Senior Lithium Battery Engineer

Job Description:

Position Summary:

Soleil Power is East Africas first diversified lithium-ion battery production company serving the regions growing EV and ESS markets. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Engineer to help lead our team of engineers and technicians to new heights.

In this crucial role, you will bring your years of lithium battery engineering experience to our growing team and help lead the success of our battery and product development initiatives. Your primary responsibility will be to provide hands-on direction and oversee the design and development of a wide range of lithium-ion battery solutions for our key markets including 2-wheel EV companies, solar EPC’s and mini-grid developers. Experience with high voltage battery systems, battery control architecture and telematics is especially desirable.

Responsibilities:

Lead the engineering team in developing and optimizing lithium-ion battery solutions for stationary energy storage and e-mobility applications.

Create and maintain updated CAD models for batteries under development.

Oversee and contribute to all aspects of battery prototyping and assembly.

Ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations and environmental standards for lithium-ion battery manufacturing.

Create and oversee work plans for engineering staff.

Ensure timely delivery of engineering objectives and product development milestones.

Maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment and ensure equipment is properly maintained.

Support team management functions and career development opportunities for direct reports.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and partners in the lithium-ion battery industry.

Stay up to date on the latest advancements in lithium-ion battery technology and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Technical Knowledge Requirements:

Expert knowledge of lithium-ion battery chemistry and materials.

Expertise in battery pack design and assembly, including mechanical, electrical, and thermal aspects.

Expertise in high voltage battery systems including multiple level of battery control architecture.

Expertise in critically evaluating BMS hardware, firmware and software.

Experience with embedded systems development.

Ability to integrate BMS into IoT applications.

Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for designing battery packs and related components.

Proficiency with battery testing tools and assembly equipment.

Ability to use analytical tools to assess battery pack performance and reliability.

Strong data analytical skills for interpreting test data and optimizing battery performance.

Additional Technical Knowledge Desired:

Battery product certification experience (UN, IEC, UL).

Ability to lead and implement BMS and control systems development with local partners

Ability to support production teams (battery pack assembly and fabrication)

Qualifications:

University degree or equivalent qualification in materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, electrical and computer engineering or a related field.

Minimum 8 years of relevant experience, preferably with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.

Strong project management and product development skills.

Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements for lithium-ion batteries, including safety and environmental regulations.

Proven track record of leading and motivating technical teams in a fluid, fast-paced environment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to adapt and contribute to wide range of functions as the company grows and evolves.

Ability to travel for customer visits and industry conferences.

Ability to obtain a Uganda work permit for foreign nationals.

Fluency in English is required.

Benefits:

Opportunity to be a pioneering engineer in the East African battery sector.

Be a part of a dynamic and growing company in a vibrant market.

Make a real impact on the development of clean energy solutions in Uganda and the wider region.

Competitive benefits and compensation.

Work permit and relocation support for the right candidate.