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Company Overview
Nevados is the premier solar tracker company for PV power plants built on sloped and rolling terrain. We offer innovative all-terrain trackers paired with a comprehensive software suite in an integrated technology platform that optimizes solar performance, improves plant reliability and respects the natural landscape. Headquartered in Oakland and backed by institutional capital, Nevados is transforming utility-scale PV deployment with our tracking solutions and partnership approach.
Nevados is a distributed organization with many team members working remotely, while other roles require an in office and on-site presence. Specifics of the work location, travel expectations and other role requirements are outlined in the position overview. Ideal candidates are self-motivated and able to manage their time effectively.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineering Intern to support the design, testing, and field deployment of utility-scale solar tracker systems. This internship is ideal for a junior-level mechanical engineering student looking to gain hands-on experience with real-world mechanical systems, structural components, and renewable energy technology.
You will work closely with experienced engineers on both lab testing and field activities, gaining exposure to the full product lifecycle—from concept and validation to installation and performance evaluation.
This is an in-person role based in Oakland, CA. The internship will be approximately 4 months in duration, between May and August, but can be flexible to candidate availability.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with mechanical design support, including part modeling, drawings, and documentation
- Support mechanical and structural testing (component-level and system-level), including setup, data collection, and reporting
- Participate in field visits to solar project sites for inspections, testing, and installation support
- Help analyze test data and summarize results in clear technical reports
- Support root-cause analysis and design improvements based on test and field findings
- Assist with prototype builds, assemblies, and hands-on troubleshooting
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, controls, and field operations
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering (junior standing or higher preferred)
- Basic knowledge of mechanics, materials, and structural concepts
- Experience with or exposure to CAD software (SolidWorks)
- Comfortable working in both office/lab environments and outdoor field settings
- Strong communication skills and willingness to learn
What You'll Gain
- Hands-on experience with utility-scale solar tracker technology
- Exposure to real-world engineering challenges in testing and field deployment
- Mentorship from experienced mechanical engineers
- A strong foundation in applied mechanical engineering within the renewable energy industry
$25 - $40 an hour
Actual hourly rate will be determined based on candidate experience, skillset, and location.
Benefits & Total Compensation Package
Nevados offers competitive base salary, bonus, commission (if applicable to the role) and stock options commensurate with qualifications and experience. Full time employees and their eligible dependents are offered medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long term disability and vol life. We also offer 401(k) participation, unlimited PTO, generous sick leave, paid company holidays and additional benefit offerings as we continue to grow.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Unless otherwise explicitly stated as a requirement of the role, candidates must be willing to travel at least 10-20% of the time for company off-sites, conferences, trade shows, site visits, and other potential events as needed.
Inclusion at Nevados
Not sure you meet every qualification? We encourage you to apply anyway. We’re committed to building a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. This includes uplifting women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others who are underrepresented in cleantech and the broader tech industry. Nevados is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Interview Process
At Nevados, our interview process is designed to be comprehensive and thorough to ensure the best fit for both the candidate and our team. It typically entails 3-5 conversations over the course of 3-4 weeks. This timeline and format may vary based on the role as well as availability of team members and the candidate. The process is subject to change at any time.
Phone Screen: An initial call with Recruiting to discuss your background, expectations, and interest in the role.
Discussions with Hiring Managers: In-depth calls with hiring managers/team members to assess your technical skills and fit.
Cross Functional Team Member Interviews: Meetings to gauge team dynamics and working style.
Executive Leadership Conversations: Discussions with our executive team to ensure alignment with the company's strategic goals and vision.
Professional Reference Checks and Background Check: The final step before an offer involves contacting your provided professional references to verify your qualifications and past performance as well as a background check.
To ensure a fair and consistent experience for all candidates, we ask that interviews be completed without the use of real-time AI tools, scripts, or external assistance during live conversations, unless explicitly discussed and approved in advance.
Nevados provides reasonable accommodations for candidates who need them. Please let us know in advance if any adjustments are required.
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