Sr. Thermal Engineer

Job Description:

Nextpower is a global leader in intelligent solar tracker and software solutions, optimizing solar power plant performance worldwide. Our cutting-edge technology and commitment to innovation drive the renewable energy transition.

This position is a hybrid role (4x per week onsite) that will be based at our headquarters in Fremont, California. The Sr Thermal Engineer will report to the Director, Power Electronics Mechanical Engineering.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Sr Thermal Engineer that will lead the design, simulation, and validation of advanced thermal management solutions for power electronics systems encompassing conduction stacks, convection, and phase change techniques. 

What You Will Do:  

• Lead thermal design, prototyping, and testing of power electronics enclosures and support systems.  

• Work closely with cross functional teams and external partners to ensure project goals and schedules are met.  

• Develop comprehensive test plans, build test apparatus, and validate design performance.  

• Create documentation suitable for prototyping, design and production stages.  

• Conduct in-depth analyses of CFD, and tolerance analysis, to optimize designs for performance, reliability, and manufacturability.  

• Present design reviews and technical reports to internal stakeholders and management.  

• Investigate and resolve field failures or product performance issues.  

Minimum Requirements:  

• Bachelor's/ Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; 

• Minimum of 5 years experience with thermal management of power electronics systems. 

• Expert-level proficiency in CFD tools such as Flotherm or Icepak.  

• A deep understanding of structural mechanics and heat transfer.  

• Knowledge of various manufacturing processes, including vapor chamber and heat pipe implementations and heat sink manufacturing processes 

• Demonstrated experience with DFM/DFA principles and their practical application.  

• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting thermal systems.  

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.  

• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.  

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with high attention to detail.  

• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations. 

Nextpower offers a comprehensive benefits package. We provide health care coverage, dental and vision, 401(K) participation including company matching, company paid holidays with unlimited paid time off, generous discretionary company bonuses, life and disability protection and more. Employees in certain positions may be eligible for stock compensation. All plans are in accordance with relevant plan documents. For more information on Nextpower’s benefits please view our company website at www.nextpower.com.

Pay is based on market location and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education and other job-related reasons. The annual salary range for this position is Pay Range (Applicable to California) $180,000.00 - $200,000.00, dependent on level of experience.

At Nextpower, we are driving the global energy transition with an integrated clean energy technology platform that combines intelligent structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive portfolio enables faster project delivery, higher performance, and greater reliability, helping our customers capture the full value of solar power. Our talented worldwide teams are redefining how solar power plants are designed, built, and operated every day with smart technology, data-driven insights, and advanced automation. Together, we’re building the foundation for the world’s next generation of clean energy infrastructure.

Nextpower is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We are Nextpower