Purpose of the Role
Sr. Electrode Design Engineer – Cell Design
Location:
Oxford, UK
Department:
Cell Technology / Cell Design
Reports To:
Cell Design Manager – Cell Technology / Cell Development
The Opportunity
Join
Agratas
, Tata Group's global battery business, and help build the next generation of high-performance lithium-ion batteries. As a
Senior Electrode Design Engineer
, you will be responsible for leading the
design, development, and optimization of electrode structures
, enabling innovative and scalable battery solutions.
This role will be central in defining electrode compositions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring designs meet both
electrochemical performance
and
manufacturing processability
targets. You will also guide junior engineers and play a key role in technical strategy and execution within our Oxford-based R&D Centre.
Key Responsibility Areas
Electrode Design & Development
* Lead test plans and DOE execution to optimise electrode performance, processability, and design robustness.
* Finalize electrode compositions aligned with product targets and manufacturing feasibility.
Material Selection & Specification
* Evaluate and down-select electrode components (active materials, binders, conductives, foil) based on performance, cost, and manufacturability.
* Act as a subject matter expert in supplier discussions and validation.
Process Integration & DFM
* Collaborate with process engineers to align electrode designs with manufacturing processes and throughput targets.
* Integrate Design for Manufacturability (DFM) into all development phases.
Innovation & Problem Solving
* Drive continuous innovation in electrode structure, materials, and coating techniques.
* Lead root cause analysis and implement improvements based on electrochemical and mechanical performance data.
Leadership & Collaboration
* Mentor junior engineers and coordinate small technical teams.
* Collaborate closely with R&D, process, and product teams to ensure timely and aligned development milestones.
Documentation & Risk Management
* Support DFMEA/PFMEA development and maintain high standards in technical reporting, specifications, and validation results.
Job Context
What You'll Bring
Technical Expertise
* In-depth knowledge of Li-ion cell design, especially electrode structure and its impact on cell performance and manufacturability.
* Expertise in performance analysis, failure analysis, and electrode testing methods.
Industry & Process Knowledge
* Experience working with APQP milestones and developing material and process specifications.
* Broad knowledge of electrode manufacturing processes from lab-scale to pilot/prototype levels.
Analytical & Communication Skills
* Proficient in data analysis, modelling, statistical design of experiments (DOE), and technical reporting.
* Strong stakeholder communication and cross-functional teamwork.
Leadership Capability
* Experience mentoring or line-managing engineers.
* Proven ability to lead through influence and manage cross-disciplinary challenges.
Qualifications
Education:
* PhD or Master's in Cell Design, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or a related field.
Experience
* Extensive hands-on experience in Li-ion battery electrode development.
* Track record of transitioning designs from R&D to prototype scale, with DFM in mind.
Why Join Agratas?
Agratas is driving the global energy transition by building cutting-edge battery cell technologies. Backed by the Tata Group, we combine the agility of a startup with the strength of a global enterprise. You'll be part of a growing, world-class team at our flagship
Oxford R&D Centre
, contributing to technologies that will power EVs and energy systems of the future.