Mechanical Systems Engineer I

Electra; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% paid premiums on medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with 5% matching contributions

12 weeks paid parental leave

Job summary

Electra is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer I in Boulder, Colorado. This early-career role supports the design and improvement of mechanical systems for innovative ironmaking technology. Responsibilities include CAD modeling, testing, and cross-functional collaboration.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree and possess foundational mechanical engineering knowledge. Join a team recognized for its impact and commitment to innovation.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering.
• Foundational knowledge of mechanical engineering principles including fluid systems and heat transfer.
• Familiarity with CAD tools for 3D modeling.

Responsibilities

• Support design of mechanical systems under senior engineers' guidance.
• Develop and revise CAD models and engineering documentation.
• Assist with equipment selection and testing activities.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering principles

CAD tools

Communication skills

Documenting engineering work products

Hands-on troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

Electra is reinventing ironmaking from the ground up with a breakthrough electrochemical technology that produces high purity clean iron and critical co‑minerals. With two operating pilots in Boulder and a new demonstration facility underway in Jefferson County, we’re on track to reach commercial scale by the end of the decade. Backed by over $300 million and strategic partnerships with global leaders across mining, steel, and big tech, momentum is on our side. Recognized by Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company and a Next Big Thing in Tech, and named one of TIME’s 100 Climate Leaders, we’re building a company shaping the future of industry. If you’re looking to make an impact and join a team that’s driven, focused, and scaling, we want to hear from you.

What you will do

The Mechanical Systems Engineer I supports the design, build, testing, and improvement of mechanical systems for Electra’s processing, material handling, and pilot or plant infrastructure. This is an early‑career role focused on applying core mechanical engineering principles, producing quality technical work, collaborating across functions, and growing toward increased independence and ownership.

Responsibilities

• Support the design of mechanical systems, equipment skids, and plant infrastructure under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Develop and revise CAD models, drawings, layouts, and related engineering documentation.
• Assist with equipment and component selection using design inputs, vendor information, and internal standards.
• Support fabrication, assembly, integration, commissioning, and testing activities with technicians, contractors, and cross‑functional teams.
• Troubleshoot mechanical systems and equipment with appropriate guidance and escalation.
• Document design decisions, test results, observations, and lessons learned clearly and accurately.
• Coordinate with process, automation, electrical, operations, and project teams to complete assigned work.
• Engage with internal customers and suppliers to gather inputs andtosupport execution.
• Follow engineering standards, templates, and document control requirements.
• Work safely and comply with all health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
• Actively build technical capability through feedback, training, and hands‑on experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience in mechanical engineering, process equipment, manufacturing, pilot plants, or industrial systems.
• Foundational knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, including fluid systems, heat transfer, mechanical equipment, and system integration.
• Ability to apply engineering fundamentals to routine problems with guidance.
• Ability to document, communicate, and apply lessons learned from testing or project work.
• Ability to produce organized and accurate engineering work products, including models, drawings, calculations, and test records.
• Familiarity with CAD tools for 3D modeling and drawing development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively across teams.
• Ability to learn quickly, follow engineering standards, and manage assigned work within a defined scope.
• Willingness to support hands‑on equipment builds, testing, and troubleshooting in lab, pilot, or plant environments.
• Proficiency with, or ability to quickly learn, Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, and SharePoint.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant internship, co‑op, research, capstone, lab, or early industry experience in mechanical design, fabrication, testing, or process systems.
• Exposure to engineering documentation such as P&IDs, general arrangements, assembly drawings, wiring diagrams, control panel layouts, or equipment specifications.
• Exposure to operations, maintenance, commissioning, or field installation in industrial or pilot environments.
• Experience in an R&D, pilot plant, startup, or fast‑paced technical environment.
• Familiarity with pumps, valves, piping systems, heat exchangers, tanks, material handling equipment, or other industrial mechanical systems.

Compensation

• The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000 and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education.

Benefits

• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, and basic life insurance plans.
• $1,800 in annual employer HSA contributions.
• 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, and telemedicine plans for family.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
• 401(k) with up to 5% matching contributions which vest 100% on day one.
• Eligibility for incentive stock options.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.