Sr. NPI Engineer

Job Description:

The San Francisco Chronicle has recognized Nextpower (Nasdaq: NXT) as one of the Top Workplaces. Join our growing team!

About Nextpower

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 Senior NPI Engineer will report to the Senior Manager, NPI Engineering.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior NPI Engineer with expertise in Design for Excellence (DFX) and technical project management to drive the introduction of new products from concept to mass production. This role will ensure product designs are optimized for manufacturability, assembly, cost, reliability, and scalability. This role will require working cross-functionally to drive high-quality and cost-effective product launches.

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver and strong project manager, experienced in DFM/DFA methodologies, supplier collaboration, and manufacturing process optimization.

Key Responsibilities
 

• Lead DFX initiatives, ensuring designs are optimized for manufacturability, assembly, cost, and reliability.

• Develop and execute NPI project plans, tracking milestones, risks, and deliverables to ensure seamless product launch.

• Conduct DFM/DFA reviews, working closely with design and engineering teams to enhance production scalability.

• Partner with suppliers and contract manufacturers to assess production readiness, resolve technical challenges, and drive process improvements.

• Establish and oversee testing and validation protocols, ensuring compliance with quality and industry standards.

• Identify and resolve bottlenecks during prototype, pilot, and production phases, ensuring smooth transitions.

• Develop and maintain process documentation, assembly guidelines, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, quality, operations, and supply chain) to align project goals and execution.
   

Qualifications & Experience
 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.

• 7+ years of experience in New Product Introduction (NPI)

• Proven expertise in DFX principles, with a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and production scalability.

• Experience managing complex, cross-functional technical projects, balancing timelines, quality, and cost.

• Strong background in high-volume production environments and global supply chain collaboration.

• Hands-on experience with project management tools (Jira, Confluence, MS Project, or equivalent).

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process optimization methodologies.

• Strong problem-solving, stakeholder management, and communication skills.

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) $160,000.00 - $175,000.00, 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