Test Engineer - Mechanical

We are looking for world-class talent to tackle challenging projects that will ultimately enable our planet to be powered with 100% clean energy.
First, the good news: Humans have installed a little over 1 TW of cumulative solar capacity over the last 20 years - solar is now the cheapest source of energy generation around the globe.
Now, the challenge: Humans have to build 3 TW of solar capacity every year for the next 30+ years. Planted is creating new technology to overhaul how we design, develop, and build solar power resources to make this happen.
And, we need help. We're expanding our team of curious, collaborative, and hands-on engineers and operators. Come own large parts of product, company, or business development and help make our big plans a reality!
ABOUT THE ROLE
As a Mechanical Test Engineer you will develop test plans and equipment and perform testing to validate our products and automation equipment. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with a cross-functional engineering team with a highly talented group of engineers from varied backgrounds. Expected salary range $80,000 - $130,000 and the target experience is 2-3+ years.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Writing test plans to evaluate the performance for structural and automation equipment
• Experimental design and design of test equipment including automation
• Operate test equipment with great attention to detail (tests have very little margin for error, so attention to detail is a crucial and essential characteristic of a development Test Engineer)
• Perform real-time and post-test data review to evaluate the performance of test article and test equipment. This includes documenting test results and recommending areas for upgrades and improvement.
• Assembling and operating automation and structural test equipment, including system assembly, electrical system assembly, mechanical installation and test operations
• Fabrication of test equipment including light manufacturing such as milling, drilling and sawing
• Find innovative ways to create, review, and optimize test processes/procedures to increase testing capability and rate
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
• Willing to travel (25% of the time) and work outdoors

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or similar
• Experience testing and writing test plans for mechanisms and structures
• Ability to work independently and exercise solid decision making
• Hands on prototyping and troubleshooting experience
• Demonstrate creative problem solving to develop new products
• Desire to work in a startup environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in CAD, preferably Solidworks
• Experience in field testing of solar array structures and hardware.
• Experience in field testing or field service of automation and mobile equipment.
• Experience in a multidisciplinary team

What We Offer

• Flexible hours & paid time off that we think you should actually use
• Stock option compensation
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• 401(k)
• A chance to have an empowered, meaningful, and early role in climate

This will be a great fit if:

• You have a bias for action and focus on the key work that drives the most impact.
• You want to solve challenging problems.
• You prioritize the physical and psychological safety of yourself, your team, and partners.
• You are humble, embrace change, and deliver and receive candid feedback.
• You are optimistic about the future, and can make tough decisions to help get there.
• You have high expectations, and coach, develop, and make time to help others.

You'll enjoy working at Planted because:

• We prioritize safety. We create technology and culture that allows everyone to go home healthy.
• We embody an owner mentality. We set goals, own the results, and proactively improve all aspects of our company - even in ways that are not explicitly part of our job and we take full responsibility for achieving the mission.
• We are biased toward action and complete quality work quickly and make tough decisions without agonizing.
• We are humble, embrace change, and value learning over being right. We see failure as a pathway to innovation and share setbacks and mistakes openly so everyone can learn and improve. We seek and celebrate the diversity of thought, experience, and culture to avoid echo chambers.
• We strive to elevate everyone. We set high expectations for performance and celebrate wins, big and small. We coach, develop, and make time to help each other.

Planted Solar is an equal opportunity employer with a firm commitment to growing inclusively, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, medical condition, age, or veteran status. However you identify or whatever background you bring with you, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.