Senior Battery Module & Interconnect Design Engineer - Pivotal

Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.

Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in early 2025.

Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

• Lead the design of battery module/pack for eVTOL aircraft, with an emphasis on high energy density, performance, structural integrity, thermal management, and safety.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive design documentation for battery enclosures, mounting systems, and thermal management solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations, including UN38.3 and DO-160.
• Conduct Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) analyses to optimize designs for performance, manufacturability, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate closely with electrical, thermal, and vehicle integration teams to ensure seamless integration of battery systems into electric vehicles, meeting product requirements and performance targets.
• Design test environments and analyze data to refine designs and enhance performance.
• Lead validation efforts for thermal propagation, mechanical performance, and reliability testing.
• Conduct testing and validation of battery mechanical systems, including environmental testing, durability testing, and crashworthiness testing, both in laboratory settings and on test vehicles.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, promoting a culture of continuous learning and excellence within the team.
• Drive project timelines, manage vendor relationships, and oversee production schedules to ensure on-time delivery.

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in battery module/pack design and development, with a preference for candidates who have worked in the EV, aerospace, or aviation industry.
• In-depth understanding of mechanical design principles and proficiency in various manufacturing processes relevant to electric vehicle battery systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software, such as CATIA, and experience in utilizing FEA tools, preferably ABAQUS/3DX, for structural analysis and optimization.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical abilities, with a track record of effectively resolving complex engineering challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, enabling clear articulation of ideas, technical concepts, and project updates to team members and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership capabilities, including the capacity to lead projects, manage teams, and mentor junior engineers in achieving project objectives and professional development goals.

• Experience with eVTOL or other electric aircraft.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to batteries in aerospace (e.g., FAA, EASA).
• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field.

Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.

Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.

Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.