Lead Mechanical Engineer - Structures (Austin, TX)

Protagonist Management LLC; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and equity options

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Protagonist Management LLC is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer specializing in structural design to join our team in Austin, TX. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience, focusing on renewable energy systems. Responsibilities include designing and analyzing structural components, creating engineering drawings, and collaborating with various engineering disciplines.

This role offers a competitive salary between $150,000 and $215,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package and relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Extensive knowledge of structural mechanics and manufacturing processes.
• Experience designing for extreme environmental conditions.

Responsibilities

• Create structural designs for renewable energy applications.
• Develop structural models using FEA.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Structural Mechanics

3D CAD Software

Finite Element Analysis

Materials Science

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3system that captures solar energy, stores it as heat, and generates electricity on demand. Founded in 2023 and backed by leading investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Sam Altman, and Felicis, we are committed to providing clean, modular, and scalable power that meets the rapidly growing demands of AI infrastructure. Our mission is to make sustainable renewable energy always available and almost free, enabling technological advancement while protecting our planet.

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer specializing in structural design to join our growing team. In this role, you will engage in the structural design and analysis of our renewable energy systems, ensuring structural integrity, durability, and performance in diverse environmental conditions.

This position is based in Austin, TX, but an alternate location in Miami, FL is possible for the right candidate. Relocation to either Austin or Miami is required, and Exowatt provides relocation assistance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create the structural design of both stationary and moving structures and associated mechanical or drive components and system layouts for renewable energy applications.
• Develop and validate structural models using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and other analytical methods.
• Create detailed engineering drawings and specifications for manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including controls, electrical, thermal, and software engineers.
• Evaluate and select appropriate materials based on structural strength requirements, stiffness, cost, and sustainability.
• Design for manufacturability, assembly, and serviceability.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to the mechanical engineering team.
• Interface with suppliers, manufacturers, and external engineering partners.
• Participate in design reviews and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Troubleshoot structural issues during testing and deployment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Extensive knowledge of structural mechanics, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar).
• Experience with FEA software (ANSYS, Nastran, or similar).
• Strong understanding of GD&T ASME Y14.5 and engineering drawing standards.
• Experience designing for extreme environmental conditions (high winds, seismic events, etc.).
• Knowledge of relevant standards and codes (ASME, ISO, IEC, etc.).
• Experience with renewable energy systems (solar, wind, or energy storage) preferred.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

$150,000 - $215,000 a year

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and equity options.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• A dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in a rapidly evolving industry.
• Relocation assistance.