Key Interactions:
The Manufacturing/NPI Engineer will collaborate closely with the Design Engineering team and Product Management, while interfacing externally with suppliers and Contract Manufacturers to ensure design-for-manufacturability.
Job Summary:
The Manufacturing/NPI Engineer plays a crucial role in bridging product design with manufacturing capabilities for Exowatt's P3 flagship product. This position focuses on designing components and tooling for manufacturability across our key subsystems: optical collector, thermal energy storage solution, and high-temperature engine.
This person will:
- Lead design for manufacturing (DFM and DFA) initiatives using advanced CAD software to ensure product designs are optimized for mass production
- Create detailed 3D models and manufacturing drawings for tooling, fixtures, and production components
- Collaborate with design engineers to refine product designs for improved manufacturability, cost reduction and better quality.
- Develop comprehensive technical documentation including design specifications, BOMs, and assembly instructions
- Implement design solutions that streamline assembly processes and reduce manufacturing complexity
- Partner with suppliers to ensure tooling designs meet specifications and quality requirements
- Drive continuous design improvements through systematic testing and validation
Behavioral Competencies:
- Proactively identifies design challenges and develops creative solutions
- Consistently achieves project milestones while maintaining technical excellence
- Quickly establishes collaborative relationships across engineering and manufacturing teams
- Conducts thorough research on advanced manufacturing technologies and design techniques
- Builds effective networks with technical experts both internally and externally
- Demonstrates strong understanding of design-for-manufacturing principles
Technical Competencies:
- Educational Level: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field
- Advanced proficiency with 3D CAD software (eg, SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar) - REQUIRED
- Experience with GD&T and designing precision components for manufacturability
- Strong background in 3D modeling, tolerance analysis, and design validation
- Understanding of DFM/DFA principles and application to complex mechanical systems
- Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and tooling design
- Experience with simulation tools for evaluating design performance
- Excellent technical problem-solving and communication skills
- Previous work experience: 3+ years in product design, tooling design, or manufacturing engineering. Experience in thermal systems, optical components, or precision mechanical design is highly desirable.
- Ability to physically fulfill job responsibilities: 30%+ domestic and international travel required for supplier collaboration and production support.
- Previous experience in renewable energy, thermal systems, or similar industries is a plus
(Relocation assistance will be provided)