Use advanced engineering concepts and campus objectives to lead and perform the work of an engineering team engaged in a specialized engineering field on a training and / or research program. Regularly work on highly complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors. Exercise independent judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

Serve as the lead engineer in the absence of the principal investigator (PI) for renewable energy, energy storage, electrified transportation and microgrid research projects in the Center for Energy Research. Develop and conduct research programs in the laboratory and in the field where grid-connected integration of energy storage systems will take place. Initiate or support collaboration with research institutes, national labs and private companies. Develop research proposals for federal, state and local funding opportunities in relevant fields.

Provide leading role in building up energy system integration and research capabilities at the Center for Energy Research. Conduct energy storage research in the laboratory and in the field where grid connected testing of energy storage will take place. Design, analyze, and oversee installation and operation of energy storage test equipment. Program test equipment to charge and discharge energy storage battery systems to simulate various energy storage use cases. Collect performance data and analyze results. Drawing on expert knowledge of battery energy storage and electrochemistry, select components to meet project specifications. Provide a lead role in developing test procedures and overseeing all testing of battery energy storage systems, based on expertise and knowledge of electrochemical diagnosis techniques.

Use engineering analysis to evaluate energy storage performance, and ensure final hardware will meet desired objectives for accuracy and repeatability. Perform electrical and physical experiments in a fashion that ensures reliable and valid results are achieved. Use computation tools, for analysis, design, planning, and documentation of experimental work. Maintain equipment including experimental apparatus and machine shop tools. Fulfill the duties of Safety Coordinator for the Energy Storage Innovation Laboratory (ESIL). Create a lab environment conducive for student productivity, professionalism, and safety. Instruct student in proper and safe use of experimental apparatus and machine tools. Provide work direction to junior research staff. Initiate strategic planning. Responsible for development of goals and objectives for major research projects. Make decisions and recommendations that directly affect the project. Ensure that timelines, goals and objectives are met, minimizing critical delays or modifications.

~This position is eligible for a flexible work arrangement, which could include a non-standard work schedule, and/or the ability to work off-site part of the time. The employee shall be available full-time during assigned work hours (specific hours to be discussed with supervisor).

• Advanced knowledge associated with the planning, development, and fabrication of engineering systems. Graduation from college with major work in engineering and five years of engineering experience in the planning, development, and construction of engineering systems, including two years in specialized design work in electrical engineering, electrochemistry, or material science or an equivalent combination of additional education and experience.

• Diverse engineering background with emphasis on Chemical and Electrical systems.

• Substantial experience in the use of precision test equipment.

• Significant experience in design and testing of battery energy storage systems and application of battery energy storage systems.

• Experience in electrochemical diagnosis techniques such as impedance spectroscopy and experience in operating both close batteries and flow batteries.

• Strong creativity and problem-solving abilities to apply principles, practices and procedures within discipline to complete difficult assignments.

• Strong project management skills needed to assume responsibility for accomplishment of research objectives. Advanced experience in implementation of the design process. This includes defining the problem from verbal and written instructions, concept generation, use of engineering fundamentals to evaluate the feasibility, and project planning to meet cost and schedule objectives.

• Advanced communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate with a wide variety of people.

• Ability to organize work with changing priorities, frequent interruptions and minimal supervision.

• Expert ability to evaluate and specify engineering components for purchase, include new types of sensors, actuators, and materials, based upon research and investigation into these components.

• Proven experience in the use machine tools, hand tools, measuring devices, and test equipment. Advanced experience in implementing engineering tests in a fashion that ensures reliable results are achieved.

• Expertise in use of computer software programs to support documentation and analysis of engineering projects.

• Ability to create and read engineering blueprints. Experience in laboratory and machine shop safety procedures.

• Knowledge and experience with testing chemical batteries.

• Ability to design structural racks that will support chemical batteries

• Proven ability to utilize electrical schematics. Proven ability to interface and troubleshoot control systems

• Thorough knowledge of applicable safety standards and practices regarding laboratory procedures, hazardous materials, operation of electrical systems, usage of hand tools, and handling of chemicals.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• The Center for Energy Research (CER) in University of California, San Diego, is committed to actively promoting our Principles of Community and continually advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within all levels of our organization. In line with the goals of UCSD's Strategic Plan for Inclusive Excellence supporting a diverse faculty, staff, and student body and fostering a positive and welcome climate where all are valued, we strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented communities, to apply.

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