Lead Mechanical Engineer, Structures

NextGenEnergyJobs; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 235,000 - 285,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in the company

100% employer-paid health insurance

Flexible paid time off

Job summary

NextGenEnergyJobs is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for an on-site position in Portland, Oregon. The role involves leading the design and development of primary and secondary structures, mentoring engineers, and collaborating closely with manufacturing to achieve cost-effective designs.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in mechanical or related engineering, with over 10 years of CAD experience and extensive knowledge of welded structures. Competitive cash compensation ranges from $235,000 to $285,000 per year, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of 3D CAD modelling experience required.
• 5+ years experience with safety-critical welded steel structures.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of Node's structures.
• Build and manage a team for future iterations.
• Oversee project documentation and create detailed engineering releases.

Skills

3D CAD modelling

Team Leadership

Structural FEA

Engineering Fundamentals

Programming (Python, Julia, Mathematica)

Education

Degree in mechanical engineering or related field

Advanced degree or additional experience

Tools

NX/Teamcenter

Job description

This is an on‑site position. Our offices, lab, and shop are located in Portland, Oregon.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of the Node’s primary and secondary structures.
• Build and manage a team that supports future iterations of the Node.
• Own the design, analysis and development of Node structures, secondary structures and subassemblies.
• Lead and participate in design reviews with the internal team and interface with external fabricators and vendors.
• Mentor and guide other engineers and designers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Oversee project documentation and create detailed engineering releases using drawings and GD&T.
• Partner closely with Manufacturing and Operations to produce new Node designs that achieve targets for cost and performance.
• Develop and maintain expertise in CAD software personally and within the team for engineering definition and release.

Requirements

• A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, naval architecture, marine engineering, or another related field.
• Extensive experience designing components, structures and assemblies from a variety of materials.
• 10+ years of 3D CAD modelling experience.
• 5+ years experience with large‑scale, safety‑critical welded steel structures.
• Strong fundamental skills with hand calculations and experience with structural FEA.
• Demonstrated experience building teams, leading, and mentoring other engineers.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to provide guidance and receive it from engineers, designers, technicians, and suppliers.
• A work history including at least five design, build, test, deploy/release/produce cycles for complex systems or vehicles.
• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field or five years of additional experience.
• 5+ years in a similar role.
• Proficiency with NX/Teamcenter.
• Understanding of engineering fundamentals relevant to marine systems (welded structures, mechanical assemblies, hydraulics/pneumatics, industrial automation and data acquisition).
• Experience with a programming language such as Python, Julia or Mathematica.
• Knowledge of engineering standards such as ASME Y14.5.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and presentation skills.
• Desired qualifications are not required; we encourage strong candidates with a subset of skills to apply.

Benefits and Compensation

• Cash compensation of $235,000–$285,000 per year.
• Equity in the company.
• Benefits package including flexible paid time off, 100% employer‑paid gold‑level PPO health insurance for employees, partners and dependents, dental and vision insurance, disability insurance, and tax‑advantaged accounts such as 401(k), health FSA and dependent care FSA.
• Relocation assistance to facilitate a move to Portland.