Cell Abuse Test Engineer

Insight Global is for a Cell Test Engineer to perform battery cell abuse testing across all programs, including vehicle and energy storage for one of our largest automotive clients in the Bay Area. In this role, you would be responsible for a variety of tests spanning electrical, thermal, and mechanical abuse. You would own the testing end-to-end: planning, execution, and results interpretation.
• Own battery cell abuse testing end-to-end (electrical, thermal, mechanical) across vehicle and energy programs
• Work from early concept through post-production, supporting design, validation, and continuous improvement
• Develop test plans based on risk, timing, and program phase, and coordinate execution with technicians
• Run hands-on testing in the lab to understand cell behavior, test setups, and failure modes
• Perform thermal, electrical, and mechanical testing on battery cells and analyze performance outcomes
• Troubleshoot test rigs and act as the first point of contact for lab/test issues
• Process raw data using MATLAB, Python, or SQL and translate results into clear insights and reports
• Partner with internal teams and suppliers to optimize designs (especially mechanical)
• Improve test efficiency, data quality, and lab processes (fixtures, software, workflows)
• Study variation in results (ex: thermal runaway, short circuit, crush) and drive improvements
• Help develop new test methods and R&D metrics (~30% of role)
• Maintain lab procedures, documentation, and testing standards
This role can pay between $64-$93/hour depending on years of experience and skillset.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.To learn more about how we collect, keep, and process your private information, please review Insight Global's Workforce Privacy Policy: https://insightglobal.com/workforce-privacy-policy/.

• Bachelor’s degree in:
○ Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering
○ OR Chemistry / Materials Science background
• Hands-on battery cell experience (testing or development)
• Experience with thermal testing
• Strong experience in a lab / hardware environment (not simulation-based)
• Hands-on skills: assembly, wiring, instrumentation, troubleshooting
• Experience with design of experiments (DOE)
• Ability to analyze data and draw conclusions from test results
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Experience working cross-functionally and alongside technicians
• Ability to manage multiple tests/programs in a fast-paced environment

• Experience with MATLAB (preferred), Python, or SQL
• Experience with LabVIEW or National Instruments / data acquisition systems
• Background in developing new test methods or R&D metrics
• Familiarity with CAD tools
• Strong statistical analysis background
• Broader experience with electrical or mechanical abuse testing beyond thermal
• Experience working with battery cell suppliers or product development teams

Benefit packages for this role will start on the 1st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.