Paper Engineer, 80-100%, m/f/d

At qCella, we revolutionize the way products are heated, such as in automotive interiors, for personal heating, and in pain-relieving solutions. As a pioneering hardware startup from ETH Zurich, we are committed to introducing innovative cellulose-based materials for resistive heating applications and beyond. Our mission is to replace the outdated heating wire technology with our homogenously heating, paper-thin, and easily shape-customizable heating mats, offering unparalleled versatility and efficiency. The qCella heating mats are made from our patent-pending cellulose-copper hybrid fibers using a papermaking process.

We are seeking a skilled R&D Engineer with a focus on paper technology to join our dynamic team. As an integral member of our Research and Development team, you will play a crucial role in designing, optimizing, and scaling up processes. You will further support the production and development of our fiber-based heating mats.

• Manage the product optimization and industrialization efforts of our fiber-based heating mats

• - Design and conduct experiments to optimize process parameters, improve product quality and yield, and increase efficiency
• - Scale up laboratory processes to pilot and production scale, ensuring seamless transition and optimization for commercial manufacturing
• - Manage quality measurements and analyses

• - Evaluation of and collaboration with external service providers/producers

• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
• Keep up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies and regulatory requirements to drive continuous improvement and innovation within the startup

• Technical background with a degree in Paper Technology/Paper Engineering, related fields (e.g., Biomaterials Engineering, Process Engineering, and Natural Materials Technology, specialization in Biofibers), or a degree in Process Engineering/Process Technology/Engineering Sciences with professional experience in the paper industry/research
• Professional experience (2+ years) in the field of Paper Technology (research or industry) is an advantage
• Practical experience with laboratory techniques, equipment, and analytical instruments commonly used in paper research and development
• High level of perseverance, practical approach to challenges as well as a lot of creativity and enthusiasm for realizing new ideas
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail and the flexibility to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced start-up environment
• Good oral and written communication skills in English, good knowledge of German is an advantage

• Exciting and challenging projects in paper technology, chemistry, materials science, and process engineering with a focus on product development and industrialization
• A job with a steep learning curve and a high sense of achievement
• A high level of personal responsibility and freedom to shape your own tasks from day one
• Professional development and growth opportunities in a dynamic startup environment
• Fair compensation and opportunities for employee stock ownership
• Flexible work hours
• Access to company-sponsored fringe benefits (access to a sport center with gym and classes, mobile phone subscription and SBB half fare travelcard)

If you would like to become part of our team, we look forward to receiving your application with a letter of motivation explaining why you would like to become part of qCella and your CV.