Mechanical Associate Test 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.

Position Overview:

Nevados is seeking an experienced Mechanical Associate Test Engineer in a contract capacity. This person will be

responsible for testing and qualifying the next generation of solar tracker technology. In this role, you will set up and perform testing experiments, following internal and industry standards. We are a small team; hence, you will have an opportunity to develop a diverse set of skills while supporting product verification and development.

We are located in Oakland, CA and require local candidates that are able to commute to the office or testing site as needed.

This is a temporary, 3 month contract position with the opportunity to convert to full time at the end of the contract period.

• Setup and teardown of mechanical tests.
• Perform durability and strength testing on mechanical parts and assemblies.
• Hands-On Setup, execution, and monitoring of tests.
• Maintenance and repair of test equipment and instrument calibration.
• Modification and fabrication of test fixtures and test setups.
• Follow best practices for laboratory safety, organization, and lab hygiene.
• Maintenance and procurement of lab consumables and tools.
• Perform accurate and rigorous test documentation.
• Communicate documented test results to Test Engineers and Product Engineers.
• Generate test reports and communicate results to product engineers and other stakeholders.
• Regular meetings with product engineers to communicate results and test strategy.
• Develop improvements to test verification process.

• 4 years experience in testing or technical support role.
• A.S. in STEM type curriculum or technical training.
• Hands-On Experience working on mechanical systems.
• Basic understanding of mechanics.
• Experience running automated systems and data collection.
• Data collection and documentation experience.
• Experience with typical test and data collection equipment and instrumentation.
• Technical writing experience and effective communication skills.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate across cross functional teams.
• Must be a self-starter, self-motivated and be able to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Hands-on experience with assembly and fundamental hand tools.
• Experience with shop tools and power tools for modification or fabrication of test fixtures and test samples.

• B.S. In STEM type curriculum completion or in progress.
• Prior experience working at a startup.
• Experience with life cycle, fatigue testing, strength testing, environmental testing.
• Experience with use of test and measurement equipment such as multimeter, calipers, inclinometers, displacement sensor, load cells.
• Experience using shop equipment, cutting tools, hand tools.
• Familiar with using Hydraulic and Pneumatic systems.
• Proficiency using office tools, Excel, Word, Powerpoint.
• Experience using productivity platforms such as Slack, Teams, Monday.
• Experience reading and interpreting test standards such as ASTM, ISO, UL, etc.
• Background in the solar industry.

These ranges indicate base salary. See more regarding total compensation packages below. Actual compensation will be determined based on candidate experience, skillset, and location.

Benefits & Total Compensation Package

Nevados offers competitive base salary, bonus, commission (if applicable to the role) and stock options commensurate with qualifications and experience. Full time employees and their eligible dependents are offered medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long term disability and vol life. We also offer 401(k) participation, unlimited PTO, generous sick leave, paid company holidays and 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.

Inclusion at Nevados

Not sure you meet every qualification? We encourage you to apply anyway. We're committed to building a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. This includes uplifting women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others who are underrepresented in cleantech and the broader tech industry. Nevados is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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