Foundation Applications Engineers

Nextpower; San Rafael (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care coverage

401(k) participation with matching

Unlimited paid time off

Discretionary bonuses

Job summary

Nextpower is seeking a Senior Field Applications Engineer to provide on-site and remote technical support, primarily focusing on foundation solutions in the renewable energy sector. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of field engineering experience and a strong understanding of mechanical systems. The role includes collaborating globally, managing multiple tasks, and training operators. The compensation range is $110,000.00 to $120,000.00 annually with a comprehensive benefits package, including health care and 401(k) matching.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in field engineering or a related technical field.
• Experience in the renewable energy sector preferred.
• Hands-on experience with heavy machinery and construction operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide on-site technical and engineering support.
• Lead engineering personnel globally.
• Collaborate with Product Development to co-develop solutions.
• Drive technology improvement using analytical engineering.

Skills

Technical problem-solving

Communication & collaboration

Project management

Hands-on mechanical aptitude

Training & support

Adaptability & innovation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in civil, mechanical, structural engineering, construction management

Technical certificate in heavy machinery engineering or construction

Advanced degree in engineering or technical field

Tools

Survey or GPS equipment

Heavy machinery

Job description

Position Summary

As a member of the Foundation Services team, Sr Field Applications Engineers (FAEs) provide R&D phase support, on‑site technical and engineering field support for Nextpower’s Product Engineering teams and for customers on active project sites. The Sr FAE leads integration of Nextpower’s foundation solutions, partnering with stakeholders and resolving on‑site issues with effective communication and collaboration. They also conduct field testing of hardware and machinery, report results, and identify solutions to improve technology and processes.

We Are Looking For Someone Who Demonstrates

• Customer‑centric approach with every customer interaction
• Focus on resolving on‑site issues while using out‑of‑the‑box thinking to drive innovation
• Effective, continuous communication across all stakeholders
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Consistent collaboration while driving effective teamwork
• Desire for continuous improvement and top performance

Key Responsibilities

• Provide customers with remote and on‑site technical and engineering support to integrate foundation solutions.
• Lead field and office‑based engineering personnel globally.
• Envision, develop, and improve internal processes and tools for global teams.
• Collaborate with Product Development, Machinery Engineering, and Software Engineering teams to co‑develop solutions.
• Document and communicate customer feedback and issues to internal stakeholders.
• Resolve on‑site and office issues, ensuring technology integration and customer satisfaction.
• Drive technology improvement and processes using analytical engineering decisions.
• Travel to provide on‑site operational and technical support.
• Design, implement, and complete field testing of foundation solutions hardware and machinery.
• Handle on‑site parts procurement and machine repair, leveraging internal and external personnel.
• Design, build, and train equipment operators, engineers, and mechanics.
• Support on‑site mechanic teams.
• Work with R&D to integrate technology, mitigate installation issues, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Recognize and report safety concerns, leading teams to eliminate safety risks.

Qualifications

Experience:

• 5+ years in field engineering, applications engineering, product development, mechanical engineering or a related technical field.
• Experience working in the renewable energy sector preferred.
• Hands‑on experience with heavy machinery, foundation installation, or construction site operations.
• Proven track record of resolving on‑site technical issues and providing field support.
• Experience in customer‑facing roles, providing direct technical support and troubleshooting.
• Management experience preferred.
• Experience with both hardware and software tools.
• Very strong computer skills required.
• Survey or GPS equipment experience preferred.

Education

• Technical certificate in heavy machinery engineering or construction (e.g., CCA, CCM, Certified Crane Operator certification, Assistive Design Certificate).
• Bachelor’s degree in civil, mechanical, structural engineering, construction management, or a related discipline.
• Advanced degree in engineering, software development, or other technical field preferred.
• Equivalent work experience in field engineering or construction may be considered in place of a formal degree.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of engineering principles, geotechnical considerations, and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with construction site safety regulations and best practices.
• Knowledge of solar tracker systems, foundation installation techniques, and pile driving equipment.
• Understanding of mechanical and electrical components related to foundation machinery.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, and site plans.

Skills

• Technical problem‑solving – diagnose and resolve on‑site technical issues efficiently.
• Communication & collaboration – strong verbal and written communication to interact with teams, customers, and subcontractors.
• Project management – manage multiple tasks, prioritize field activities, ensure timely issue resolution.
• Hands‑on mechanical aptitude – troubleshoot and repair field equipment and machinery.
• Training & support – conduct technical training for customers and field operators.
• Adaptability & innovation – think critically and apply innovative solutions to field challenges.

Benefits

Nextpower offers a comprehensive benefits package including health care coverage, dental and vision, 401(k) participation with company matching, company paid holidays, unlimited paid time off, discretionary bonuses, life and disability protection, and possible stock compensation. All plans are in accordance with relevant plan documents.

Compensation

Annual salary range: $110,000.00 – $120,000.00, based on market location and factors such as experience, skills, and education.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Nextpower is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.