Lead Prototype Technician – Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Department: Product Engineering

Reports To: Director of Product Engineering

Employment Type: Full-Time

About EGI Battery 

EGI Battery is a U.S.-based manufacturer of advanced lithium-ion batteries, focused on delivering NDAA-compliant energy solutions for critical applications. Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, EGI is building a secure, domestic supply chain to support the growing demand for high-performance batteries in drone, eVTOL, and energy storage markets. 

Position Summary

EGI Battery is seeking a Lead Prototype Technician to support the development and manufacture of advanced lithium-ion battery cells. This position serves as a technical leader, and operator, on the prototype production line for manufacturing processes from slurry mixing through finished cell assembly, formation, and testing.

The Lead Prototype Technician will operate production equipment, assist in process development, support engineering builds, train team members, and help drive safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated problem solver with extensive manufacturing experience and a strong understanding of lithium-ion battery processes.

Key Responsibilities

· Lead daily prototype and pilot-line manufacturing activities.

· Operate and support manufacturing equipment throughout the cell production process, including mixing, coating, calendaring, slitting, cell assembly, electrolyte filling, sealing, formation, and testing.

· Support engineering trials, process development activities, and new product introductions.

· Train and mentor technicians and operators on equipment operation, work instructions, and best practices.

· Troubleshoot equipment, process, and quality issues and assist in identifying corrective actions.

· Monitor process performance and provide feedback to Engineering and Operations teams.

· Perform and document in-process inspections, equipment checks, and production records.

· Assist with equipment setup, changeovers, maintenance activities, and process qualifications.

· Promote and maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.

· Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.

· Maintain compliance with company policies, quality standards, and manufacturing procedures.

Required Qualifications

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· Associate degree in a technical field preferred.

· Minimum 5 years of manufacturing experience in lithium-ion batteries, advanced manufacturing, electronics, chemical processing, or a related industry.

· Experience operating and troubleshooting production equipment.

· Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, drawings, and work instructions.

· Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

· Proficiency with basic computer applications and manufacturing data systems.

· Strong communication and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience with lithium-ion battery manufacturing processes.

· Experience supporting prototype, pilot-line, or R&D manufacturing environments.

· Knowledge of pouch-cell assembly and testing processes.

· Experience with quality systems, SPC, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.

· Prior experience training or leading manufacturing personnel.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Strong technical troubleshooting ability.

· Ability to work independently and lead manufacturing activities with minimal supervision.

· Strong organizational and documentation skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment.

· Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to stand, walk, and perform manufacturing activities for extended periods.

· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

· Ability to work in dry-room, laboratory, and manufacturing environments.

· Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Ideal Candidate: A highly skilled lithium-ion battery technician who can independently execute prototype builds, provide technical leadership on the production floor, train team members, support engineering development activities, and help transition new processes from development into scalable manufacturing.

Compensation

· The base salary range for this position is $55,000- $75,000 per year with final compensation determined based on the candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and other relevant factors.

· 100% 401(k) match up to 5% of base salary

· Medical, dental, and vision insurance through BCBS.

· This position is eligible for performance-based bonus and/or equity incentive plans in accordance with EGI Battery’s applicable programs.

Work Authorization and Visa Sponsorship

· Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

· EGI Battery does not provide employment-based visa sponsorship for this position at this current time.