Role

Natel Energy is seeking a motivated and skilled mechanical engineering intern looking to apply themselves in a fast paced environment. Natel designs and tests high performance fish-safe hydraulic turbines, modernizing the hydro industry and preserving biodiversity while simultaneously enabling decarbonization. You will join a small and exciting team where we develop and analyze the hydraulics and mechanics of turbine equipment, from some of the largest in the global fleet down to scale model performance test units. Natel’s hydraulic test laboratory is the only one in the world capable of performing both fish passage testing and scale hydraulic testing in accordance with international standards, and your role will likely include the design, assembly, and/or testing of scale model machine components as well as supporting systems and other R&D equipment. You will be paired with one of our mechanical engineering mentors for the duration of your internship, working closely with them on projects having direct impact for Natel and for the hydro industry.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar, with at least two years completed

• An organized and data-driven approach to problem solving

• 3D CAD modeling experience

• Experience in conducting well-documented structural / mechanical analyses

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Confidence in working independently to drive a project forward

• Clear interest and motivation to apply yourself in Natel’s mission and industry

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with FEA, tolerance analysis, and/or drafting

• Experience in machining, fabrication, and/or inspection methods

• Experience with sensors, data acquisition systems, and PLCs

Compensation & Benefits

Natel Energy offers paid internships starting at $1100/week, as well as assistance with traveling to the Bay Area if needed. Housing is not provided.

Location 

Onsite, Alameda, CA. We regularly work with and test equipment, so this role is full time at Natel’s Alameda, California office and facility,

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.

Role

Natel Energy is seeking a skilled and motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our team! Natel designs and tests high performance fish-safe hydraulic turbines, modernizing the hydro industry and preserving biodiversity while simultaneously meeting decarbonization goals. You will join an exciting and fast paced team where we develop and analyze the hydraulics and mechanics of turbine equipment, from some of the largest in the global fleet down to scale model performance test units; and you will help us achieve our goals of modernization, decarbonization, and biodiversity by designing and testing turbine equipment so we can demonstrate and guarantee high performance and fish survival. Natel’s hydraulic test laboratory is the only one in the world capable of performing both fish passage testing and scale hydraulic testing in accordance with international standards, and your role will include the design, assembly, and testing of scale model machines as well as supporting systems and other R&D equipment. As part of a small organization you will have the opportunity to drive your projects from concept to implementation, owning each step along the way.

Prior experience in the hydro industry is not required. A successful candidate will have an appetite to hone a range of design, testing, and project management skills; will be an effective communicator and collaborator; will thrive whether working in CAD/FEA or on the shop floor; and will be passionate about our mission and opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Enable the development and delivery of Natel’s hydraulic designs via: CAD modeling of existing hydraulic facilities; analysis of full-scale turbine runner (i.e. propeller) mechanisms and structure; detailing and conveying runner and turbine geometries, specifications, and analysis results to partner OEMs; and cost estimation and design for manufacturing.

• Design, procure, integrate, and operate scale model test turbine equipment. You will evaluate new turbine types and requirements; detail components and assemblies using a mix of materials and processes; conduct and document analyses and tolerance stackups; design fixtures, tools and test equipment; review others’ work, both internal and external; and collaborate in manufacturing, assembly, operation and testing, and reporting.

• You will become familiar with and share responsibility for the operation and improvement of the control and data acquisition systems for Natel’s laboratory equipment.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar

• At least 1-2 years relevant experience (rigorous internships may count)

• An organized and data-driven approach to problem solving

• 3D CAD modeling experience including assemblies

• Experience in conducting well-documented structural / mechanical analyses

• Experience with structural FEA

• Experience with tolerance analysis and drafting

• Strong written and verbal communication skills: comfortable receiving as well as providing guidance and technical material from/to engineers, designers, technicians, and suppliers

• Confidence in working independently to drive a project forward

• Experience in control and data systems is not required, but interest in learning and contributing in this area is a must!

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with Siemens NX, including surfacing, and Simcenter Nastran

• Familiarity with a range of FEA techniques including 1D / connection elements, 2D and laminate modeling, mixing element types, and assessing a variety of failure modes

• A well-versed understanding of ASME Y14.5 GD&T as well as typical machining, fabrication, an inspection methods

• Hands-on experience with relevant processes (machining, fabrication, composite layup, inspection, assembly, etc) whether professionally or personally

• Experience with sensors, data acquisition systems, and PLCs

• Endorsements or certifications in applicable skill areas

Compensation & Benefits

Starting pay for the successful applicant will depend on a variety of job-related factors, which may include job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, market location, business needs, other compensation components, and/or market demands. The starting base salary range for this role is  $105k-$133K. This range may be modified in the future.

