Ceramics Engineer

About Rondo Energy  

Rondo Energy's mission is to eliminate 15% of global CO2 emissions in 15 years.  

To accomplish this mission, Rondo is deploying low-cost, zero-carbon Rondo Heat Batteries to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy and to significantly decarbonize industrial processes that are commonly thought of as "difficult-to-decarbonize". Our Heat Batteries charge from intermittent renewables to provide high temperature, continuous heat for customers safely, reliably, at an unprecedented 98% efficiency - and at a cost point that is lower than any other method. 

We are looking for an experienced Ceramics Engineer to join our team and drive innovation in testing thermal and heat transfer systems for industrial heat applications at scale. This role will be responsible for all materials science and engineering of refractory, insulating, and cementitious materials at Rondo. 

Join our team, and together we can reduce global CO₂ emissions by 1% in 10 years, and by 15% in 15 years! 

What You Will Do (key responsibilities for this role include but are not limited to): 

• Evaluate refractory and ceramic materials for application in existing or emerging designs used in the Rondo Heat Battery (RHB)
• Create test plans and DOEs for qualification of new materials and/or suppliers
• Write clear and comprehensive specifications and requirements for ceramic and refractory materials for use by engineering and supply chain
• Research and apply new processing techniques to improve the performance and cost-effectiveness of refractory and ceramic components
• Investigate and test the properties of refractory and ceramic materials, including their mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical properties
• Assist to optimize product designs to meet specific performance requirements, such as strength, long-term durability, and thermal resistance
• Collaborate with Technology team (mechanical, electrical, design engineers) to develop and incorporate refractory and ceramic components
• Communicate results and findings to relevant stakeholders, internal and external
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals

What You Will Bring: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience with refractory and ceramic materials
• Experience with precast and pressed refractory and ceramic components, such as bricks, castables, and monolithics
• Experience with cementitious binders and similar products
• Good laboratory practices (GLP) with operating and handling materials involving electromechanical and high temperature applications
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and software for material testing and analysis
• Good understanding of heat transfer principles and thermal systems testing methodologies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in testing and validation

Bonus Points! 

• Experience with refractory and ceramics for temperatures above 1000˚C
• Knowledge of refractory and ceramic manufacturing and formulations
• Experience with accelerated testing of refractory and ceramic materials

This role necessitates being on-site at our Alameda HQ 3-4 days per week. The estimated annual salary range for a candidate in the Bay Area is $140,000 to $170,000 plus equity in an early-stage, rapidly scaling global company. Additionally, you would be eligible for Rondo's excellent benefits listed above. Your level and corresponding compensation package will be determined based on many factors throughout the interview process. For those who would need to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area, a relocation stipend would also be a possible benefit with this role. Please note that some pay bands may have wide ranges of compensation to accommodate candidates' diverse sets of skill levels and experience. 

Rondo Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive workplace where contributions are valued and celebrated, and our employees thrive by being themselves and are inspired to do their best work. We seek applicants of all backgrounds and identities, across race, color, ethnicity, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or parental status, or disability. Applicants will not be discriminated against based on these or other protected categories or social identities.

Rondo is committed to the full inclusion of all applicants. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please let our recruiting team know.

We proactively work to design hiring processes that promote equity and inclusion while mitigating bias.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: Rondo does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Furthermore, Rondo Energy does not pay placement fees for candidates submitted by any agency other than its approved partners.