Research and Development Engineer, 80-100%, m / f / d

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 Our mission is to replace the outdated heating wire technology with our homogenously heating, paper-thin, and easily shape-customizable heating mats, offering unparalleled versatility and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.

1. Manage the product optimization and industrialization efforts of our fiber-based heating mats.
2. Design and conduct experiments to optimize process parameters, improve product quality and yield, and increase efficiency.
3. Scale up laboratory processes to pilot and production scale, ensuring seamless transition and optimization for commercial manufacturing.
4. Manage quality measurements and analyses.
5. Evaluate and collaborate with external service providers/producers.
6. Develop and maintain technical documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
7. 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.