In addition to competitive salaries, we offer equity to new employees and incentive compensation  based on team performance.

We are proud to offer great benefits like 4 weeks of paid vacation, 2 weeks of paid sick leave, and trans-inclusive health insurance plans (along with dental, vision and life insurance). We want our team to live full lives outside of work.

Location 

Onsite, Alameda, CA. This role is full time at Natel’s Alameda, California office and facility, with flexibility to work from home intermittently. We have a dog-friendly workplace!

Occasional travel may be required for supplier site visits, field testing, or similar.

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.

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.

Role

Natel Energy is seeking a skilled and motivated Senior or Staff Mechanical Engineer to join our team!  Natel designs and tests high performance fish-safe hydraulic turbines, modernizing the hydro industry and preserving biodiversity while simultaneously enabling decarbonization. You will join an exciting and fast paced team where we develop and analyze the hydraulics and mechanics of turbine equipment, from some of the largest in the global fleet down to scale model performance test units; and you will help us achieve our goals of modernization, decarbonization, and biodiversity by designing and testing turbine equipment so we can demonstrate and guarantee high performance and fish survival. You will lead design, assembly, and testing efforts of scale hydraulic test model turbines in accordance with international standards; design and analyze full scale turbine components for manufacturability in coordination with suppliers and OEM partners; and work with our hydraulic design engineers to expand our product range.

Prior experience in the hydro industry is not required. A successful candidate will have a strong mix of design, testing, and project management skills; will be an effective communicator, collaborator, and leader; will thrive whether working in CAD/FEA or on the shop floor; and will be passionate about our mission and opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Own the space where hydraulic designs and shapes meet the mechanical and manufacturing space. Develop and quantify requirements and processes needed for design evaluation; recommend and implement DFM and structural improvements; internalize and leverage market and supply chain drivers, costs, and opportunities.

• Enable the development and delivery of Natel’s hydraulic designs via: CAD modeling of existing hydraulic facilities; analysis of full-scale turbine runner (i.e. propeller) mechanisms and structure; detailing and conveying runner and turbine geometries, specifications, and analysis results to partner OEMs; and cost estimation and design for manufacturing.

• Lead the design, procurement, integration, and operation of scale model test turbine equipment in collaboration with our hydraulics, lab engineering, and operations leads. Evaluate new turbine types and requirements, develop solutions for cost effective and precise machine equipment builds, and guide the team through design to commissioning and testing.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar

• At least 4 years relevant experience

• Engineering leadership experience, technical and/or managerial

• An organized and data-driven approach to problem solving

• 3D CAD modeling experience including assemblies and surfacing

• Expertise in conducting well-documented structural / mechanical analyses

• Expertise with structural FEA

• Expertise with tolerance analysis and drafting

• Strong written and verbal communication skills: comfortable receiving as well as providing guidance and technical material from/to engineers, designers, technicians, and suppliers

• Confidence in working independently to drive a project forward

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with Siemens NX, including surfacing, and Simcenter Nastran

• Familiarity with a range of FEA techniques including 1D / connection elements, 2D and laminate modeling, mixing element types, and assessing a variety of failure modes

• Familiarity with steel fabrication, forging, casting, and machining processes

• A well-versed understanding of ASME Y14.5 GD&T as well as typical machining, fabrication, an inspection methods

• Hands-on experience with relevant processes (machining, fabrication, composite layup, inspection, assembly, etc) whether professionally or personally

• Experience in aerodynamic or hydraulic design and use of associated tools (e.g. CFD)

• Experience with sensors, data acquisition systems, and PLCs

• Endorsements or certifications in applicable skill areas

Compensation & Benefits

Starting pay for the successful applicant will depend on a variety of job-related factors, which may include job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, market location, business needs, other compensation components, and/or market demands. The starting base salary range for this role is  $120k-$170K. This range may be modified in the future.

In addition to competitive salaries, we offer equity to new employees and incentive compensation  based on team performance.

We are proud to offer great benefits like 4 weeks of paid vacation, 2 weeks of paid sick leave, and trans-inclusive health insurance plans (along with dental, vision and life insurance). We want our team to live full lives outside of work.

Location 

Onsite, Alameda, CA. This role is full time at Natel’s Alameda, California office and facility, with flexibility to work from home intermittently. We have a dog-friendly workplace!

Occasional travel may be required for supplier site visits, field testing, or similar.

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.