Quality Control Technician

Ascend Elements is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered greenhouse gas emissions. The results are lower cost, better performing batteries, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. This closed-loop process also allows for fewer end-of-life batteries being discarded in landfills. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

Overall Objective: Ensure the accuracy and reliability of quality control testing and analysis, supporting production to meet customer specifications and expectations.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Testing and Analysis:
  • Conduct routine and non-routine laboratory testing for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods.
  • Calibrate and maintain analytical equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Ensure accurate and reliable test results by adhering to strict quality control standards.
  • Store, mix, and retrieve chemicals required for sample preparation and analysis.
  • Manage multiple samples and replicates efficiently during each shift.
• Quality Control and Assurance:
  • Conduct internal audits, including process checks and ISO audits, to ensure compliance with quality standards.
  • Perform final quality checks of finished goods before release.
  • Maintain and review quality assurance programs to ensure continuous improvement in production processes.
  • Develop and implement quality control procedures for testing production materials and products.
• Instrumentation and Equipment Maintenance:
  • Evaluate, develop, and implement new instrumentation and technology to improve testing efficiency and accuracy.
  • Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance.
  • Maintain the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and ensure proper data management and traceability.
  • Operate and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Document and maintain procedures related to sample/data identification, traceability, and status of test results.
  • Maintain controlled documents, legal files, raw instrument data, and other relevant information.
  • Ensure data is properly entered into SAP.
  • Prepare and review final product Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for accuracy and report any discrepancies.
  • Communicate promptly with operations and supervisors regarding off-spec results.
  • Prepare and present regular reports on lab performance, quality metrics, and improvement initiatives.
• Safety and Environmental Compliance:
  • Observe and adhere to all company, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
  • Participate in Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) management processes.
  • Wear task-specific personal protective equipment, including dust masks, air-purifying respirators, safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses/face shields.
  • Report hazards, incidents, and injuries without fear of reprisal and attend relevant EHS orientation programs.
• Continuous Improvement and Best Practices:
  • Promote continuous improvement of the plant’s production processes by facilitating the sharing of best practices throughout laboratories.
  • Provide guidance and training to personnel on new methods, procedures, and instrumentation.
  • Identify opportunities for improving laboratory processes and procedures.
  • Implement changes to enhance lab efficiency and effectiveness using methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma.
• Collaboration with Production Team:
  • Work closely with the production team to ensure proper sample collection and timely testing.
  • Provide support on quality-related issues and assist in implementing corrective actions.
  • Participate in cross-functional teams to address quality issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Training and Development:
  • Train and mentor lab technicians to ensure they are skilled and knowledgeable in lab procedures and quality standards.
  • Foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement within the laboratory team.
• Technical Problem Solving:
  • Solve technical problems related to routine testing, ensuring accurate and efficient operations.
  • Perform troubleshooting on lab equipment to resolve issues and minimize downtime.
• Physical and Work Environment Requirements:
  • Capable of meeting OSHA standards for manual lifting (up to 50lbs).
  • Perform physical activities such as standing, walking, using hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reaching with hands or arms; climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, or crouching as necessary for job activities.
  • Work in various weather conditions and temperatures.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Associate Degree in Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, or Engineering.
• One or more years of experience in an analytical laboratory environment; experience in battery materials is a plus.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Technical training and experience with analytical equipment and chemistry principles.
• Proficiency with analytical equipment such as ICP-OES, SEM, X-Ray Fluorescence, Karl Fischer Titration, Tapped Density, Ion Chromatography, and Particle Size Analysis is a strong plus.
• Familiar with SAP and LIMS
• Understanding of chemical processes, including acid/base reactions and chemical identification.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Desire to be a strong team member.
• Proficiency in maintaining and managing laboratory documentation and data.
• Commitment to good lab practices, safety.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Flexibility to work various hours and shifts as needed.

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Ascend Elements is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.