Research Engineer / Experimental Scientist – Advanced Materials, Batteries & Chemical Processing

Join a high-performing R&D team in developing novel functional materials for applications in batteries (active anode materials), catalysis, additive manufacturing, pigments and beyond. Work from lab-scale inception through to viable scale-up.*** Must have full working rights in Australia ***

We are looking for a creative, hands-on Experimental Scientist or R&D Engineer with prior expertise in battery materials and battery development (primary focus), high-temperature chemical processing, or metal powder production and processing. Prior experience with nanosilicon application in batteries is a major advantage. Prior industrial R&D experience in a safety-first and regulated environment will be deemed highly advantageous.

Kinaltek is a process technology company specialising in production of metallic, alloy and inorganic powders for applications in energy storage (active anode materials), catalysis and advanced manufacturing. We have an established portfolio of intellectual property with multiple ongoing projects in the pipeline, including a joint venture with PCBL (Nanovace) focusing on Si/C anode material development, which this role will be heavily involved in. Our team thrives on curiosity, autonomy, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of breakthrough solutions – while doing so in an environment of ambiguity and uncertainty.

In this full-time, hands-on R&D position, you will play a key role in developing and optimising technologies, processes and products centring on advanced materials, metal powders, and high-temperature chemical processes with heavy emphasis on developing and testing materials for applications in latest Li-ion batteries. Your work will sit at the intersection of physical and inorganic chemistry, materials science, and industrial process innovation—offering the rare chance to translate creative ideas into technologies with commercial and industrial relevance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, conduct, and analyse laboratory and pilot-scale experiments involving high-temperature chemical processing and material synthesis.
• Develop and refine novel processes, advancing them from concept through to potential industrial application.
• Apply industry-standard as well as novel protocols for testing and benchmarking materials for battery applications
• Operate, troubleshoot and improve laboratory-scale and pilot plant equipment both autonomously and in a team.
• Collaborate with a diverse internal team and external partners to accelerate project delivery and innovation.
• Prepare clear technical reports, presentations, and intellectual property documentation.
• Communicate complex technical findings and project recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to an incident-free and proactive safety culture

Essential Requirements:

• A minimum of 7 years (10+ preferred) R&D experience in physical chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or relevant allied fields.
• Tertiary qualification in Engineering or Science (experimental physics, inorganic chemistry, chemical engineering or related areas).
• Strong hands-on experimental skills in materials production and processing, high-temperature reactions, and/or chemical process development.
• Some familiarity with the battery materials industry landscape and testing protocols.
• Prior pilot plant and equipment maintenance experience highly regarded.
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead and deliver complex R&D projects from conception through to execution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage a broad range of collaborators and stakeholders.
• Ability to coach and be coached in a cross-functional team.
• Full work rights in Australia are essential. We are unable to offer skilled visa sponsorship at this point.

The role is on-site, with our facility located in Prestons, NSW (South Western Sydney).What We Offer:

• An immediate start and generous remuneration package commensurate with your experience and the impact of your work.
• A collaborative, entrepreneurial environment that values curiosity, initiative, and innovation.
• The opportunity to work on pioneering technologies that have genuine industrial and commercial potential.

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and explaining why you are the right fit for this role.

For further details, please contact Ben Khabib at ben.khabib@kinaltek.com 

Applications without CV & Cover Letter may not be considered.