Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Company Overview

Nevados is the premier solar tracker company for PV power plants built on sloped and rolling terrain. We offer innovative all-terrain trackers paired with a comprehensive software suite in an integrated technology platform that optimizes solar performance, improves plant reliability and respects the natural landscape. Headquartered in Oakland and backed by institutional capital, Nevados is transforming utility-scale PV deployment with our tracking solutions and partnership approach.

Nevados is a distributed organization with many team members working remotely, while other roles require an in office and on-site presence. Specifics of the work location, travel expectations and other role requirements are outlined in the position overview. Ideal candidates are self-starters who are able to direct and manage their time wisely.

Position Overview: 

Nevados is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer responsible for developing the next generation of solar tracker technology. As part of the Mechanical Engineering team, you will be responsible for product ideation, concept development, prototyping, testing and training. You will work both on developing new product and sustaining existing product lines. 

We are in the Bay Area and require local candidates to commute to the Oakland office or testing site as needed. This is a hybrid role with the opportunity to work from home when testing or meetings allow. Additional travel, up to 20%, may be required to attend site visits, tradeshows, and company off-sites. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop product concepts and specifications for solar tracker components 
• Utilize SolidWorks to create detailed 3D models and 2D engineering drawings and perform FEA 
• Design components considering DFM requirements for various manufacturing processes including sheet metal fabrication (stamping, roll forming, welding), injection molding, and casting 
• Conduct and participate in design reviews and provide technical guidance and support to cross-functional teams throughout the product development lifecycle. 
• Develop test matrix, test plans and coordinate qualification of products with Test Engineering team  
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance product performance, reduce costs, and streamline manufacturing processes. 
• Develop installation instructions and training documentation. Provide product training for internal teams and customers.  
• Review work of other engineers and provide mentorship 

• Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering 
• 8 years of experience in mechanical design role
• 3 years of experience in the solar industry 
• Proficiency with SolidWorks for 3D modeling, analysis, and 2D drawings 
• Understanding of GD&T and Tolerance analysis 
• Understanding of DFM requirements for sheet metal components (stamping, roll forming, and weldments), injection molding, casting
• Familiarity with metal coatings and environmental testing 
• Strong analytical skills using engineering fundamentals and engineering intuition 
• Hands-on experience with assembly and fundamental hand tools 
• Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and convey technical information clearly and concisely.
• Detail-oriented with a strong emphasis on quality and attention to detail in design work. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 
• Experience with PLM, preferably Arena

Benefits & Total Compensation Package

Actual compensation will be determined based on candidate experience, skillset, and location.

Nevados offers competitive base salary, bonus, and equity commensurate with qualifications and experience. Full time employees are provided medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life insurance, and unlimited PTO, with additional benefit offerings as we continue to grow.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated as a requirement of the role, candidates must be willing to travel at least 10-20% of the time for company off-sites, conferences, trade shows, site visits, and other potential events as needed.

Don't meet every qualification listed in the job posting above? Apply anyways! Nevados is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to building a more inclusive ecosystem that integrates women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups into the cleantech sector and the overall tech industry. We strongly encourage applications from qualified individuals and members of underrepresented groups, even if your past experience doesn't align perfectly. You might be a fit for this role or another open position.

Interview Process

At Nevados, our interview process is designed to be comprehensive and thorough to ensure the best fit for both the candidate and our team. It typically entails 3-5 conversations over the course of 3-4 weeks. This timeline and format may vary based on the role as well as availability of team members and the candidate. The process is subject to change at any time.

Phone Screen: An initial call with Recruiting to discuss your background, expectations, and interest in the role.

Discussions with Hiring Managers: In-depth calls with hiring managers/team members to assess your technical skills and fit.

Cross Functional Team Member Interviews: Meetings to gauge team dynamics and working style.

Executive Leadership Conversations: Discussions with our executive team to ensure alignment with the company's strategic goals and vision.

Professional Reference Checks: The final step before an offer involves contacting your provided professional references to verify your qualifications and past performance.

We look forward to getting to know you better and exploring the possibility of you joining our team!

Salary : $150,000 - $190,000