Battery Testing Technician III

Job Summary  

The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise.  PSL’s impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL’s exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise.  

The Energy Technology Department (ETD) is part of PSL and provides subject matter expertise on a space vehicle’s two main energy sources: solar arrays and batteries. In order to lead from the front, ETD studies both existing, emerging, and future energy storage technologies. As a Battery Testing Technician (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III) within ETD, you will be working with an interdisciplinary team performing testing and evaluation of spacecraft battery/cell devices and providing support in the research of battery materials and technology for national security space customers.    

Work Model  

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work. Relocation is not provided for this role.

What You’ll Be Doing  

• You will work with a team of (10-20) battery scientists and test engineers to design, build, and maintain battery test stations to evaluate battery materials and performance. The majority of ETD’s battery testing requires custom-built hardware to subject space vehicle batteries to flight-like environmental and electrical conditions. 

• Set up and perform experiments on batteries and electrical equipment. This includes assembling lab materials, equipment, and chemicals and following a procedure to collect and analyze data using measurement equipment. 

• In addition, you will also assist in the design and construction of new diagnostic tools. 

• Write test procedures and equipment operational procedures to support existing and new lab tests or facilities. 

• Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, including building, repairing, and ensuring the calibration of the metrology equipment as well as maintaining a safe and organized laboratory environment.  

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for a Battery Testing Technician (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III)

• High School Diploma or equivalent minimum of 4 years in a vocational trade school or apprenticeship program is required

• Minimum of (4) years of related industry or research experience is required

• Ability to operate within a laboratory environment and work with laboratory safety protocols is required

• Experience with simple mechanical tools, such as screwdrivers, wire strippers, and crimpers 

• Ability to use electrical test equipment, such as Handheld or Benchtop Digital Multimeters and Benchtop Power Supply is needed

• Competency in use of machine tools such as drill presses, torque wrenches, 3D printers, soldering irons, and other mechanical tools needed in the fabrication of electrical assemblies and test components

• Must be able to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings 

• Ability to analyze design requirements, experimental plans, standard processes, and propose appropriate alternatives  

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.  

How You Can Stand Out  

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:  

• 8 or more years of relevant industry or research experience with High School Diploma or equivalent

• Experience with software control of measurement & test equipment  

• Background with Lithium-ion battery testing/charge control 

• Knowledge in developing electrical schematics and/or printed circuit board layouts 

• Experience with electrical/mechanical CAD