Overview

Purpose of the Role: Principal Cell Design Engineer – Cell Design. Location: Oxford, UK. Department: Cell Technology / Cell Design. Line Management: Yes (4 direct reports). Reporting To: Cell Design Manager – Cell Technology / Cell Development.

Help Us Power a Sustainable Future. At Agratas, Tata Group’s global battery business, we’re on a mission to design and manufacture next-generation lithium-ion batteries to accelerate the shift to electric mobility and clean energy storage. We’re building a team of the brightest minds in battery technology – and we’re looking for a Senior Cell Design Engineer to lead innovation in lithium-ion cell development.

The Opportunity: As a Senior Cell Design Engineer, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the design and development of advanced Li-ion battery cells. You will focus on optimising performance, safety, and scalability by driving innovation in cell architecture, materials selection, and electrochemical performance. You will also lead a small team of engineers and collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Process Engineering, and Manufacturing teams in a fast-paced prototype environment.

Responsibilities

• Cell Design & Development: Develop and execute test plans to optimise anode, cathode, separator, and electrolyte design. Align designs with performance, energy density, safety, and lifecycle targets.
• Materials Selection: Evaluate and select active materials, binders, and electrolytes based on electrochemical properties and scalability. Act as SME in vendor engagements.
• Prototype Scale-Up: Transition lab-scale designs to pilot-scale production. Develop material and assembly specifications; lead cross-functional design reviews.
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM): Integrate design strategies to enhance large-scale manufacturability, yield, and cost efficiency.
• Innovation & Problem Solving: Drive continuous improvement and innovation in performance, safety, and cell architecture.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Lead and mentor a team of four engineers; foster strong relationships across technical teams and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• PhD (preferred) or advanced degree in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or similar.
• Deep understanding of Li-ion cell chemistry, architecture, and electrochemical principles.
• Expertise in electrochemical testing techniques: GITT, EIS, HPPC, CV, dQ/dV, etc.
• Proven experience designing and scaling cell prototypes from concept to pilot line.
• Strong background in material selection and hands-on characterisation (SEM, XRD, DSC).
• Familiarity with APQP milestones, DFMEA participation, and statistical experimental planning.
• Ability to derive and validate cell-level requirements from pack/system level.
• Strong analytical thinking and structured problem-solving skills.
• Experience in customer-facing technical roles as a subject matter expert.

Desi red Specialisations

• Experience with high-Ni cathodes, silicon anodes, or LFP chemistries.
• Proficiency in root cause failure analysis and contingency planning under tight timelines.
• Familiarity with PLM systems and design review tools.

Why Agratas?

At Agratas, you’ll help develop transformative energy technologies in a culture that values technical excellence, collaboration, and innovation. You’ll enjoy the chance to shape one of the UK’s most exciting clean energy initiatives, work alongside world-class experts in a purpose-driven environment, a commitment to personal and professional development, and an inclusive, mission-led team focused on delivering real impact. Interested in building the batteries of tomorrow? Apply today or reach out to our recruitment team to find out more.

Job Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
• Industries: Renewable Energy Equipment Manufacturing