Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Who we are:  

We're transforming one of the world’s oldest industries with cutting-edge technology and an innovative approach. Backed by top-tier investors and recognized by Time as one of the "best Inventions of 2024" and Fast Company as one of 2024's "Next Big Things in Tech", Electra is scaling rapidly and we're looking for bold, driven individuals to help us reshape the future of iron production. If you're ready to make a real impact in a company that's redefining heavy industry for a cleaner, smarter world, we want to hear from you.

What you will do:  

The Senior Manufacturing Engineer applies advanced manufacturing engineering expertise to lead the development, implementation, and optimization of Electrochemical cell manufacturing processes at Electra. This role operates with a high degree of autonomy and judgment, solving complex manufacturing and production readiness challenges as the company transitions from development into demonstration-scale production. 

This role is accountable for translating product and process requirements into robust, scalable manufacturing solutions, including process workflows, production layouts, fixture and tooling strategies, and standardized operating procedures. This position frequently advises cross-functional stakeholders and mentors junior engineers and technicians, while leading internal manufacturing initiatives aligned with company and departmental objectives. 

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the definition, development, and continuous improvement of complex electrochemical cell manufacturing processes to support demonstration plant operations and early production targets 
• Apply in-depth manufacturing and electrochemical process knowledge to resolve multifaceted technical and operational challenges, considering performance, quality, cost, safety, and scalability
• Determine appropriate manufacturing methods, tooling strategies, and process controls for new and evolving production requirements, exercising judgment in the adaptation of complex techniques
• Own manufacturing process workflows, production layouts, and material flows, ensuring alignment with safety, throughput, and operational efficiency objectives
• Design, build, and validate complex fixtures, jigs, and assembly tooling to enable repeatable fabrication, assembly, and inspection
• Drive manufacturing process standardization through the development and maintenance of SOPs, work instructions, and controlled documentation
• Perform and lead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for manufacturing, yield, and quality issues, advising stakeholders on technically complex matters
• Review and influence part and assembly designs through DFM and DFA feedback, guiding Design Engineering toward manufacturable, cost-effective solutions
• Collaborate across disciplines (Design Engineering, Quality, Operations, Supply Chain) to resolve interdependent issues and ensure manufacturing readiness
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, technicians, and machinists; lead internal projects without direct people management responsibility
• Utilize CAD or SolidWorks to develop detailed component, assembly, and tooling designs for in-house and external manufacturing 
• Interface with external vendors and internal partners to support fabrication strategy, quality expectations, and production timelines
• Represents Manufacturing in cross-functional and external technical discussions, advising stakeholders on complex manufacturing topics
• Operate with a safety-first mindset and ensure manufacturing processes comply with all health, safety, and company policies

What we need you to bring to the team:   

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or related field; equivalent combination of related education and experience considered
• 8+ years of related experience (excluding internships, co-ops, and other school projects)
• Demonstrated success leading complex manufacturing process development efforts with minimal supervision 
• Advanced understanding of manufacturing process design, electrochemical systems, and production readiness
• Proven ability to evaluate complex variables, select appropriate methods, and adapt advanced techniques to achieve results
• Strong experience with DFM, DFA, GD&T (ASME Y14.5), and part drawing review
• Proficiency in CAD for complex mechanical, fixture, and tooling design
• Experience developing SOPs, standardized workflows, and scalable manufacturing processes 
• Strong analytical skills and experience leading RCA/CAPA efforts in manufacturing environments
• Effective communicator with the ability to influence without authority and tailor messaging to diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior staff and provide technical leadership
• Comfortable networking and collaborating beyond immediate functional expertise 
• Highly organized, adaptable, and effective in a fast-paced startup environment