OverviewAt PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.
The Energy and Environment Directorate delivers science and technology solutions for the nation’s biggest energy and environmental challenges. Our more than 1,700 staff support the Department of Energy (DOE), delivering on key DOE mission areas including: modernizing our nation’s power grid to maintain a reliable, affordable, secure, and resilient electricity delivery infrastructure; research, development, validation, and effective utilization of renewable energy and efficiency technologies that improve the affordability, reliability, resiliency, and security of the American energy system; and resolving complex issues in nuclear science, energy, and environmental management.
The Energy Processes and Materials Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, creates and delivers real world solutions that support the Department of Energy’s goals for national energy security. We deliver new technologies that connect fundamental science to applications in areas such as energy storage, advanced materials manufacturing, applied catalysis, advanced separations, biomass conversions, carbon capture and utilization, and hydrogen production and storage. We employ a systems perspective that includes discovery, technology development, and scale-up as well as economic, regulatory, and market acceptance issues necessary for successful technology commercialization.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking an accomplished Energy Storage Advisor to lead and advance the Laboratory’s strategy in electrochemical energy storage. This senior leader will shape PNNL’s research directions, strengthen partnerships internally and across government and industry partners, and position the Laboratory to deliver transformational impact in the science and engineering of energy storage materials and systems.
PNNL’s researchers are among the nation’s foremost leaders in energy storage technologies. Our experts, many recognized among the top one percent most cited in the field, are pioneering new materials, chemistries, and manufacturing approaches that enable developing the next generation of batteries for various applications and accelerate real-world testing, validation, and deployment.
Our work spans fundamental materials discovery to grid-scale testing and validation. Collaborations with automakers, utilities, manufacturers, and technology developers enable PNNL to assess how batteries perform under diverse operational, environmental, and market conditions, advancing industrial competitiveness as well as reliability, affordability, and resilience of the U.S. energy system.
A key asset in the PNNL energy storage portfolio is the Grid Storage Launchpad (GSL), a one-of-a-kind national facility where materials innovation, prototype development, and 100 kW-scale validation are co-located. The GSL brings together scientists, engineers, and industry partners to accelerate energy storage solutions that make the grid reliable, more resilient, and more secure.
At PNNL, interdisciplinary teams of chemists, physicists, materials scientists, engineers, and data scientists are redefining the frontiers of energy storage. Working closely with DOE, industry, and academia, our researchers accelerate the design, prototyping, and deployment of energy storage technologies that enhance U.S. energy reliability, industrial competitiveness, and economic security.
Through facilities like the Grid Storage Launchpad, and a culture of innovation and collaboration, PNNL provides unmatched contributions to take ideas from discovery to real-world demonstration, all in support of the nation’s affordable and resilient energy future.
Uses extensive experience in a field of specialty, possessing a comprehensive understanding of existing theories, principles, and concepts in those fields to provide solutions to unusually complex problems for which no precedents or past practice exists. Resolves problems that frequently require mastery of specialized techniques using high degrees of ingenuity and creativity. Demonstrates well-recognized national influence and skilled consensus building. Exerts positive influence across a broad spectrum of stakeholders and interest groups with internal and external organizations, the public, and the community. Is often sought out to work on key project teams and regularly collaborates and negotiates with senior national/international government officials as a PNNL and DOE representative. Makes recommendations that set precedent for future decisions and strongly influence national/international policies and decisions at highest levels.
Reporting to the Director of the Energy Processes and Materials Division, the Principal Advisor will serve as PNNL’s senior leader for battery R&D. In this high-impact role, the Advisor will:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive energy storage and materials strategy in partnership with leadership from PNNL, DOE, and our industry partners.
- Guide investments in people, equipment, and facilities that strengthen PNNL’s world-class capabilities and ensure international recognition for scientific and technological excellence.
- Advise and support PNNL leadership and DOE and other federal agencies at the senior executive level, providing technical and strategic insights that influence national programs and policy directions.
- Build and lead multidisciplinary teams across PNNL, mentoring senior technical leaders, and cultivating a culture of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence.
- Envision, secure funding for, and manage strategic projects ensuring consensus with key government and industry partners and leading outreach of results in cutting-edge science venues, including top-tier journal papers and leading conferences.
- Represent PNNL externally as an internationally recognized thought leader in energy storage materials and systems, articulating scientific priorities and national impact.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- BS/BA and 13 years of relevant experience -OR-
- MS/MA or higher and 11 years of relevant experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a closely related field.
Proven record of progressive leadership in research strategy, organizational development, and capability growth.
Deep knowledge of energy storage materials, electrochemistry, and systems integration, with demonstrated experience advancing R&D from fundamental science through application.
Demonstrated success working with DOE, other government agencies, and private industry.
Strong management, communication, and team-building skills; ability to lead across organizational and disciplinary boundaries.
Demonstrated commitment to safe, secure, and compliant laboratory operations.
Recognized thought leadership in next-generation batteries, energy storage for automotive applications, datacenters, and the grid, or advanced manufacturing for energy storage systems.
Experience establishing or directing multi-institutional or public–private research partnerships.
Demonstrated ability to develop and effectively articulate scientific vision to external stakeholders, attract top talent, and influence national strategy.
- Preferred location for candidate is onsite in Richland, WA
Hazardous Working Conditions/EnvironmentNot Applicable
Testing Designated PositionThis is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility RequirementsAs a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.
Mandatory RequirementsPlease be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company-funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.
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Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum SalaryUSD $188,400.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $318,000.00/Yr.
