At qCella, we revolutionize the way products are heated, such as in automotive interiors, for personal heating, and in pain-relieving solutions. As a pioneering hardware startup from ETH Zurich, we are committed to introducing innovative cellulose-based materials for resistive heating applications and beyond. Our mission is to replace the outdated heating wire technology with our homogenously heating, paper-thin, and easily shape-customizable heating mats, offering unparalleled versatility and efficiency. The qCella heating mats are made from our patent-pending cellulose-copper hybrid fibers using a papermaking process.
Tasks
We are seeking a skilled R&D Engineer with a focus on paper or non-woven technology, materials science, chemistry, and/or process engineering to join our dynamic team. As an integral member of our Research and Development team, you will play a crucial role in designing, optimizing, and scaling up processes. You will support the production and development of our fiber-based heating mats.
- Manage the product optimization and industrialization efforts of our fiber-based heating mats.
- Design and conduct experiments to optimize process parameters, improve product quality and yield, and increase efficiency.
- Scale up laboratory processes to pilot and production scale, ensuring seamless transition and optimization for commercial manufacturing.
- Manage quality measurements and analyses.
- Evaluate and collaborate with external service providers/producers.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
- Keep up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements to drive continuous improvement and innovation within the startup.
Requirements
- Master’s degree (3+ years of professional experience preferred) or Bachelor’s degree (with 5+ years of professional experience) in Engineering (Process Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related fields) from a university or a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule).
- Experience in the paper, pulp, non-woven, or related industry is an advantage.
- Hands-on experience with common laboratory techniques, equipment, and analytical instruments.
- Familiarity with laboratory practices and tools specific to the paper and pulp or non-woven industry is a plus.
- A proactive, hands-on approach with perseverance and creativity to drive new ideas to completion.
- Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and flexibility to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment.
- Good oral and written communication skills in English; knowledge of German is an advantage.
Benefits
- Exciting and challenging projects in paper technology, chemistry, materials science, and process engineering focused on product development and upscaling.
- A job with a steep learning curve and a high sense of achievement.
- A high level of personal responsibility and the freedom to shape your own tasks from the start.
- Professional development and growth opportunities in a dynamic startup environment.
- Fair compensation and opportunities for employee stock ownership.
- Flexible work hours.
- Access to company-sponsored fringe benefits (such as gym access, mobile phone subscription, and SBB half-fare travelcard).
Please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in joining qCella.