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‑motivated and able to manage their time effectively.

Nevados is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to help develop the next generation of solar tracker technology. As part of the Mechanical Engineering team, you will own mechanical design work from concept through production, including prototyping, testing, NPI support, and root‑cause analysis. You will work on both new product development and sustaining improvements for existing products. This is a hybrid role based in the Bay Area.

Candidates must be able to commute to the Oakland office and/or testing site at least 2 days per week (with additional onsite days as needed). Up to 20% travel may be required for site visits, supplier visits, trade shows, and company off‑sites.

• Collaborate with cross‑functional partners (Engineering, Operations, Sourcing, Quality, Field) to define requirements and develop concepts for solar tracker components and assemblies.
• Use Solid Works to create 3D models, 2D drawings, and release‑ready documentation; perform structural FEA.
• Design parts and assemblies using DFM/DFA practices for manufacturing processes including sheet metal fabrication (stamping, roll forming, welding), injection molding, and casting.
• Lead design reviews, incorporate feedback, and drive design closure (performance, cost, manufacturability, reliability).
• Define verification approaches (test matrices and test plans) and partner with Test Engineering to execute qualification and interpret results.
• Partner with Sourcing, Quality, and contract manufacturers to support tooling, first builds, FAIs, and production ramp activities.
• Drive continuous improvement projects to enhance product performance, reduce cost, improve manufacturability, and streamline installation.
• Create and maintain installation instructions and training materials for field deployment.
• Support investigations of production and field issues, perform root‑cause analysis, and drive corrective actions (in collaboration with Quality and Field teams).

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in mechanical design / product development.
• Experience supporting products through NPI and into production (supplier/manufacturer collaboration, ECOs, build support, issue resolution).
• Proficiency with Solid Works for 3D modeling, 2D drawing creation, and FEA.
• Working knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis / stack‑ups.
• Strong DFM experience for sheet metal components (stamping, roll forming, weldments); exposure to injection molding and/or casting.
• Familiarity with metal coatings and environmental considerations for outdoor products (corrosion, thermal cycling, UV exposure, etc.).
• Hands‑on prototyping/assembly experience and comfort using fundamental hand tools.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills grounded in engineering fundamentals.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver in a fast‑paced environment.

• Experience with PLM systems (Arena preferred).
• Experience with DFMEA and test development.
• Experience in solar, renewables, or outdoor electromechanical products (high‑load, harsh environment).
• Experience in a startup or high‑growth environment.

Nevados offers competitive base salary, bonus,…