Team Leader Recycling Unit

Job Title: Team Leader

Location: Belgium (Ninove and Dour)

Department: EONET - Recycling

Job Summary:

The candidate will lead research efforts focused on developing innovative recycling processes for lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, with a particular emphasis on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathodes. This role involves managing a team of researchers and engineers dedicated to designing advanced methods for recovering valuable materials from battery waste, while optimizing efficiency and environmental sustainability. The Team Leader will work across both the Ninove and Dour sites and collaborate with multiple departments to bring these new recycling technologies from concept to commercial scale.

‍Key Responsibilities:

• Guide and manage the R&D team dedicated to battery recycling projects, setting goals, providing mentorship, and ensuring the successful execution of projects.
• Lead the design and development of advanced recycling techniques for lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, with a special focus on LFP-based cathodes.
• Develop project plans, allocate resources, and manage timelines and budgets to ensure timely project completion.
• Oversee lab-scale and pilot-scale research activities, including chemical and mechanical processes for battery disassembly, material extraction, and purification.
• Focus on maximizing the recovery rate of critical materials such as lithium, iron, and phosphate, while reducing environmental impact and costs.
• Work with other departments, including engineering, manufacturing, and environmental compliance, to translate R&D findings into practical and scalable recycling solutions.
• Ensure that all R&D activities comply with safety standards and environmental regulations specific to battery recycling.
• Analyze research data, generate technical reports, and present findings to stakeholders. Recommend process improvements and new technology adoption based on research results.
• Stay informed on industry advancements, emerging recycling technologies, and battery chemistry trends, particularly related to lithium-ion and solid-state batteries.

‍Requirements

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in battery recycling, materials recovery, or battery R&D, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of lithium-ion and solid-state battery chemistries, particularly LFP-based cathodes.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Expertise in battery materials, recycling processes, and chemical extraction techniques.
• Familiarity with lab-scale experimentation, pilot-scale testing, and process scale-up.
• Ability to work with complex data and present findings clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis.
• Experience with process modeling software and data analysis tools.

What We Offer

• Work is primarily conducted in laboratory and pilot-scale facilities, with potential exposure to chemicals, dust, and high temperatures.
• Occasional travel may be required for conferences, technical meetings, or collaboration with industry partners.
• Be part of a company that is at the forefront of the Lithium battery energy storage revolution, contributing to a more sustainable future.
• Avesta is growing rapidly, and we are committed to your personal and professional development. You will have the opportunity to advance in a fast-paced and dynamic industry.
• Enjoy a competitive salary package with performance-based incentives, as well as a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being and work-life balance.
• Join a diverse, highly-skilled team that values innovation, collaboration, and a results-driven approach to business.
• You will benefit from a high level of autonomy, with the flexibility to work remotely and manage your own schedule.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and skilled professional looking to make a significant impact in the field of energy storage solutions, we encourage you to apply.

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