Zuhil Firnas

21700 l 18650 Cylindrical Assembly Tabless Model • Led the setup and commissioning of new production lines, successfully transitioning to mass production of cylindrical Li-ion batteries • Managed and optimized Preventive Maintenance (PM) and Autonomous Maintenance (AM) activity for assembly processes to ensure high equipment reliability • Analyzed equipment breakdowns using root cause analysis, reducing downtime and improving Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) • Developed and standardized machine debugging SOPs, and trained technicians to enhance troubleshooting efficiency and response time • Supervised and guided a team of technicians in daily equipment failure analysis and continuous improvement initiatives

1) Led equipment design reviews with machine suppliers to ensure compliance with project requirements and industry standards. 2) Monitored and managed product drawing revisions to ensure alignment with equipment design and specifications. 3) Created operator competence mapping to support smooth production ramp-up and consistent process execution. 4) Developed FAT planning for Cell Assembly equipment to validate functionality and quality requirements before installation. 6) Performed Chemical Risk Assessments to ensure safe and compliant Cell Assembly operations. 7) Collaborated with R&D to develop optimized and manufacturable process designs. 8) Coordinated with cross-functional teams to ensure supplier adherence to technical specifications. 9) Created Process Flow Diagram (PFD) for cell assembly process 10) Developed and maintained PFMEA to identify potential failure modes and define mitigation actions. 11) Supported the creation of the initial Quality Control Plan for new product phases. 12) Optimized Work Piece Carrier (WPC) design, reducing cost and complexity while maintaining product quality.

Process Quality Engineer 1) Improved yield by reducing a major defect category by 30% through root-cause analysis and corrective actions. 2) Managed Process & Product Non-Conformities for Electrode and Cell Assembly process, driving containment and corrective action closure. 3) Developed Control Plans, Work Instructions, and Reaction Plans to support NPI and ensure process stability. 4) Executed PPAP/PPV activities, including MSA and validation documentation. 5) Created a Product Failure Catalogue to support defect classification and systematic troubleshooting. 6) Participated in FAT to validate quality requirements for new equipment. 7) Co-developed PFMEA for new projects to identify risks and define mitigation actions.

1) Managed overall process quality KPIs for Winding and Cell Assembly, driving continuous improvement across production lines. 2) Led process optimization projects for multiple assembly lines, improving efficiency, yield, and equipment utilization. 3) Controlled and reduced slip-through defects across process stages (Electrode → Winding → Cell Assembly → Formation & Aging). 4) Supervised and mentored a team of 5 engineers in root cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives. 5) Delivered weekly and monthly technical reports to stakeholders, tracking performance and action plans. 6) Executed process improvement initiatives, ensuring compliance with SOPs, standards, and yield targets.

1) Improved Production KPIs and machine efficiency by reducing breakdowns and optimizing equipment performance. 2) Reduced slip-through defects from Cell Assembly to Formation & Aging by 50%. 3) Conducted root cause analysis (4M: Man, Machine, Method, Material) and implemented process improvements to eliminate recurring defects. 4) Reduced machine part changeover time by 80% through design simplification, improving production efficiency and line uptime. 5) Revised and optimized SOPs, standards, and work instructions to improve process flow and operator compliance. 6) Developed Preventive Maintenance schedules and improved equipment materials to extend lifespan and reduce downtime. 7) Prepared daily/weekly technical reports and ensured yield and defect targets were consistently met. Led improvement projects from planning to execution and result verification, coordinating cross-functional teams.