At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and optimise high-power battery cells for Formula 1 performance.
- Company: Join GM Performance Power Units, a leader in motorsport innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and a chance to work in a thrilling environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.
- Qualifications: Experience in lithium-ion cell design and a passion for high-performance engineering.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
GM Performance Power Units (GM PPU) is seeking an ES Battery Cell Engineer to drive the development of high-power energy storage solutions for Formula 1. Based in Concord, NC, this role is central to delivering cell designs capable of sustained extreme power output, rapid charge/discharge transients, and controlled degradation over race-critical lifecycles. You will lead the design, validation, and optimization of next-generation lithium-ion cells, pushing the limits of power density and durability under aggressive F1 energy deployment and recovery duty cycles and thermal constraints.
Key Responsibilities
- Define cell-level requirements (power density, pulse capability, thermal limits, aging, safety) aligned to F1 ERS duty cycles and FIA regulations.
- Lead end-to-end cell development from concept through validation, including electrode design trade-offs, format selection, and manufacturability considerations.
- Own cell performance modeling and correlation (electrochemical + thermal), linking test data to system-level ERS performance.
- Plan and execute validation campaigns under representative race conditions (high C-rate, aggressive cycling, thermal transients).
- Drive supplier technical direction and accountability; manage cell design iterations, DVPs, and industrialization readiness.
- Conduct hands-on testing: build, teardown, post-mortem analysis, and advanced diagnostics (HPPC, fast pulse characterization).
- Analyze degradation mechanisms and lifetime under F1 duty profiles; create damage models and define mitigation strategies.
- Lead DFMEA/PFMEA and safety assessments with focus on high-power failure modes and containment strategies.
- Develop and refine test methods, instrumentation, and data pipelines for high-fidelity characterization.
- Scout and mature next-gen chemistries and materials with clear pathways to F1 deployment.
- Generate technical reports, design reviews, and decision frameworks for rapid program execution.
Required Qualifications
- Proven experience in lithium-ion cell design or advanced cell testing, preferably in high-power or motorsport/high performance automotive applications.
- Deep understanding of electrochemistry, cell physics, and degradation under high C-rate and thermal stress.
- Experience with cell modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, PyBaMM) and test correlation.
- Strong background in experimental design (DoE), statistics, and data analysis.
- Hands-on expertise with cell test equipment and diagnostics.
- Experience working with external cell suppliers and driving technical deliverables.
- Familiarity with safety standards, abuse testing, and failure analysis.
- Ability to operate in fast-paced, high-performance engineering environments with tight timelines.
Personal Attributes
- Bias for action and ownership in high-pressure, time-critical programs.
- Clear communicator who can translate cell behavior into system-level impact.
- Curious, data-driven, and willing to challenge assumptions.
- Collaborative mindset with the confidence to push suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Why Join Us
You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of a next-generation Formula 1 power unit. Our culture rewards precision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of performance.
Please note: GM Performance Power Units and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s). Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Formula 1 ES Battery Cell Engineer employer: GM Performance Power Units
At GM Performance Power Units in Concord, NC, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work environment that champions innovation and precision. As an ES Battery Cell Engineer, you will be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in Formula 1, with ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within a diverse team. Our commitment to employee development, coupled with our focus on high-performance engineering, makes us an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the motorsport industry.
Contact Details:
GM Performance Power Units Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Formula 1 ES Battery Cell Engineer
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We think you need these skills to ace Formula 1 ES Battery Cell Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
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Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
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✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
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Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
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