Mechanical Design Engineer, Battery Pack

Proterra; Burlingame (CA); On-site; USD 141,000 - 169,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading battery technology company is looking for an experienced Mechanical Engineer to focus on the design of next-generation battery packs. This role involves developing battery subsystems, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and supporting architecture decisions. The ideal candidate has over 5 years in mechanical design, holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering, and is skilled in CAD software. This is an on-site position in Burlingame, CA with a compensation range of $141,500 – $168,500.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical design experience with contributions to battery systems.
• Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals.
• Experience designing for various materials and fabrication types.

Responsibilities

• Own design of battery subsystems and components from concept through launch.
• Support architecture decisions with analysis and quantitative input.
• Collaborate across engineering functions to define interfaces.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

Collaboration skills

Problem-solving skills

Communications skills

Self-directed and proactive

Education

BS in Mechanical Engineering

MS or relevant specialization

Tools

3D CAD Software

Job description

Position Overview

This role focuses on the mechanical design of next-generation battery packs, from architecture definition to production at volume.

About the role – You will

• Own design of battery subsystems and components from concept through launch
• Support architecture decisions with analysis and quantitative input on cost, mass, lifetime performance, and manufacturability
• Develop subsystem specifications and contribute to requirements definition with cross-functional partners
• Collaborate across engineering functions to define interfaces and ensure robust integration across mechanical, electrical, and thermal systems
  • cell engineers, modeling engineers, systems engineering, battery electronics engineering, test engineering, manufacturing engineering ; quality engineering, program management, supply chain, and other cross-functional teams
• Contribute to risk identification and mitigation planning
• Own basic component and subsystem level testing to support design decisions, coordinate large validation efforts with test team
• Root cause and corrective action execution for design, build, and launch issues
• Create detailed 3D CAD and 2D drawings using GD&T for parts and assemblies
• Execute part life cycle and engineering change orders
• Contribute to generation of supporting documentation (DFMEA, 8D, compliance, etc.)
• Share knowledge and provide guidance to less experienced engineers

About Our Group

We are part of the battery technology team, developing cutting-edge battery packs that meet aggressive cost, energy density, and manufacturability goals. Our team is driven by:

• Purpose: advancing electrified transportation through world-class battery technology
• Initiative: owning challenges and experimenting boldly
• Humility: seeking help and adjusting course when needed
• Critical thinking: analyzing deeply and questioning assumptions
• Growth: tackling complex problems and learning continuously
• Community: building a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment
• Kindness: practicing empathy and collaboration
• Fun: finding energy in the work and each other

You will report to the battery pack engineering manager and work closely with colleagues in our Burlingame CA R&D center and Greer, SC production facility.

About You

• Proactive and self-directed
• Creative and confident in idea generation
• Team-oriented, focused on mentorship and collaboration
• Comfortable influencing across all levels
• Detail-driven with strong judgment and problem-solving skills
• Adaptable, organized, and effective in a fast-paced environment
• Clear communicator; written, verbal, and visual

Your Experience Includes

• 5+ years of mechanical design experience with contributions to battery systems
• BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent; MS or relevant specialization is a plus
• Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals
• Demonstrated depth in at least one area of applied fundamentals (mechanics, thermals, fluids, circuits, etc.)
• Demonstrated experience delivering a design to production with participation across multiple product cycles, high volume manufacturing is a plus
• Experience designing for several materials and fabrication types (aluminum, steel, copper, plastic, dispensed materials etc.; stamped, cast, extruded, injection molded, coatings, etc.)
• Ability to contribute to architectural decisions, conduct trade studies, and clearly communicate complex concepts within the team and to immediate leadership
• Strong collaboration skills and experience working with systems, test, supply chain, and quality functions
• Experience sharing knowledge and supporting development of junior engineers

Designed and assembled in the United States, Proterra’s innovative battery platform offers industry-leading energy density, durability, performance and safety systems – enabling Proterra EV batteries to be the premium choice for commercial vehicles and industrial equipment.

Proterra’s battery technology offers industry-leading energy density, safety systems, and durability. Proudly designed in Silicon Valley and assembled in Greer, South Carolina, Proterra batteries are the premier choice to electrify commercial vehicles ranging from buses and trucks to construction equipment and more. Proterra is building innovative battery technology to power a better, more sustainable world.

Location: Burlingame, CA

Travel: 10%

Compensation: $141,500 – $168,500

Proterra is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all Employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or ordinance. Proterra participates in the Electronic Employment Verification Program (E-Verify).

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