Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Description

The San Francisco Chronicle has recognized Nextpower (Nasdaq: NXT) as one of the Top Workplaces. Join our growing team!

This position is a hybrid role (4× per week onsite) that will be based at our headquarters in Fremont, California.

Nextpower seeks a creative and experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a position on the mechanical structures team. This engineer will be responsible for designing steel frame components to support Nextpower’s goal of leading industry-wide adoption of steel frame technology.

• Lead product design and engineering development of Nextpower steel frame components
• Contribute to concept development, design, and engineering for new and existing products, with a strong focus on manufacturability, scalability, and cost optimization.
• Perform and manage engineering work using CAD / FEA software to solve problems in mechanical / structural design, finite element analysis, design optimization, tolerance stack‑ups, prototype generation, fatigue analysis, and production of manufacturing drawings
• Participate in brainstorming sessions with the mechanical engineering team to identify concepts and designs for future improvements
• Problem‑solve time‑sensitive manufacturing and production issues gating product launches and ramps
• Partner with global suppliers and tooling partners to validate designs, optimize production processes, and resolve technical challenges.
• Contribute to Root Cause Analysis (RCA) of issues discovered during pilot testing
• Mentor other engineering staff in CAD, prototyping, high volume design, supplier requirements, and communication skills

• B.S. or M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related field (advanced degree preferred)
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Toolsets required:
  Solid Works, ePDM, FEA (ANSYS preferred)
• Extensive knowledge/experience with drawings, model and tolerance standards and application.
• Strong understanding of DFM for castings and sheet metal stampings
• Extensive knowledge of GD&T standards, tolerance analysis
• Experience in mass production manufacturing and part validation (Stampings/Rollings/Castings/Injection Molding)
• Strong aptitude and intuition in mechanical failure analysis
• Practical knowledge of prototyping manufacturing process
• Must possess solid written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

• Strong understanding of roll forming
• Experience working in Solar, preferably in module or racking design
• Hands‑on background in prototyping, pilot runs, and production ramp‑up.
• Management experience
• Confluence, Arena, Miro (Real Time board), Jira

🚀
Innovative Environment: Be part of a team that's at the forefront of revolutionizing solar energy technology. Collaborate with experts who are passionate about driving clean and sustainable solutions to power the world.

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Professional Growth: At Nextpower, we encourage continuous learning and provide opportunities for your professional development. Take on challenges, expand your skill set, and advance your career alongside accomplished professionals.

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Collaborative Culture: We believe in the power of teamwork. Share your ideas, engage in cross‑functional collaborations, and contribute to a culture that values diversity and inclusivity.

🎯
Impactful Work: Join us in making a real impact on the planet by accelerating the adoption of renewable energy. Your contributions will play a crucial role in building a more sustainable future.

• 🌳 Proximity to Coyote Hills Regional Park:
  Our headquarters in Fremont is located within walking distance from the beautiful marshland and rolling grassland‑covered hills. Take a rejuvenating walk or bike ride on the trails to find inspiration in nature's beauty.
• 🚴 Bike‑Friendly:
  We believe that a refreshing environment enhances creativity and well‑being. Hop on Nextpower’s bike to ride through the breathtaking landscape.
• 🏋️♀️🧘♀️ Wellness:
  We value both…