Battery Electronics/Electrical Engineer

(With a focus on battery management systems and electronics for Li-ion batteries)

Zen is on a mission to build ultra-long-lifetime batteries with the highest quality and safety for electric vehicles. We are more than just a product company; we are a group of highly driven individuals committed to building technologies that transform the electric vehicle battery market.

Manufacturing world-class batteries is a long journey, and we have some of the best scientists in the world guiding us. Join us…

We are seeking a highly motivated Electronics/Electrical Engineer to join our team. Ideally, This role suits someone passionate about electric vehicles, batteries, and electronics.

The Battery Electronics/Electrical Engineer would be part of the core engineering team, report to the director of engineering operations, and work closely with mechanical engineers, consultants, and leading battery scientists at Dalhousie University to build the next generation of battery packs for light electric vehicles (LEVs).

Dedication to work and attitude is more important than a long list of abbreviations on the CV.You’re highly driven, meticulous, and eager to build world-class products. Startups require agile thinking, hard work and offer a unique opportunity to build something from the ground up and create intellectual property (IP). You will play a very important role in defining the algorithms, firmware, integration, and validation plans for the battery management system (BMS). Your work will have an immediate impact on the battery products we release in the coming years.

●BMS Development: responsible for core know-how of BMS algorithms. Design and test algorithms for run-time BMS logic to derive State-of-Charge, State-of-Health, State-of-Power, and State-of-Energy computations in BMS (Low-voltage - 36V to 72V) for LEVs.

●Implementation of safety protocols, Cell Balancing, Communication Protocols, and Integration of IoT.

●Testing and Validation: Design rapid test iterations, and conduct testing and validation to verify the BMS's functionality, performance, and safety compliance under various operating conditions.

●Battery Integration: Integrate the BMS into the overall battery pack, establishing seamless communication and coordination between the BMS and individual battery cells. System-level understanding and design for manufacturing (DFM) is critical.

●Drive innovation within the team with a strong focus on generating patents, trade secrets, and other intellectual property.

●Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and software developers, to ensure successful integration and functioning of the BMS within the overall system.

Technical Skills you’ll bring:

●Strong electronics and electrical fundamentals.

●Knowledge of BMS Protocols and Communication: Familiarity with communication protocols such as CAN (Controller Area Network), UART, Modbus, or I2C for seamless interaction between BMS components and external systems.

●Knowledge of Battery Chemistries, characteristics of different chemistries (e.g., NMC, LFP, NCA etc.,) and behavior of different battery chemistries is essential for designing efficient and safe BMS. Knowledge of concepts like thermal runaway, passive propagation resistance, etc.

●Programming Skills: Proficiency in programming languages like C/C++, Python, or embedded programming for microcontrollers is necessary for developing BMS control algorithms and software. Exposure to MATLAB/Simulink/LabView.

●DFMEA and PFMEA during the design process, optimizing the BMS layout for ease of assembly and production.

●Prototype Development: Work on prototype PCBs, Raspberry Pi, 3D printing, testing, and iterating designs as necessary to achieve desired performance.

●Technical Documentation and strong communication: Create detailed documentation, including design files, specifications, and assembly instructions, for production and future reference.

●Component selection and vendor development is a major plus.

●BS in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field: A strong educational foundation in engineering is necessary. Hands-on Experience with Battery or BMS Development.

●BS+ at least 4 years of practical experience or

MS + 2 years in the design, development, and implementation of battery management systems, electronics for electric vehicles, energy storage systems or related devices.

●Problem-solving Skills: Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities to diagnose and resolve BMS electronics and battery performance issues.

●Continuous Learning: Willingness to stay updated with the latest developments in battery technology, BMS algorithms, and industry best practices through continuous learning and research.

●Teamwork and Collaboration: Strong teamwork and communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders in developing and integrating BMS solutions.

●Project Management: Ability to manage projects, set priorities, and meet deadlines to deliver BMS projects on time and within budget.

●A base salary would be in the range of 75K CAD, and depending on skill, domain knowledge, and Industrial experience level, a higher wage will be considered.

●As an Electronics engineer at ZEN Energy Inc, you can expect to work in a supportive and dynamic environment that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Here are some key employee's working conditions you can anticipate:

●Innovative Projects: As an Electronics engineer, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects involving advanced battery technologies, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems.

●State-of-the-art Facilities: ZEN Energy Inc provides access to modern laboratories (NRC, NREL, Dalhousie University), testing facilities, and equipment necessary for research, development, and testing of battery management systems.

●Professional Development: The company encourages continuous learning and offers opportunities for professional development, including workshops, training sessions, and conferences.

●Open Communication: Regular team meetings, feedback sessions, and open-door policies foster effective communication and encourage employees to share their ideas and suggestions.

●Involvement in Industry Events: You may be able to represent ZEN Energy Inc at industry events, conferences, and trade shows.

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada

This position is currently for a one-year term with the possibility of an extension, and we strive to retain our talented employees.

Please forward your resume and a cover letter to introduce yourself, with the heading “Electronics /Electrical Engineer” in the subject line of your email to [email protected], or use the LinkedIn Easy Apply feature.

If you chose a career in engineering and technology because you care deeply about making a difference, please reach out. Tell us more about you. Let’s start a conversation!

Zen Energy is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and are excited to look over your application.

ZEN is truly committed to creating an inclusive environment and building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We aim to grow by uplifting everyone who joins us on our journey. We value diversity and recognize that experience comes in many forms, and skills are often transferable. If you feel passionate about the work we do and believe that you have the skills to contribute and thrive in this role, apply!

Zen is a North American-based LEV battery company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Our team of battery scientists and engineers is working to develop the best LEV battery on the market.

We thank all interested parties; however, only those applicants under consideration will be contacted.