Staff Technician

Blue Current, Inc.; Hayward (CA); On-site; USD 51,508 - 58,492; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Hayward, California, is seeking a hands-on R&D Technician to support its solid-state battery development. The role requires 4+ years of experience in technical environments, operating lab equipment, and executing fabrication processes. Responsibilities include improving workflows, troubleshooting, and ensuring lab safety. Candidates should have an associate's degree and strong skills in chemical handling and communication. This position offers a competitive salary range of $37.39–$42.46 per hour.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on experience in a technical, laboratory, or precision manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ownership of processes or equipment, including troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and communicate process data.

Responsibilities

• Execute R&D fabrication processes including mixing, coating, and testing.
• Operate, maintain, and optimize a wide range of lab equipment.
• Lead troubleshooting activities and collaborate with engineering teams.

Skills

Proficiency operating and troubleshooting manufacturing tools

Strong working knowledge of chemical and solvent handling practices

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Education

Associate's degree in a technical field

Tools

Gloveboxes

Mixers

Coaters

Job description

About Blue Current

Blue Current (the "Company") is the industry leader in the development of silicon solid state batteries. Free of flammable liquid electrolytes, Blue Current's fully dry, inherently safe batteries significantly reduce risks to human and environmental health while providing a higher-performance alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Blue Current's silicon-based platform is highly adaptable, enabling a cost-effective solution for both the mobility and stationary storage markets. Blue Current's team works out of its state-of-the-art headquarters and pilot line facility in Hayward, California. To learn more about Blue Current, Inc., visit http://bluecurrent.com.

Position Summary

Blue Current is seeking a hands‑on R&D Technician to support daily operations in its solid‑state battery R&D and prototyping labs. The ideal candidate has practical experience in technical or manufacturing environments and is comfortable working with precision processes, equipment, and documentation. Reporting to the Technology Development Sr. Operations Manager, the Technician will execute fabrication steps, operate equipment, follow established workflows, and contribute to safe and efficient lab operations in a fast‑paced development setting.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Own and execute R&D fabrication processes including slurry mixing, coating, calendering, cutting, stacking, pouch sealing, and testing
• Operate, maintain, and optimize a wide range of equipment (manual and automated), including gloveboxes, coaters, mixers, and diagnostic tools
• Follow and contribute to the development and continuous improvement of work orders, SOPs, and documentation protocols
• Coordinate material preparation, staging, and movement throughout the lab
• Lead troubleshooting activities, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions in collaboration with engineering teams
• Maintain and uphold high standards for lab organization, safety, and compliance, proactively identifying and addressing gaps
• Lead cross‑training efforts and mentor junior technicians across multiple battery fabrication steps
• Communicate effectively across shifts and with cross‑functional teams to ensure alignment and smooth execution
• Collect, analyze, and report process and test data to support R&D decision‑making and process improvements
• Identify and drive process improvements to enhance yield, throughput, and reproducibility in R&D operations
• Other duties as assigned, consistent with the scope and level of this position

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Associate's degree in a technical field, or equivalent hands‑on training/experience

Experience

• 4+ years of hands‑on experience in a technical, laboratory, or precision manufacturing environment (e.g., batteries, semiconductors, medical devices, aerospace, automotive)
• Demonstrated ownership of processes or equipment, including troubleshooting and continuous improvement

Skills & Knowledge

• Proficiency operating and troubleshooting manufacturing tools or laboratory equipment; ability to diagnose issues and implement corrective actions
• Strong working knowledge of chemical and solvent handling practices, including SDS interpretation, labeling, waste streams, and PPE; ability to uphold safety standards
• Ability to collect, analyze, and communicate process or experimental data to support decision‑making
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate across teams
• Ability to follow, evaluate, and improve detailed procedures while maintaining accurate and high‑quality records

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with battery fabrication processes (mixing, coating, stacking, glovebox work) is preferred
• Experience training or mentoring other technicians preferred

Core Values — Minimum Qualifications

Safety & Security First

For employees, customers, and intellectual property

• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment, including adherence to workplace safety protocols, data privacy standards, and confidentiality requirements.
• Proven ability to identify and appropriately escalate potential risks to personnel, customers, or sensitive information.

Trust & Respect

Treat everyone with honesty, dignity, and sensitivity. Embrace different perspectives. Be humble.

• Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and working styles.
• Track record of maintaining professionalism, integrity, and discretion in all workplace interactions.

Ownership & Accountability

Take responsibility and action. Set goals and deliver. Don't wait for others.

• Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize, execute, and follow through on responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Proven track record of setting measurable goals, meeting deadlines, and taking initiative to resolve challenges proactively.

Technical Excellence

Always strive for the best solution possible.

• Demonstrated commitment to quality and continuous improvement in delivering work product, solutions, and outcomes within area of expertise.
• Ability to evaluate options critically and apply sound judgment to identify the most effective and scalable solution.

Learn & Be Curious

Think outside the box. Always learning.

• Demonstrated ability to quickly acquire new skills, tools, or domain knowledge in response to evolving business needs.
• Proven track record of applying creative or unconventional thinking to solve problems.

Be Resourceful

Be hungry, frugal, and flexible. Use what you have. Find a way.

• Demonstrated ability to deliver results in resource‑constrained environments by maximizing existing tools, processes, and partnerships.
• Proven ability to adapt and find effective solutions in ambiguous or rapidly changing situations.

Delight Customers

Build stronger relationships with internal and external customers.

• Demonstrated commitment to understanding and exceeding the needs of internal and/or external customers.
• Track record of building and maintaining strong, trust‑based relationships that drive positive outcomes for all stakeholders.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to perform precise manual tasks while standing at a glovebox for extended periods (up to 8 hours per day)
• Must possess the fine motor skills and hand‑eye coordination required to manipulate tools and materials through integrated gloves/sleeves.
• Ability to maintain a standing or slightly leaned position for long durations, including reaching and extending arms within the glovebox environment.
• Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver equipment or materials weighing up to 25 lbs occasionally
• Work is performed in a standard R&D laboratory environment
• Core hours are adaptable, though increased availability may be required during peak periods.

Salary Range

$37.39–$42.46 USD

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Blue Current is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

At-Will Employment & Disclaimer

Employment at Blue Current is at‑will. This means that either the employee or Blue Current may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason or no reason, with or without cause, and with or without advance notice, subject to applicable law. This job description does not create an express or implied contract of employment, nor does it alter the at‑will nature of the employment relationship. The duties, responsibilities, and qualifications described herein are subject to change at the Company's discretion and do not represent all tasks that may be required of this role.