. Standardize FA procedures and reporting templates for technician usage.
6. Reporting & Communication: Prepare clear and structured FA reports including Problem description, Failure mode, Root cause, Supporting evidence, Recommended actions. Present findings to internal stakeholders and management.
7. Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with: R&D, Manufacturing, Quality. Provide technical guidance on failure risks and mitigation strategies.