Lithium is the wonder metal that sits at the heart of the global shift to EVs. Although EV demand is skyrocketing, global lithium supply cannot keep up using traditional extraction methods. The only way the industry will be able to scale lithium supplies by 15 times is by efficiently extracting the element from brine deposits, which contain about three quarters of all known lithium reserves.
Lithios is a technology company based in Cambridge, MA, commercializing a breakthrough electrochemical process called Advanced Lithium Extraction (ALE). ALE uses renewable electricity to make lithium cheaply, safely, and with a lower carbon footprint. Moreover, ALE is more versatile than traditional extraction methods and can unlock huge untapped lithium resources in the US and globally, alleviating a major bottleneck in the global transition to EVs.
We are building a diverse and collaborative company. Our employees put team and mission first, build with humility and compassion, and strive to make the world a better place. We are a high-growth startup backed by world-leading organizations and investors. At Lithios, we wake up every day to do the most fulfilling, impactful work of our lives. Come change the world with us!
Position Overview
Lithios seeks a senior mechanical engineer who will work with the research, development, and engineering team to deliver solutions in the following areas:
designing and continuously improving our next generation electrochemical stacks across the full product lifecycle, from concept to production;
in-house fabrication and testing of early prototypes and translating R&D-scale devices to industrial-scale systems;
producing comprehensive analysis and documentation for stack assemblies and components;
establishing and developing relationships with vendors, suppliers, and manufacturing partners;
This full-time role is hands-on in the laboratory/workshop. Success may require interfacing with suppliers and partners. This role reports to the Director of R&D.
Candidate Qualifications
Bachelor's or Master's in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field or similar relevant experience.
5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering/design. Experience in designing and releasing new products, from concept to production is strongly preferred.
Professional or academic experience with flow battery, electrolyzer, fuel cell, or similar electrochemical system design is strongly preferred. Knowledge of adjacent electrochemical processes (e.g., electrodialysis, electrodeionization, electrodeposition) or industrial chemical processes is a plus.
Demonstrated proficiency in CAD modeling, drawings, and Bill of Materials at the component and assembly level.
Demonstrated proficiency in hands-on prototyping, including various manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, CNC-based equipment, 3D printing).
Strong background in fluid mechanics. Experience with CFD and/or FEA of elastomers for sealing and gasketing is a plus.
Ability to effectively interface with manufacturing partners, suppliers, and vendors. Knowledge of high-volume manufacturing methods and logistics is a plus.
Proficiency with basic circuitry, mechatronics, and control systems is a plus.
The desire to be in a dynamic startup environment with a focus on critical thinking to find impactful solutions to difficult challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Collaborate with the R&D team to design and scaleup our pilot-scale electrochemical extraction systems.
Design, build, and prototype electrochemical stacks to meet target specifications for field operation (e.g.: robust sealing over long timeframes, durability in chemically aggressive environments, easily serviceable).
Prepare and manage detailed CAD models and drawings for electrochemical stack components and assemblies.
Conduct design reviews, develop comprehensive design documentation, and present engineering strategies to key stakeholders.
Work closely with manufacturing partners, vendors, and suppliers to ensure stacks are manufacturable at reasonable costs, sufficient quality, and at the required volumes.
Oversee and manage safe, responsible, and productive usage and maintenance of key in-house manufacturing equipment.
Communicate technical challenges and results across the organization to advance product development.
Mentor and lead junior engineers, including interns/co-ops.
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary.
Equity in the company.
A 401(k) plan with employer matching.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance are 100% covered.
Commuter benefits and public transportation expenses are 100% covered.
20 days of paid time off and 10 days of paid sick time off, in addition to all federal holidays and all days between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Eight weeks of paid parental leave, with the option to extend for an additional four weeks of unpaid leave.
Flexible bereavement leave policy, including time off for the loss of a pet.
Coverage of up to $5,000 in eligible moving expenses*.
Company-supported opportunities in career development as well as the opportunity to be a leader in a rapidly growing organization.
A fun, diverse, and talented team focused on making the biggest impact possible on the lithium industry.
*Eligible moving expenses include moving household goods and personal effects, employee travel and lodging, packing/unpacking services
Closing Statement
Lithios is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We are working to build a team of unique individuals and to create an environment where all backgrounds and experiences are valued. We credit our success to the diverse perspectives our team members bring and do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, nationality, color, sexual orientation, ancestry, religion, gender identity, age, marital status, disability status, or Veteran status.
We know the right candidate may not meet all the criteria listed in this job description. If you believe you are a great candidate for this role and possess relevant skills that are not listed above, please reach out and tell us why you are a good fit!
To apply, send the following to mike@lithios.xyz:
Your resume.
A brief note (in the email body or a cover letter) describing why you are interested in this position and what you would bring to the role.
Come help us extract lithium sustainably to unlock an electric future for the world.