Lead Equipment Planner - Cell Assembly Manufacturing Engineer

We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group’s largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job – it’s a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.

At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive.  You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You’ll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.

Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us!

Primary Responsibilities:

• Perform tasks related to cell assembly manufacturing for battery cell production plants, including notching, stacking, cell assembly processes, leakage test, material transport (conveyor system)
• Define manufacturing strategy for battery cell high-volume production.
• Lead multi-equipment planning from the concept phase through to process implementation in mass production, ensuring a smooth production start.
• Provide expertise on certification and permitting of cell manufacturing equipment in Canada
• Act as a subject matter expert in attending design reviews and FAT (Factory Acceptance Tests), and lead the effort of SAT (Site Acceptance Tests) while working with equipment suppliers for specific process areas
• Supervise the equipment supplier to install and commission the cell manufacturing equipment, and lead the activities of equipment handover to production team
• Plan and manage required post-handover tasks, including process optimization, ergonomic improvements, change request processing, and cost reduction.
• Lead efforts to work with cell manufacturing equipment suppliers on cell assembly related issues in production, and work with the team to assess path forward.
• Lead collaboration with PowerCo SE headquarters in Germany, and other PowerCo SE global factories and partners.
• Lead efforts to interface and exchange with other PowerCo departments including development, process, quality, automation, logistics, digitalization, maintenance, HSE (health safety environment) etc.
• Lead continuous improvement projects related to cell assembly manufacturing equipment
• Present necessary materials, information and data to project team and management
• Investigate and identify root causes of equipment failures and summarize/communicate lessons learned.
• Facilitate interaction with internal and external technical resources to exchange and transfer best practices.
• Develop cell production training plans and train other employees on technical topics.
• Provide technical support to task forces.

What you need for our CELLebration:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in electrical, mechanical, materials, chemical or electrochemical engineering, or a related major.
• PhD degree with 5+ years’/Master’s degree with 8+ years’/ Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years’ experience of working in Li ion battery cell industry, ideally within a global organization.

What else can you bring:

• Direct experience in designing/planning cell assembly equipment and extensive experience in battery cell manufacturing.
• Direct experience on notching, stacking, cell assembly processes, welding, automatic waste collection, vision system, leakage test, conveyor system (four or more areas).
• Proficient in manufacturing feasibility, method plan validation, design principles, measurement process validation, P-FEMA, MES.
• Experience in leading projects and technical topics.
• Ability to follow through and make significant progress in a fast pace, dynamic environment.
• Extensive experience in working in corporate suppliers-customer relationships, strong record of supplier management.
• Experience in initial phase of a battery cell production plant would be considered an asset.
• Working experience with automotive OEMs is an asset.
• Action oriented work style and strong drive of results.
• Integrity and value-driven working style, compliant to rules and regulation.
• Adaptable to international teams with cross-cultural communication skills.
• Ability to travel both within Canada/US and internationally up to ~ 20%.

What to look forward to:

• Attractive Remuneration: We offer a competitive and attractive remuneration that reflect your skills, experience, and contributions.
• Vacation Allowance: We offer our employees competitive paid time off. Plus, you don’t need to take any vacation days from December 24 to December 31.
• Opportunities for development
• Relocation Support
• Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.
• Competitive employer paid benefits and overall compensation package with extended health care, dental, vision and mental health support.
• Pension and Retirement Savings: We contribute the equivalent of 5% to a Registered Pension Plan and matching contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• And much more!