Mechanical Test Technician (contract)

Nevados; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Mechanical Test Technician for a temporary contract position. This role involves testing and qualifying cutting-edge solar tracker technology, where you'll set up experiments and perform rigorous testing to ensure product reliability. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in mechanical systems and testing, with a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Join a dynamic team dedicated to transforming utility-scale solar deployment, and enjoy the opportunity to develop a diverse skill set while contributing to impactful projects. If you're self-motivated and ready to make a difference, this is the role for you!

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in testing or technical support roles.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical systems and testing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Setup and perform testing experiments on solar tracker technology.
• Document test results and communicate with engineers.
• Maintain and repair test equipment and ensure lab safety.

Skills

Mechanical Systems

Technical Support

Data Collection

Technical Writing

Communication Skills

Self-Motivation

Education

High School Diploma

A.S. or B.S. in STEM

Tools

Test Equipment

Multimeter

Calipers

Hydraulic Systems

Pneumatic Systems

Office Tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Job description

Company Overview

Nevados is the premier solar tracker company for PV power plants built on sloped and rolling terrain. We offer innovative all-terrain trackers paired with a comprehensive software suite in an integrated technology platform that optimizes solar performance, improves plant reliability and respects the natural landscape. Headquartered in Oakland and backed by institutional capital, Nevados is transforming utility-scale PV deployment with our tracking solutions and partnership approach.

Nevados is a distributed organization with many team members working remotely, while other roles require an in office and on-site presence. Specifics of the work location, travel expectations and other role requirements are outlined in the position overview. Ideal candidates are self-motivated and able to manage their time effectively.

Position Overview:

Nevados is seeking an experienced Mechanical Test Technician in a Contractor capacity. The Test Tech is responsible for testing and qualifying the next generation of solar tracker technology. In this role, you will set up and perform testing experiments, following internal and industry standards. We are a small team; hence, you will have an opportunity to develop a diverse set of skills while supporting product verification and development.

We are located in Oakland and require local candidates that are able to commute to the office or testing site as needed.

This is a temporary, 3 month contract position with the opportunity to convert to full time at the end of the contract period.

Responsibilities:

• Setup and teardown of mechanical tests.
• Perform durability and strength testing on mechanical parts and assemblies.
• Hands-On Setup, execution, and monitoring of tests.
• Maintenance and repair of test equipment and instrument calibration.
• Modification and fabrication of test fixtures and test setups.
• Follow best practices for laboratory safety, organization, and lab hygiene.
• Maintenance and procurement of lab consumables and tools.
• Perform accurate and rigorous test documentation.
• Communicate documented test results to Test Engineers and Product Engineers.
• Generate test reports and communicate results to product engineers and other stakeholders.
• Regular meetings with product engineers to communicate results and test strategy.
• Develop improvements to test verification process.

Required Qualifications:

• 4 years experience in testing or technical support role.
• High school completion or equivalency.
• Hands-On Experience working on mechanical systems.
• Basic understanding of mechanics.
• Experience running automated systems and data collection.
• Data collection and documentation experience.
• Experience with typical test and data collection equipment and instrumentation.
• Technical writing experience and effective communication skills.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate across cross functional teams.
• Must be a self-starter, self-motivated and be able to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Hands-on experience with assembly and fundamental hand tools.
• Experience with shop tools and power tools for modification or fabrication of test fixtures and test samples.

Desired Qualifications:

• A.S. or B.S. In STEM type curriculum completion or in progress.
• Prior experience working at a startup.
• Experience with life cycle, fatigue testing, strength testing, environmental testing.
• Experience with use of test and measurement equipment such as multimeter, calipers, inclinometers, displacement sensor, load cells.
• Experience using shop equipment, cutting tools, hand tools.
• Familiar with using Hydraulic and Pneumatic systems.
• Proficiency using office tools, Excel, Word, Powerpoint.
• Experience using productivity platforms such as Slack, Teams, Monday.
• Experience reading and interpreting test standards such as ASTM, ISO, UL, etc.
• Background in the solar industry.

Compensation: $40 - $50 an hour

These ranges indicate base salary. See more regarding total compensation packages below. Actual compensation will be determined based on candidate experience, skillset, and location.