Mechanical Engineer, Structures

About the job

We are developing a core technology, the “Node”, that will operate in the worst conditions the world’s oceans have to offer for years at a time without human maintenance or intervention.

This position requires a highly motivated, hands-on engineer who thrives in ambiguity, can execute with autonomy, and is eager to take on end-to-end ownership, defining requirements and architecture and driving through design, prototype testing, and final build at our factory. The job requires a deep understanding of load paths, design for manufacturability, welded structures, subassembly design, and fabrication. We expect you to be especially strong in analysis and to gravitate toward first-principles, fundamental-physics approaches to problem solving. As one of the most experienced engineers on the team, you will set the technical bar, serving as a person whose judgment the team leans on when the right answer isn't obvious.

Responsibilities

• Own the design, analysis, and development of Node structures, secondary structures, and subassemblies
• Perform structural and dynamic analysis (FEA, hand calcs, margins, etc.) to validate designs including fatigue analysis
• Steer system definition, layout, requirements, and verification
• Create and maintain component and assembly CAD models
• Create detailed component and assembly drawings with a strong grasp of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-ups
• Drive design trade studies and engineering reviews, helping document decisions and technical findings
• Drive material selection and corrosion-conscious detailing for long-duration seawater service
• Plan and support structural validation testing, from coupon/component tests through prototype and at-sea trials
• Collaborate with offshore operations, technicians, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are practical and buildable
• Mentor less-experienced engineers and set design and analysis standards the team builds on

Qualifications

• Required:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of experience in designing mechanical or structural systems for complex hardware applications
• Strong knowledge of strength and stability hand calculations for structural sizing and model validation
• Strong understanding of mechanics of materials, material failure modes, and associated analysis methods
• Familiarity with a wide set of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, forming, and joining methods
• Proficiency with CAD software and assembly management
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment
• Desired:
• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related technical field
• 7+ years of demonstrated experience designing and analyzing primary structures subject to aerodynamic or hydrodynamic loads
• Proficiency with NX/Teamcenter
• Proficiency with NASTRAN/Simcenter
• Experience designing welded steel structures
• Experience utilizing relevant parts of codes/standards (e.g., DNV, ABS, AWS D1.1, BPVC) for novel applications

Additional Requirements

• Travel to vendors and test sites as needed.
• Intermittently able to work longer hours and weekends to support critical needs. While we expect a lot of each other, we also offer a high degree of autonomy and work-life balance.

Compensation and Benefits

• Cash compensation of $160,000 - $210,000.
• Equity in the company. We’re all owners and if we’re successful, this equity should be far and away the most valuable component of your compensation.
• A benefits package that helps you take care of yourself and your family, including:
• Unlimited, flexible paid time off and flexible working hours.
• Health insurance (the company pays 100% of gold level PPO plan for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents).
• Dental insurance (the company pays 100% for full-time employees and 100% for their partners and dependents).
• Vision insurance (the company pays 100% for full-time employees, their partners, and dependents).
• Disability insurance (the company pays 100% for a policy to provide long-term financial support if you become disabled).
• Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FSA.
• Relocation assistance to facilitate your move to Portland (if needed).

Location

This is an on-site position. Our offices, lab, and shop are located in Portland, Oregon. Expect periodic travel to deployment sites and time on the shop floor and on the water.