Position: Fuel Cell Technician
Department: Manufacturing Engineering
Reporting To: AMPP and Fuel Cell Operations Manager
Job Location:
LIFT ALMMII Headquarters
1400 Rosa Parks Blvd
Detroit, MI 48216
Scope of Work & Purpose:
We are seeking a Technician to support the production of bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells. The successful candidate will be responsible for following & maintaining all elements of the production schedule, routine maintenance of the equipment, and supporting occasional prototyping activities. This role requires a commitment to maintaining high safety standards in a hazardous environment. The Fuel Cell Technician will be a member of the LIFT Manufacturing Engineering team in a hands-on environment to support delivery against key technical programs and objectives, leveraging a variety of traditional and advanced manufacturing tools and technologies.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES
Production and Operation:
- Execute production schedules to meet internal and external customer demands while maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.
- Operate advanced manufacturing equipment used in producing fuel cell bipolar plates including forming presses, shears, laser cutting, laser welding, laser marking, sealant application, and inspection systems.
- Support tracking of inventory levels for raw materials and finished goods through the manufacturing execution system.
- Package plates for storage and shipping.
- Support any prototyping activities that may come through the line.
Maintenance:
- Perform routine and preventative maintenance activities to ensure safety, quality, and reduce downtime.
Safety, 5S, and Compliance:
- Adhere to safety protocols to minimize risks associated with operating heavy machinery.
- Follow procedures for sorting, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain to ensure a safe and organized work environment.
- Participate in regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to safety regulations.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:
- Education: An associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, materials science, or a related field is advantageous but not required.
- Experience: Candidates should have 2-5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment. Experience in the fuel cell industry is highly beneficial, but not required.
- Technical Knowledge: Technical expertise in stamping press operations, laser welding, or leak testing is desirable. Candidates would benefit from familiarity with CAD or lean manufacturing.
- Safety and Compliance: A thorough understanding of safety protocols and regulatory compliance related to heavy machinery operations.
- Communication and Problem-Solving: Strong communication skills are vital for success in this role. Candidates should also possess excellent problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot issues and implement effective solutions in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Adaptability and Resilience: The manufacturing industry can be subject to fluctuations in demand, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. A good candidate should be adaptable and resilient, capable of managing change to maintain competitiveness and sustainability.
About LIFT:
LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII), is a nonprofit, public-private partnership, national advanced manufacturing innovation institute. As the national advanced materials manufacturing innovation institute, LIFT is an accelerator convening and connecting government, industry and academia in the fields of advanced materials, manufacturing processes, systems engineering and talent development to enhance America’s manufacturing competitiveness, national economy and national security.
