Battery Cell Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Fluence (Nasdaq: FLNC)is a global market leader delivering intelligent energy storage and optimization software for renewables and storage. Our solutions and operational services are helping to create a more resilient grid and unlock the full potential of renewable portfolios. With gigawatts of successful implementations across nearly 50 markets, we are transforming the way we power our world for a more sustainable future. For more information, please visitfluenceenergy.com.

Job Description:

Role Overview

As part of the Global Supplier Quality team, the Senior Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE) is tasked with managing the quality and reliability of Battery and BESS equipment and fostering ongoing improvement to meet Fluence's standards. This role will conduct supplier qualification audits, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and contribute to new product development and launch activities. The SQE collaborates closely with engineering, procurement, and operations teams to make sure that supplier quality performance satisfies Fluence's requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead supplier qualification, audit processes, and risk assessments in accordance with VDA 6.3, ISO 9001, and IATF 16949 frameworks.
• Review and approve PPAP documentation for BESS components, including DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, Dimensional Results, Process Studies, Laboratory Certifications, and Part Submission Warrants (PSW).
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by collaborating with Engineering on DFMEA and design reviews for inverters, transformers, and battery systems.
• Ensure supplier readiness for pilot builds, production ramp-up, and site deployments.
• Validate First Article Inspections (FAI) and monitor the resolution of outstanding issues prior to Start of Production (SOP).
• Drive corrective actions (8D, RCCA) for supplier Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), particularly those involving safety-critical failures; monitor supplier KPIs such as DPPM, NCR aging, CAPA effectiveness, and On-Time Delivery using Salesforce dashboards.
• Ensure suppliers comply with grid standards and regulatory requirements, including UL, IEC, CE, IEEE, NFPA, REACH, and RoHS.
• Verify reliability and environmental testing (vibration, thermal cycling, humidity, salt spray) is conducted in alignment with BESS operating conditions.
• Support suppliers in continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) to enhance yield and reduce field-related issues.
• Collaborate with Service teams to facilitate effective feedback loops from field failures to supplier process improvements.
• Manage documentation and change control, ensuring timely submission of PPAPs, PCNs, and audit evidence.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 40%.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of Supplier Quality or Quality Engineering experience in electrical equipment, power electronics, or energy storage.
• Experience with Batteries and BESS equipment, with knowledge of battery cell and module manufacturing and operational performance.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, 8D, CAPA.
• Demonstrated experience in NPI supplier engagement (prototype to ramp-up).
• Knowledge of grid compliance standards (UL 9540A, IEEE 1547).
• Strong background in reliability and environmental validation testing.
• Experience with VDA 6.3 auditing and/or IATF 16949 preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent is a plus.
• Excellent communication and ability to influence global suppliers across Americas, EMEA, APAC.

Additional Skills

• Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) or a similar certification.
• Expertise in supplier risk management and capability assessments within the energy storage or electrical industry.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and IATF 16949 quality management systems, especially within battery or energy storage manufacturing.
• Experience with global supplier performance in regions like Asia and Europe, ensuring consistent quality across various locations.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple suppliers and projects across global regions.

Our Culture

At Fluence, our culture is the foundation that drives our ambitious growth strategy and fuels our mission to transform the future of energy. Our core cultural pillars empower us to innovate, collaborate, and lead with purpose, ensuring we continue to deliver unparalleled value to our customers and the world.

Unleash Voices

We believe every voice matters. We encourage openness, active listening, and decisive action to create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our success. We foster an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and valued, driving innovation and progress.

Customer Fluent

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We're committed to delivering exceptional value that exceeds expectations by understanding our customers' needs and adapting swiftly to meet them. Our deep focus on customer satisfaction drives us to continuously improve and innovate.

Infinite Impact

We are committed to creating the impossible. We push boundaries to deliver sustainable, game-changing solutions that shape a brighter, more energy-efficient future for all. Our team is passionate about making a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come.

All In

We are all in for growth. Our teams are relentlessly focused on identifying and seizing opportunities that propel us forward. We embrace an ownership mindset, pushing ourselves and each other to accelerate progress and create lasting success.

Equal Opportunity Employer
At Fluence, we believe great teams are built on a collaborative and connected culture. We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Work Authorization
To join our team, you'll need to be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout your employment, without the need for employer sponsorship. Please note that Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position.