Opportunity

Natel Energy is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Mechanical Technician to join our team and assist in R&D activities related to fish-safe hydro turbine development. In this role, you will be responsible for the fabrication and assembly of scale model hydro turbines and system test fixtures as well as participating in performance and fish passage testing operations. Additionally, you will share responsibility for maintaining a machine shop, aquaculture system, and warehouse space located in a historic hangar in Alameda, CA. The successful candidate will have a strong background as an engineering technician with hands-on experience in fabrication and assembly, be highly motivated and organized, and be a strong team player and collaborator.

Responsibilities:

• Hydro Turbine Fabrication and Assembly

  • Fabricate and assemble scale model hydro turbines and testing infrastructure according to specifications and engineering drawings.

  • Conduct quality control checks to ensure accuracy and functionality of assembled turbines.

  • Collaborate with engineers to identify and resolve any fabrication or assembly issues.

  • Perform maintenance and repairs on existing hydro turbines as needed.

• Aquaculture System Maintenance

  • Maintain and monitor an aquaculture system, ensuring proper functioning of pumps, filters, and other equipment.

  • Conduct regular water quality testing and implement necessary adjustments to maintain optimal conditions for aquatic organisms.

  • Oversee feeding and care of fish.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve any issues or malfunctions.

• Shop maintenance and upkeep, including CNC machinery maintenance and troubleshooting

Desired Skills and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in mechanical fabrication, assembly, and testing.

• Strong knowledge of mechanical principles and manufacturing processes

• General shop mechanical and electrical equipment knowledge

• Forklift and crane operation

• Manual machine tools, Mill, Lathe, drill press etc. 

• CNC mill operation

• Welding (MIG/TIG)

• CAD/CAM (Siemens NX, Fusion 360)

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings with a good understanding of GD&T 

• Quality assurance, part inspection

• Strong safety mindset and contributor to building a healthy safety culture

• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail

• Effective time management and organizational abilities

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Experience in maintaining and operating aquaculture systems and caring for fish is a plus

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification. If you’re passionate about water, climate and renewable energy we’d love to chat!

We are proud to offer great benefits like 4 weeks of paid vacation and trans-inclusive health insurance plans (along with dental, vision and life insurance). We want our team to live full lives outside of work. In addition to competitive salaries, we offer equity to new employees and other incentive compensation for overall team performance. 

Starting pay for the successful applicant will depend on a variety of job-related factors, which may include job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Compensation range for on site CA applicants is $26-$36. This range may be modified in the future.

Location

Alameda, California. We conduct business using technologies like Slack and video conferencing. We have an office and R&D facility in Alameda, CA, which is where many of our hardware team works in-person on a regular basis. We get together for occasional in-person gatherings to work, bond, and celebrate our successes. 

Travel. As needed to provide support at field sites to maintain Natel Energy’s operating projects. 

Our hiring process

Natel Energy is committed to building, supporting, and growing a diverse team. We have a standardized interview process designed to reduce individual bias, and have structured pay scales to prevent inequity. We don’t discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.