Reliability Test Engineer, Special Projects

Job Overview

The Linear Generator is a sophisticated, automated, and integrated system spanning thermodynamics, mechanical, electrical, software, and controls. This position leads the operation and execution of experiments on Linear Generators as part of Mainspring’s test engineering team, including hands‑on work and remote operation of qualification units, debugging, and data analysis to qualify new changes and improve reliability. The role requires travel up to 30% to our testing site in Houston, Texas.

• Operate Linear Generator units
• Perform hands‑on troubleshooting in close collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and software & controls engineering
• Work directly with technicians to coordinate repairs and retrofits
• Review test plans and provide expert guidance on test setup and execution
• Set up and maintain instrumentation to collect critical data
• Manage test priorities daily to meet higher‑level deadlines, focusing on throughput and uptime
• Analyze data, generate reports, and communicate results with engineering teams to facilitate learning and design releases
• Develop and improve processes and infrastructure to support testing on next‑generation products
• Interface with external stakeholders at the Houston testing site to coordinate service and resolve testing issues

• Master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, physics, or equivalent with 3+ years of applicable experience
• Proven experience with experimental hardware projects in an industrial product qualification or reliability testing context
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Demonstrated proficiency in complex project management within product development
• Proficiency in programming with Python, MATLAB, or C++ (at least one)
• Advanced data analysis capabilities
• Proficiency with root‑cause analysis methods
• Knowledge of safety protocols/LOTO for high‑voltage equipment and other safety‑critical systems
• Experience programming DAQ devices and working with a variety of instrumentation/sensors
• Experience communicating with customers or external stakeholders is a plus

$108,000 – $123,600 a year

This position is onsite at our Menlo Park HQ but may require travel up to 30% for onsite testing in Houston, TX. Salary will be adjusted to reflect local market conditions based on employee location and experience, and Mainspring offers pre‑IPO stock options and benefits.

In more traditional words, Mainspring Energy, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.