Test Engineer III

Job description

**Who we are:** Electra is reinventing ironmaking from the ground up with a breakthrough electrochemical technology that produces high purity clean iron and critical co-minerals. With two operating pilots in Boulder and a new demonstration facility underway in Jefferson County, we’re on track to reach commercial scale by the end of the decade. Backed by over $300 million and strategic partnerships with global leaders across mining, steel, and big tech, momentum is on our side. Recognized by Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company and a Next Big Thing in Tech, and named one of TIME’s 100 Climate Leaders, we’re building a company shaping the future of industry. If you’re looking to make an impact and join a team that’s driven, focused, and scaling, we want to hear from you. **What you will do:** Electra is seeking an experienced Test Engineer III to support the development, validation, and continuous improvement of advanced materials, components, and systems. This role is responsible for independently designing and executing reliability testing, evaluating product performance, and applying advanced analytical techniques to improve durability, safety, and reliability across research, development, and pilot operations. Working closely with Engineering, R&D, Process Engineering, Operations, and Quality, this position applies deep technical expertise to solve complex engineering challenges, recommend practical solutions, and contribute to the successful development and commercialization of Electra's technology. **Responsibilities include:** - Own the execution, operation, and continuous improvement of pilot-scale hydrometallurgical and electrochemical systems - Lead troubleshooting for process equipment, instrumentation, and hydrometallurgical operations, implementing corrective actions to improve performance and reliability - Design, execute, and evaluate reliability and validation test plans for materials, components, and systems across a range of environmental and operating conditions - Develop and perform accelerated life testing, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), and other reliability assessments to evaluate product performance and identify improvement opportunities - Analyze complex testing and performance data to identify trends, determine root causes, and recommend design or process improvements - Collaborate with Engineering, R&D, Process Engineering, Operations, and Quality to define measurement requirements, ensure data quality, develop monitoring strategies, interlocks, alarms, and safe operating procedures. - Develop test methods, procedures, and documentation that improve consistency, repeatability, and technical quality - Support root cause investigations and corrective actions by applying sound engineering judgment and advanced analytical techniques - Communicate technical findings and recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders and adapt communication to a variety of technical audiences - Ensure laboratory activities comply with company safety expectations, engineering standards, and applicable quality requirements - Perform other duties as assigned **What we need you to bring to the team:** - Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field - 5+ years of professional experience in reliability engineering, testing, product validation, or a related engineering discipline; or 3+ years with a master's degree - Complete knowledge and understanding of reliability engineering principles, statistical analysis, failure mechanisms, and engineering best practices - Experience with hydrometallurgical processes including leaching, filtration, or solution purification - Demonstrated understanding of chemical process systems, fluid handling, reactors, electrochemical systems, or hydrometallurgical unit operations - Experience designing and executing reliability testing, accelerated life testing, and product validation activities - Demonstrated ability to analyze complex engineering data, evaluate multiple factors, and develop practical, data-driven recommendations - Experience applying structured problem-solving methodologies, root cause analysis, and engineering judgment to resolve complex technical issues - Proficiency with engineering and statistical analysis tools such as JMP, Minitab, LabVIEW, or similar platforms - Familiarity with applicable testing standards such as ASTM, IEC, MIL-STD, or similar - Strong technical writing, documentation, and presentation skills - Demonstrated ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing project needs - Ability to build collaborative relationships across multidisciplinary teams and effectively communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences - Comfortable working in a fast-paced research, development, pilot plant, or manufacturing environment **What we want you to bring to the team:** - Experience supporting electrochemical systems, hydrometallurgical processes, battery materials, critical minerals, or advanced manufacturing - Experience with pilot plant operations, technology scale-up, or industrial process systems - Experience working with industrial or manufacturing data systems including the ability to query, extract, transform, and analyze large datasets from process data repositories - Experience with predictive maintenance, digital twin technologies, or advanced reliability monitoring methods **Compensation:** The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $105,000-$125,000. Compensation will vary based on experience and qualifications, with offers determined by skills, experience, and overall alignment with the role. The top of the salary range is usually reserved for candidates with highly specialized expertise and extensive relevant experience. **At Electra, We Invest in Your Future** At Electra, we invest in the well-being, financial security, and long-term success of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family—both at work and at home. **We are proud to offer:** - **100% Employer-Paid Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance**– Full premium coverage for full-time employees, spouses/domestic partners, and dependents at no cost to you - **Equity** – Share in Electra's success through company equity - **401(k) with 5% Employer Match** – Immediately 100% vested, so every employer contribution is yours once you're eligible - **Health Savings Account (HSA)** – Employer contributions of **$1,800** for individuals and **$3,600** for families - **Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays** – Time to rest, recharge, and focus on what matters most - **12 Weeks of 100% Paid Parental Leave** – Supporting your family during life's biggest moments - **100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance & AD&D** – Coverage equal to **2x your annual salary** - **100% Employer-Paid Disability Insurance** – Income protection when you need it most - **Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)** – Pre-tax savings for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses - **Supplemental Accident & Critical Illness Insurance** – Additional financial protection for unexpected events - **Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)** – Confidential mental health, financial, and wellness resources available to you and your family **If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, reach out to us at [careers@electra.earth](mailto:careers@electra.earth) We’re here to help.**