East Penn is a stable, essential employer, and has been voted one of the Best Places to Work in PA for 21 years!

At East Penn, our employees are our culture; our employees will always be the heart of the company.  We are a private, family-owned enterprise committed to cultivating an atmosphere that honors the contributions of everyone.  We want our employees to have long-term careers, and many do.  More than 38% of our workforce has over a decade of service.  Our open-door management policy, comprehensive benefits package, employee appreciation and recognition events, and career advancement opportunities are just some of the ways we show our employees how incredibly valued they are.

EOE/VEVRAA

East Penn is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  You will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  

East Penn is currently seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist with expertise in electrochemistry, materials science, or inorganic chemistry to lead the development of next-generation energy storage technologies. You will focus on exploring and characterizing new materials and electrolyte formulations beyond traditional lead-acid systems, including lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and other emerging chemistries, along with driving research initiatives aimed at enhancing battery performance, efficiency, and sustainability.

• Design and conduct experiments to investigate new electrode materials, electrolytes, and cell chemistries.
• Lead and conduct small-scale research projects focused on developing novel battery materials, electrolytes, and manufacturing processes to improve energy density, cycle life, and safety.
• Analyze material properties using advanced characterization tools (XRD, SEM, EDS, TGA, DSC, ICP-OES, etc.).
• Interpret degradation/failure mechanisms and propose mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to translate findings into viable product concepts.
• Design and execute experiments using advanced techniques and instrumentation to analyze and characterize battery components and materials (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including engineers, chemists, and technicians to integrate research findings into product development and manufacturing processes.
• Utilize electrochemical testing equipment to evaluate and optimize battery performance under various conditions and validate performance metrics.
• Investigate and resolve technical challenges related to battery chemistry, degradation mechanisms, and scalability of production processes.
• Stay on top of industry trends, scientific advancements, and regulatory requirements to guide research strategies and project planning.
• Generate technical reports, research publications, and patent applications to communicate findings and protect intellectual property.
• Lead R&D projects on new battery chemistries (e.g., Li-ion, Na-ion)
• Mentor junior staff and supervise small project teams.
• Drive scientific strategy and propose long-term R&D roadmaps.
• Interface with external partners, academia, or government labs.
• Author high-impact patents and peer-reviewed publications.

Experience & Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on battery R&D experience (postdoc or industry).
• Deep understanding of battery materials, interfaces, and cell chemistry.
• Experience with coin/pouch cell fabrication and testing is a plus.
• Strong analytical, data interpretation, and scientific communication skills.

Education/Certification

• PhD or advanced degree in Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Materials Science, or related field preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven track record of conducting impactful research in battery materials, demonstrated through publications, patents, or commercial products.
• Expertise in battery materials characterization techniques, electrochemical testing methodologies, and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of battery cell design, fabrication processes, and manufacturing scale-up considerations.
• Proficiency in using modeling and simulation tools for battery performance prediction preferred.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.
• Previous experience in a research-focused role within the battery manufacturing industry is advantageous.

Work Schedule

• M-F- 7:00am-3:30pm
• Must be able to travel a few times per year

Working conditions

• Climate controlled area & own cubicle
• Regular duties in the plant and a lab environment will be required

Physical requirements

• Must be able to work in a production environment
• Must be able to travel

East Penn offers excellent benefits:

• Competitive compensation
• Group health insurance that includes high quality medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage with a low employee premium
• Retirement Savings Plan with company match and a 3% employer contribution
• 9 paid company holidays, 2 paid personal holidays, and paid vacation days annually
• Employee assistance program
• Fitness Discounts
• Promotional opportunities