Manager, Battery Test & Validation Engineer

• Applications are considered on a rolling basis
• Los Angeles
• On-site
• Yearly salary: $173,000 - $216,000

Job Description

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero-emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES-30 by the end of the decade.

Our headquarters is based in Gothenburg, Sweden and we are now opening up a R&D hub in Los Angeles, which will focus on the advancement of Heart’s hybrid-electric propulsion system and other key technologies.

Your mission

Heart Aerospace is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Manager, Battery Test & Validation Engineering to join our growing and dynamic team. In this role, you will be a key contributor to the development, testing, and optimization of advanced battery cells specifically designed for the demanding requirements of electric aerospace applications. You will leverage your deep understanding of Test & Validation methodologies and approach to drive innovation and ensure the highest levels of performance, safety and reliability.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead and mentor a team of Test & Validation engineers, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and fostering professional growth.
• Develop and implement comprehensive test plans and validation protocols for advanced battery systems.
  
• Oversee electrical, environmental, and mechanical testing of battery cells, modules, and packs.
• Coordinate testing with internal and external resources, including specialized test labs.
• Ensure battery systems meet stringent safety and performance requirements.
• Conduct rigorous safety testing, including thermal runaway, vibration, shock, and environmental testing.
• Manage and document all test results and compliance data. Validate battery performance for optimal energy density, power output, and cycle life.
• Test and validate BMS functions.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and product development teams. Coordinate with certification teams.
• Maintain and manage battery test equipment and facilities. Ensure compliance with safety protocols in the test lab.

You will initially report to the Director of Battery and belong to the Battery team. Your place of work will be at our office located in El Segundo, CA (Los Angeles).

Skills & Requirements

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience in battery testing and validation, preferably within the aerospace, automotive, or other high-reliability industries.
• 3+ years of experience in a technical leadership or management role.
• Deep understanding of battery electrochemistry, performance characteristics, failure mechanisms, and safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries.
• Hands-on experience with battery testing equipment (e.g., cyclers, environmental chambers, safety test equipment) and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, JMP) and statistical methods.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., RTCA DO-311, UN 38.3, IEC standards).

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:

• Extensive experience in battery testing and validation, preferably with lithium-ion batteries.
• Strong understanding of battery technology, including cell chemistry, module design, and pack integration.
• Knowledge of battery management systems (BMS) and control algorithms.
• Experience with aerospace qualification and certification processes.
• Familiarity with high-voltage systems and safety protocols.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with battery modeling and simulation for aerospace applications.
• Passion for electric aviation and sustainable technologies.

Education

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or a related field.