Lead Materials Engineer (Miami, FL)

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3 system that captures solar energy, stores it as heat, and generates electricity on demand. Founded in 2023 and backed by leading investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Sam Altman, and Felicis, we're committed to providing clean, modular, and scalable power that meets the rapidly growing demands of AI infrastructure. Our mission is to make sustainable renewable energy always available and almost free, enabling technological advancement while protecting our planet. We are seeking an exceptional Lead Materials Engineer with deep research expertise to spearhead materials innovation for our revolutionary thermal energy storage technology. This role demands a PhD-level researcher who thrives on solving complex, multi-physics materials challenges that push the boundaries of what's possible in renewable energy. This position is based in Miami, FL. If selected, relocation to Miami, FL is required. Exowatt provides relocation assistance. What You'll Do: • Advanced Materials Research & Development: • Lead cutting-edge research into high-temperature thermal storage materials, optical concentrators, and heat engine components operating in extreme thermal cycling conditions • Develop novel material compositions and processing techniques for our proprietary sensible heat battery technology that must withstand temperatures exceeding 1000°C • Conduct fundamental research into thermal conductivity, heat capacity, thermal expansion, and long-term stability of advanced ceramics, refractory metals, and composite materials • Cross-Disciplinary Innovation: • Collaborate with our world-class team of mechanical, thermal, and optical engineers to solve complex multi-physics problems at the intersection of materials science, thermodynamics, and optics • Lead materials selection and optimization for our Fresnel lens systems, requiring expertise in optical materials, coatings, and durability under concentrated solar radiation • Drive materials innovation for heat engine components (Stirling engines) requiring expertise in high-temperature alloys, tribology, and fatigue resistance • Advanced Characterization & Analysis: • Design and execute sophisticated materials testing protocols using advanced characterization techniques (XRD, SEM/TEM, DSC/TGA, mechanical testing, thermal cycling) • Perform failure analysis and root cause investigations to continuously improve material performance and system reliability • Develop predictive models for material behavior under extreme thermal and mechanical loading conditions • Strategic Materials Engineering: • Lead materials cost optimization initiatives while maintaining performance requirements—balancing advanced material properties with manufacturability and scalability • Establish strategic partnerships with materials suppliers and research institutions to advance next-generation thermal storage materials • Drive intellectual property development through patents and publications in high-impact journals • Technical Leadership: • Mentor junior engineers and technicians in advanced materials characterization and testing methodologies • Create comprehensive technical documentation including research reports, material specifications, testing protocols, and manufacturing guidelines • Present research findings to executive leadership, investors, and at prestigious industry conferences Required Experience • Research Excellence: • PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with demonstrated expertise in high-temperature materials, thermal energy storage, or related advanced materials systems • Minimum 5 years of deep research experience in materials engineering, with preference for renewable energy, aerospace, concentrated solar power, or advanced energy storage industries • Proven track record of breakthrough research evidenced by high-impact publications, patents, and successful technology transitions from lab to commercial applications • Technical Expertise: • Extensive hands-on experience with advanced materials including high-temperature ceramics, refractory alloys, optical materials, thermal barrier coatings, and phase change materials • Deep understanding of materials thermodynamics, kinetics, and processing methods (powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing, thin film deposition, crystal growth) • Expertise in advanced characterization techniques and statistical analysis of materials data • Experience with computational materials science tools (DFT, molecular dynamics, finite element modeling) • Industry Impact: • Demonstrated success in translating research into commercially viable materials solutions • Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth technology companies or leading research institutions • Track record of cross-functional collaboration in complex engineering systems What We Offer: Competitive salary and equity options. Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans. A dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters creativity and innovation. Opportunities for professional growth and development in a rapidly evolving industry. Relocation assistance.