BE AT THE FOREFRONT OF CANADA'S CLEAN ENERGY TRANSFORMATION.
Salient Energy Inc. is advancing the next generation of safe, sustainable energy storage technology. Our zinc-ion batteries are designed to accelerate the global shift toward renewable power, providing a safer, more cost-effective, and scalable alternative to lithium-ion.
We're looking for a results-driven, technically savvy Chief Technology Officer who understands the pace, complexity, and challenges of a startup environment and brings a genuine passion for clean tech energy. As we move into the heart of commercialization, this leader will drive the continued advancement of our zinc-ion battery platform, aligning technology, execution, and team leadership to support scale, market readiness, and commercial success.
THE ROLE
Reporting to the CEO, the Chief Technology Officer will provide strategic and hands-on leadership across Salient Energy's technology function at a critical stage in the company's growth, balancing deep technical expertise with the operational and commercial oversight needed to advance through commercialization.
Leading the RCD, Cell Development, and Quality teams, the CTO will align technical direction, cross-functional execution, and team capability to support scale, certification, market readiness, and accelerated commercial success. As a member of the executive team, this leader will foster a strong, accountable, and collaborative culture while also serving as a trusted technical voice with the Board, investors, and external partners.
What You Will Do
- Lead Salient's technology function by providing strategic and technical leadership across RCD, Cell Development, and Quality.
- Define and deliver product specifications, technical priorities, and performance metrics aligned with Salient's technology roadmap and TRL targets.
- Support the successful advancement of Salient's battery platform through commercialization, including readiness for scale, certification, and market adoption.
- Ensure required product and process certifications, including UL and CSA standards, are achieved.
- Represent Salient externally as a credible technical leader with the Board, investors, partners, and at relevant industry and technical forums.
Your Skills, Education & Experience
Education & Technical Depth
- PhD in Chemistry, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or Materials Science/Engineering.
- Deep expertise in battery chemistry, electrochemistry, and testing processes, supported by 10+ years in a chemistry lab environment.
- Experience with advanced battery materials and ion transport mechanisms is considered an asset.
Product Development & Commercialization
- 8-10 years leading development projects, with demonstrated experience bringing new products to market.
- Proven ability to align technical priorities with commercialization milestones, performance goals, and market needs.
Leadership Profile
- Strategic & Commercial Acumen - able to connect technical direction to commercialization, scale, and business goals.
- Technical & Operational Leadership - brings rigor, focus, and accountability across complex technical programs.
- People & Stakeholder Influence - builds strong teams and communicates credibly with employees, executives, investors, and partners.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate brings the technical depth and scientific credibility expected of a CTO, along with the leadership, operational oversight, and commercial mindset needed to advance Salient's technology through commercialization. While technical capability is essential, success in this role will depend on the ability to translate innovation into practical commercial application, aligning technical priorities with business objectives, supporting teams with clarity and accountability, and sustaining momentum toward scale, market readiness, and performance. This leader will understand how to balance thoughtful refinement and continuous innovation with the urgency required to meet business goals and move the product forward.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to mentor teams and translate complex technical concepts into clear business value.
WHY SALIENT?
At Salient, you'll work alongside a team of scientists, engineers, and innovators who are deeply committed to building a safer, cleaner energy future. We believe the best ideas come from curiosity, collaboration, and continuous learning. As CTO, you will play a defining leadership role in shaping our technology strategy, strengthening our technical organization, and advancing our products toward market adoption. Your work will directly influence how Salient scales its zinc-ion platform and delivers meaningful impact in one of the world's most important sectors: clean energy storage.
We offer a competitive salary and a collegiate, supportive, and diverse team environment. Here, you'll have the opportunity to lead meaningful innovation, develop exceptional teams, and help build a technology company positioned to make a real difference.
TO APPLY
If you're ready to lead the advancement of future-defining battery technology, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your fit for this role for an initial review.
We embrace inclusion and diversity and welcome applicants to self-identify. Please feel free to indicate if you belong or self-identify. Please note this is an on-site position and requires the successful candidate be in, or relocate to HRM. All applications will be reviewed, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
