Student Worker Program - Associate Battery System Modeling Engineer

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves? 

 

Electric Vehicle Digital Design (EVDD) is responsible for developing the key technologies and capabilities – such as EV platforms, batteries, e-motors, inverters, charging and recycling – to create ground-up breakthrough electric vehicles. By joining the best software, engineering, design and UX talent, you will be a part of creating new technologies and concepts that can be applied across the Ford enterprise. Being on the EVDD team means building the future as Ford’s center of innovation and growth through electric and connected vehicles and services. 

 

As a student worker in our Battery Modeling team, you’ll have the opportunity to work hands-on with a dedicated group of experts and contribute meaningfully to breakthrough research and development within the field of Battery Management Systems (BMS), battery controls, electrochemical battery cell modeling, and battery testing. This role is designed to support your growth, both professionally and technically, as you help advance our initiatives in electric vehicle technology. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of battery technology and eager to redefine the future of mobility, this role is for you. 

This is a 6-month program 

 

• Hands-on Experience in Battery Controls & Modeling: Engage in projects focused on enhancing Battery Management System (BMS) controls, battery safety, efficiency, and lifespan through advanced modeling and testing practices.
• Collaboration & Growth in Battery Technology: Develop deep analytical skills in battery controls, physics-based modeling, and electrochemical modeling, while collaborating with a global, cross-functional team.
• Real-World Physics and Electrochemical Applications: Learn to create and refine battery models grounded in physical principles and electrochemistry, enhancing predictive capabilities for battery health, performance, and charging behaviors.
• Comprehensive Testing & Validation Exposure: Participate in both virtual and physical testing environments to refine next-generation battery models for EV applications, from initial concept development through testing and calibration phases. 

What you’ll be able to do: 

• Develop and Enhance BMS and Battery Control Models: Design, implement, and optimize models for BMS controls, physics-based behavior, and electrochemical interactions to improve battery state of health, charge/discharge dynamics, and energy efficiency.
• Optimize Testing Frameworks for Battery Controls and Models: Assist in creating and refining test setups, data collection protocols, and test validation methods for accurate battery control models. Work with engineers on lab and bench tests to align simulated and real-world results.
• Data Integration and Electrochemical Model Validation: Support validation of electrochemical and physics-based models by correlating test data with simulation results, using advanced data analysis tools to confirm accuracy and reliability.
• Enhance Code and Model Efficiency: Refine models for optimized computational performance, streamlined memory usage, and real-time functionality in EV systems.
• Drive Battery System Innovation: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to continuously integrate new data into models, ensuring alignment with the latest advances in battery controls, electrochemical modeling, and BMS strategies.

The minimum requirements we seek:

• Degree Program: Actively pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Academic Achievement: Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
• Curiosity & Analytical Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities, a keen interest in battery technology, and a willingness to ask “why” and explore answers.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: A team-oriented approach with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Availability: Ability to work from our Irvine, CA campus and commit to a 6-month program.
• Graduation Requirement: Candidates must be available for full-time work by September 2025.
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Preferred Requirements:

• Battery & EV Experience: Previous exposure to electric vehicles, BMS, or battery technology is a plus.
• Modeling & Programming: Experience with tools such as MATLAB, Python, or C++ for physical model development.

 

Testing & Data Handling: Familiar