Technology Development Sr Operations Manager

Summary

Blue Current is seeking a hands-on and driven Technology Development Sr. Operations Manager to lead day-to-day operations at our cutting-edge battery R&D facility. This role is critical in ensuring smooth execution of cell builds, testing workflows, and continuous process improvements. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, operational rigor, and a passion for quality and efficiency in a fast-paced startup environment. You will work cross-functionally with technical teams to bridge R&D and production, helping accelerate our path to commercialization.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including electrode casting, cell assembly, and electrochemical testing.
• Manage and mentor a team of ~10 technicians and lab support staff, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct brief daily standups (5-10 minutes) with technicians to align on tasks, resolve issues, and ensure smooth execution of daily operations.
• Lead weekly Operations meetings to plan and prioritize casting, cell builds, testing queues, and other critical R&D activities.
• Develop and implement Quality Assurance (QA) protocols in collaboration with R&D and Analytical teams to ensure consistency and data integrity.
• Drive initiatives to improve process yield, efficiency, and throughput across R&D workflows.
• Collaborate closely with the Advanced Manufacturing (AM) team to identify and bridge process differences between R&D and AM production.
• Track and report key operational metrics, proactively identifying bottlenecks and improvement opportunities.
• Support scale-up activities and tech transfer from R&D to pilot-scale and production environments.
• Manage process engineering efforts, including equipment upgrades, process improvements, efficiency optimizations, and continuing improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of leading R&D operations, high tech manufacturing, or process development teams - preferably in the battery, energy storage, or related high-tech industries.
• Proven leadership experience, with a track record of managing technical teams in fast-paced, hands-on lab or pilot environments.
• Demonstrated history of process development/improvement in chemical or materials industries.
• Strong understanding of quality systems and process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, SPC) applied in R&D or manufacturing settings.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate across cross-functional teams and prioritize shifting tasks effectively.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Required to wear personal protective equipment when applicable.
• Able to pass a respirator fit test and wear a respirator periodically.
• Able to work in an office, lab, and manufacturing environment with chemicals, moving mechanical parts, and electrical hazards.

Salary Range - $180,000 - $210,000 USD

Location- Hayward, California

Job Type- Full-time