Automation Engineer

Ion Storage Systems is seeking a full-time Automation Engineer in Beltsville, MD, to support automated manufacturing processes for battery production. Responsibilities include optimizing pilot lines, redesigning tooling, reprogramming systems, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with operations. Candidates should have 2-5 years of automation experience, a relevant degree, and skills in PLCs and robotics. The position is fully in-person and offers opportunities for growth in an inclusive environment.
Automation Engineer Job Description
Ion Storage Systems creates batteries that are safer, lighter, and enable form factors with tighter packing density that enhance system performance. We are backed by leading venture capital firms including Alsop Louie Partners, Clear Creek Investments, VoLo Earth Ventures, and Toyota Ventures and recently closed an oversubscribed Series A funding round in mid-2022 to enable the growth of the team and commercialization of the technology.
We offer an inclusive environment with opportunities for growth and believe that a thriving workspace leads to a thriving company. We hope you will contact us to learn more and to be a part of our diverse, collaborative team!
We are looking to add a full-time Automation Engineer to our team in Beltsville, MD. This position will have a significant role in the development of ION's first pilot line by supporting all automated manufacturing processes, including converting, pick-and-place, and pouch sealing.
Responsibilities:
Optimize the existing pilot line by tuning it for specific material and product configurations.
Redesign tooling and fixtures to enhance performance and adaptability.
Reprogram robots, vision systems, PLCs, and control programs to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues to improve yield and reduce downtime.
Develop and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the optimized systems.
Collaborate with operations to ensure a smooth handoff of the improved systems.
Participate in the design and fabrication of new production lines, contributing to automation and process improvements.
Conduct testing and validation of automation systems to ensure performance meets specifications.
Implement continuous improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and safety in the production process.
Provide training and technical support to operations and maintenance teams on the updated systems.
Required Experience:
2-5 years of direct, hands-on automation or control systems experience.
At least 1 year of experience in industrial automation.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
Required Skills:
Hands-on experience with electromechanical assembly.
Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs, robotics, and vision systems.
Experience with programming languages including Python and JavaScript
Experience in installing and operating electronic pick-and-place machines.
Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks or Creo for designing tooling and fixtures.
Understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
Strong troubleshooting skills with a focus on root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
Ability to develop and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Preferred Skills:
Experience in manufacturing parts in dry rooms or clean rooms.
Knowledge of secondary battery manufacturing, such as lithium-ion.
Experience with high-speed, precision processes in manufacturing automation.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
Enthusiasm for robotics, hacking, making, or related hobbies.
Department: Cell Engineering
Location: Beltsville, MD

This role is fully in person

Reports to: Engineering Manager
Benefits:
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer the following company benefits:
Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
Stock options in an early-stage company
Company and floating holidays
17 days of PTO to start, with increase upon tenure
401k plan with a 4% company match beginning after first paycheck
Wellness allowance of $1k annually
Company Description
Ion Storage Systems Inc., located in Beltsville, MD, is a rapidly growing company commercializing its breakthrough lithium metal battery technology based on discoveries made at the University of Maryland. The company is committed to developing products that will impact everyday life on a global scale. Our technology improves product performance and safety in a variety of applications including, defense and aerospace, consumer electronics, electrified transportation, and renewable energy storage. Our team is made up of innovative, driven & creative individuals who are passionate about their work. The company offers an inclusive environment, growth opportunities and encourages work/life balance.
To all recruitment agencies: Ion Storage Systems, Inc. will not accept agency resumes for this role. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs email, or to any Ion Storage Systems employees or any other company email address. Ion Storage Systems is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Ion Storage Systems, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or Veteran status.

We are unable to offer employer sponsorship for this position.