Mechanical Engineer

Description

The Mechanical Engineer will design, develop, and analyze mechanical systems for Fervo’s geothermal power plants, including rotating equipment, heat exchangers, piping systems and other components. This position will conduct simulations, feasibility studies, cost evaluations and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize system efficiency and performance. Additionally, they will support field operations, troubleshoot mechanical issues, optimize mechanical CAPEX &OPEX and ensure compliance with industry standards and environmental regulations. This position will report to the Engineering Manager.

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyze mechanical components and systems for geothermal power plants, including rotating equipment, heat exchangers, condensers, cooling towers, and piping networks.
• Conduct detailed thermal and mechanical simulations to enhance system performance, cost and reliability.
• Develop specifications and select materials for high-temperature and high-pressure components to ensure long-term operational integrity.
• Oversee and participate in the fabrication, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of geothermal power plant equipment. 
• Collaborate with the Process team and ensure mechanical integrity and compliance with process conditions
• Confirm all mechanical related engineering deliverables (P&IDs, DSs, ISOs, eq. lists, etc.) are correct and aligned
• Work closely with geologists, reservoir engineers, electrical engineers, and environmental specialists to integrate mechanical systems into the broader geothermal energy infrastructure.
• Support field operations by providing technical guidance on drilling, wellhead equipment, downhole tools, and geofluid gathering systems.
• Develop and implement predictive and preventive maintenance strategies to maximize uptime and minimize equipment failures.
• Ensure all mechanical designs comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental guidelines, including ASME, API, and ASTM standards.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and project documentation, communicating findings and recommendations to stakeholders
• Review, comment on, and approve vendor drawings and technical submittals for compliance with specification and project requirements. 
• Perform technical evaluations of vendor proposals and equipment 
• Work with vendors to resolve technical issues and ensure equipment meets project needs 
• Serve as the technical liaison between vendors, contractors, and internal Fervo teams 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, preferable in the energy or geothermal sector
• Familiarity with thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and simulation tools (e.g., ASPEN, ANSYS, COSMOL)
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems in power plants or industrial facilities
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary environment; Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail; Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Willing and able (with or without reasonable accommodation) to travel to various field locations and Fervo office locations up to 25% of the time

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Process Design Documents (P&ID, PFD)
• Experience in both EPC and operator environments, with demonstrated experience of full large capital project life-cycles
• Proven track record reviewing and providing detailed comments on vendor design packages
• Knowledge of industry codes and standards relevant to geothermal applications (ASME, API, etc) 
• Experience with value engineering and optimization of mechanical systems for cost and performance

Location

Fervo Energy is headquartered in Houston, TX with growing offices in Oakland, CA, Golden, CO, Reno, NV, and Salt Lake City, UT. This position will be eligible for some hybrid work flexibility, but regular in-office presence at the Houston or Reno offices will be required. Some travel is required for this position. 

Compensation And Benefits
Fervo provides a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, short-term and long-term disability, flexible paid time off, and paid parental leave. Additionally, Fervo offers an incentive stock options program, a bonus incenti