Product Design and Release Engineer

Job Description

At Verterra Energy, we're on a mission to harness the power in the world's rivers, canals, and oceans. To accomplish this, we are commercializing our first device called VOLTURNUS, a pioneering water-power technology that deploys in harmony with the current to capture baseload, zero emission electricity.

Backed by top-tier investors and a multi-year government contract, we are growing our founding team to help achieve key milestones. Partners and collaborators include: NIRON, DoD, DoE, University of Minnesota, WEG Group, Beckhoff, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, and the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Recent press releases can be found on our website: https://www.verterraenergy.com/news

Requirements

We are seeking an innovative and experienced Product Design & Release Engineer to act as the lead layout designer and master modeler for the Volturnus system at multiple scales. The role involves leading the part break-out for injection molding, thermoforming, and layup sections of the body and structure of Volturnus.

This highly technical role will collaborate with our electrical, mechanical design, marine, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust system integration throughout the development process. The ideal candidate has experience managing master models and providing component-level design support across multiple systems and part types, including composites, injection-molded plastics, metals, and routings.

The Product Design and Release Engineer will contribute to prototyping, product design, supplier development, and operational support. They should have practical experience with product development, lifecycle management, and a curious, thoughtful engineering mindset suitable for a fast-paced startup environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Collaborate closely with mechanical, marine, and electrical design teams as the master modeler for the Volturnus system.
2. Own the design of the core geometry of Volturnus and layout features, managing parametric relationships between components.
3. Provide feedback on part designs, drawings, and contribute to component specifications.
4. Coordinate with suppliers and vendors as a key technical contact for sourcing components, including informing production processes and tooling.
5. Work with manufacturing engineering and operations on product design, tooling, and production processes to support scaling.
6. Assist in developing Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and Design Verification Plans (DVPs) under engineering leadership.
7. Act as the subject matter expert for modeling tools and product lifecycle management, seeking continuous improvement.
8. Maintain detailed documentation of design changes, decisions, and specifications for traceability and compliance.
9. Conduct reviews and testing to ensure designs meet quality and performance standards.
10. Provide training and mentorship to junior designers and engineers, fostering a collaborative environment.
11. Work with the program team to adhere to development schedules and processes.

Requirements

Must Have

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering with 5+ years of relevant experience
• OR Associate/Technical Degree in a science-based discipline with 10+ years of relevant experience
• Experience with advanced solid modeling software and managing complex assemblies
• Mechanical design experience with metals, plastics (injection molding), and other materials used in the Volturnus system
• Familiarity with design quality tools: DFMEA, DVP, DFM, DFA, GD&T
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional team
• U.S. Person status as defined by regulations

Nice to Have

• 10+ years in product design and engineering
• Bachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering
• Knowledge of GD&T and statistical analysis in design
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Organizational skills for task prioritization
• Flexibility in a startup environment

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) options
• Free life insurance and AD&D benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous PTO: 4 weeks starting, plus sick leave and holidays
• Flexible, modern work environment with amenities
• Bike-friendly workplace, on-site showers, relocation support