What are the responsibilities and job description for the Failure Analysis Engineer position at Samsung SDI America Inc?
JOB SUMMARY
This role conducts battery failure investigations to identify root causes using analytical testing and laboratory experiments. The position supports testing, operates lab equipment, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to drive corrective actions. Responsibilities also include technical reporting and maintaining a safe, well-managed lab environment.
ESSENTIAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Failure Analysis Investigations:
- Lead investigations into battery failures, including cell ruptures, thermal runaway events, capacity fade, and other performance issues, using a combination of analytical techniques and testing methodologies.
- Conduct thorough examinations of failed battery cells/modules/packs, including visual inspections, non-destructive testing (NDT), and materials analysis, to identify failure modes and mechanisms
Root Cause Identification:
- Analyze data from failure investigations, including voltage/current profiles, temperature measurements, and environmental conditions, to determine the root causes of battery failures.
- Develop hypotheses and perform root cause analyses to identify contributing factors such as manufacturing defects, design flaws, material degradation, or operational issues.
Testing and Validation:
- Design and execute experiments and tests to validate hypotheses and simulate failure conditions, including accelerated aging tests, thermal cycling tests, and abuse testing (e.g., overcharge, over-discharge).
- Collaborate with internal and external partners, including research institutions and testing laboratories, to conduct specialized tests and analyses as needed.
Laboratory Management:
- Manage laboratory equipment effectively to maintain an environment conducive to accurate analysis and evaluation
- Procure laboratory consumables required for battery analysis and manage the disposal of batteries upon completion of testing.
Failure Mode Documentation and Reporting:
- Document findings from failure analyses, including detailed descriptions of failure modes, root causes, and contributing factors, in comprehensive technical reports.
- Communicate results and recommendations to cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality assurance, and product development, to drive corrective actions and improvements.
REQUIREMENTS
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Understanding of problem-solving and detail-oriented analytical skills, with the ability to think critically and troubleshoot complex issues.
- Detail-oriented in documentation and reporting, ensuring the integrity and reliability of failure analysis results.
- Adaptability to rapidly evolving technologies and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple projects concurrently and prioritizing tasks effectively.
- Ability to perform routine physical activities, including lifting, carrying and moving materials.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Experience in battery failure analysis, reliability engineering, or a related field, with a focus on lithium-ion batteries or similar energy storage systems.
- Expertise in battery technologies and associated systems.
- Methodological knowledge on how to conduct Root Cause Analysis (practical experience is a plus)
- Experience in operating a variety of analytical equipment, such as CT, SEM/EDX, and so on.
- Experience in multicultural working environment.
- Communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts and findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
MINIMUM EDUCATION
Degree Level: Bachelors
Field: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
PREFERRED EDUCATION
Degree Level: Bachelors
Field: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
INTERNAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
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QUALITY ASSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
- Comply with requirements of the Quality Operating System (QOS) in accordance with ISO 9001:2008
- Identify concerns and initiate corrective actions (through verification) relating to product, process and quality systems
- Initiate preventative and continuous improvement actions relating to product, process and quality systems
HEALTH & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
- Follow safe work procedures established by the Company; and follow the OH&S directions of the head of your department or supervisor
- Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety systems
- PPE is required to control exposure to hazards in the workplace. Wear and maintain the PPE as directed, as indicated in a risk assessment, or as required in OH&S procedures
- Use other safety and emergency equipment provided in the workplace as directed or as required in OH&S procedures
- Assist with the preparation of risk assessments
- Before commencing work or research, a risk assessment should be conducted to identify, assess and control the hazards associated with the work or research. This should be conducted in conjunction with other relevant staff, researchers and the supervisor
- Report OH&S problems
- Report workplace hazards to the supervisor as soon as possible after they occur
- Report injury or illness arising from workplace activities using the incident/injury reporting system as soon as possible after the incident
- Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions