Automation Engineer

What We Do  

At Terabase Energy, we believe that digitalization and automation will drive the next wave of innovation and cost reduction in large scale solar. To fully unlock the potential of this opportunity, Terabase is developing an interconnected software and construction automation platform. We work alongside project developers, owners, and engineering & construction firms to support the design, optimization, and construction of huge solar projects around the world. Our team is a blend of solar industry veterans and newbies, thought-leaders, dreamers, software, electrical, and mechanical engineers, coders, product managers, project managers, and sales and marketing professionals. We are based in Northern California, with several other offices in the United States and around the world. If all of this piques your interest, we’d love to hear from you!

Position Summary:

Are you a problem-solver with a passion for building innovative mechanical solutions that move clean energy forward? We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our collaborative, fast-paced team focused on optimizing solar utility power plant installations. In this role, you’ll be involved in every stage of the product development lifecycle—transforming ideas into engineered solutions that drive efficiency, reduce cost, and scale solar deployment. You’ll have the opportunity to lead design efforts, contribute to cross-functional reviews, and leave a lasting impact on the clean energy transition.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop and implement innovative solutions to improve the efficiency of solar utility power plant installations.

• Design, prototype, and install new or modified mechanical systems and components.

• Rapidly iterate designs to achieve optimal performance, cost, and manufacturability.

• Conduct thorough design analyses and hands-on validation using sound engineering practices.

• Own the complete product development cycle—from concept and design through prototyping, field testing, production drawings, and supplier coordination.

• Actively contribute to team design reviews and support fellow engineers with technical feedback.

• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers or interns.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in mechanical product development.

• Strong hands-on prototyping and troubleshooting experience in industrial automation systems.

• Proficient in mechanical design for manufacturability, including methods like machining, sheet metal forming, casting, weldments, and injection molding.

• Working knowledge of motion systems, pneumatics/electromechanical actuators, and motor sizing (DC/stepper motors).

• Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD and 2D drafting (SolidWorks preferred), including use of GD&T.

• Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, ABAQUS, SolidWorks Simulation) for validating mechanical performance including nonlinear analysis.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work autonomously and make sound engineering decisions.

• Self-starter with a proactive, detail-oriented mindset and eagerness to dive into all facets of design.

• Willingness to travel up to 25% to vendor/customer sites and R&D facilities on the West Coast.

Compensation And Benefits

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within each posted range individual pay is determined (and may be greater or higher) dependent on work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.  Terabase offers competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Generous time off a