Who we are
We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group’s largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job – it’s a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.
At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive. You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You’ll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.
Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us!
Your role and key responsibilities
We are seeking a skilled Process Engineer to develop and implement the Failure mode analysis processes for our cell production line. The successful candidate will lead process engineering activities, troubleshoot, and provide day-to-day technical support for production equipment and processes, offering technical guidance as needed. They will improve process capabilities through the design of experiments (DOE) and an in-depth understanding of the interplay between cell processes and performance metrics. Additionally, the Process Engineer will establish, develop, optimize, and standardize baseline process conditions. They will collaborate with the equipment engineering team to identify needs and define specifications for process innovation. Furthermore, the candidate will identify and quantify process risks, reliability, and trends relating to quality and efficiency.
This position is in-person and located in the charming town of St. Thomas ON.
What you bring to the team
• Lead efforts to collaborate with cell manufacturing equipment engineers on failure mode analysis issues, and work with the team to assess and implement solutions.
• Collaborate with PowerCo headquarters and other global factories and partners.
• Lead the efforts to interface and exchange with other PowerCo departments including development, process, quality, automation, logistics, digitalization, maintenance, HSE, etc.
• Develop and optimize processes for the failure mode analysis stages in F&A production to improve efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, quality, and production, to implement best practices and ensure process stability.
• Work closely with the maintenance team for regular upkeep and improvement of equipment performance.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, variances, and improvement opportunities in F&A production.
• Utilize process improvement methodologies to drive continuous improvement projects aimed at cost reduction and efficiency enhancement.
• Ensure that failure mode analysis processes meet stringent quality requirements for battery cell manufacturing.
• Conduct root cause analysis for defects and non-conformities and implement corrective and preventive measures in coordination with the quality assurance team.
• Work closely with the F&A Manager to align process development activities with broader production goals.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) by collaborating with R&D and production teams in scaling up processes and refining parameters for large-scale production.
• Ensure that all process-related activities adhere to safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies.
• Assist in the transition of F&A manufacturing processes from pilot scale to full-scale production, ensuring process scalability without compromising quality or efficiency.
• Present necessary materials and information to project teams and management.
• Investigate and identify root causes of low yield cases, summarize and communicate lessons learned.
• Facilitate interactions with internal and external technical resources to exchange and transfer best practices.
• Develop standard operating procedures and train production operators on best practices and operational guidelines for failure mode analysis processes.
• Provide technical support to task forces as needed.
What makes you stand out
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in electrical, mechanical, materials, chemical, or electrochemical engineering, or a related major.
• 5+ years of experience in lithium-ion battery design, development, prototyping, or manufacturing, ideally within a global organization.
• Strong understanding of the F&A manufacturing process and the specific challenges related to failure mode analysis.
• Familiarity with data collection and analysis and statistical process control (SPC).
• Proficient in manufacturing feasibility, method plan validation, design principles, measurement process validation, FMEA, MES, and DOE.
• Familiarity with analytical software and programming languages (e.g., JMP, Minitab, MATLAB, Python, etc.).
• Ability to follow through and make significant progress in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience in the initial phase of a battery cell production plant would be considered an asset.
• Working experience with automotive OEMs is an asset.
• Action-oriented work style and strong drive for results.
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification will be a plus.
• Integrity and value-driven working style, compliant with rules and regulations.
• Adaptable to international teams with cross-cultural communication skills.
• Experience in process development, optimization, and scale-up from pilot to full production is a plus.
• Willingness to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of safety standards and environmental regulations related to chemical processes, battery manufacturing, and high-tech production environments.
What to look forward to
• Attractive Remuneration: The expected competitive compensation range for this position is $98,160 - $147,250 CAD, which includes base pay and target amount of short term incentive plan.
• In addition we offer competitive benefits: our program is flexible to allow you to make the selections and get the coverage you need.
• Pension and Retirement Savings: We contribute to a Registered Pension Plan and matching contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• Employee Assistance Plan: We offer an Employee Assistance Plan which can support you in mental health, physical wellness and overall wellbeing.
• Vacation Allowance: We offer our employees competitive paid time off. Plus, you don’t need to take any vacation days from December 24 to December 31.
• Opportunities for development.
• Relocation Support.
• Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.
We are committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. Our compensation is determined based on a combination of factors including but not limited too relevant years of experience, education, and alignment with the responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job description.
This posting is for a currently vacant role.
We believe that the best results are created in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Therefore, all qualified applications will be considered for employment regardless of age, race, religion, gender (identity), sexual orientation, national origin or disability.
PowerCo Canada Inc. is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities including during the application process. If you require an accommodation because of a disability, we will work with you to determine what reasonable accommodation may be available to meet your needs whether it be as an applicant or an employee. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance. If you are selected for an interview and require an accommodation, you are encouraged to advise the Recruiter who will consult with you to determine an appropriate and reasonable accommodation.
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