Civil Engineer

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 currently seeking an experienced Civil Engineer to lead the implementation and development of topography aware platform to optimize the design, construction, and performance of our solar energy projects. In this role, you will be responsible for incorporating site terrain into design through processing of civil grading design, foundation structural design, hydrology models, and product mechanical capabilities. Your tasks will include generating grading reports, point file analysis, foundation mapping, and managing civil RFIs from our customers. Effective communication, collaboration, and providing valuable feedback will be vital in serving our customers and enhancing our product line. 

This position can be based remotely and 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.

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of a topography aware platform that integrates GIS (Geographic Information System) data, geospatial analysis, and other relevant technologies to optimize solar project site selection, design, and construction. 
• Serve as the source of truth for civil design for the product and projects. 
• Perform site-specific net-slope analysis to accurately determine the correct product to use for each post. 
• Perform grading analyses using GIS software and Civil 3D based on site topography data to provide civil quantity estimates for construction financial modeling. 
• Provide technical expertise during the construction phase, overseeing civil engineering aspects, ensuring quality control, and resolving any on-site issues throughout install.  
• Perform value engineering exercises to minimize project costs while identifying and proactively addressing potential risks and challenges related to site conditions through effective mitigation strategies. 
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation related to project design, development, and construction. 
• Collaborate with engineers to update product configurations, drafting standards, and potentially develop automation procedures. 
• Assess site information and design inputs to select suitable product types based on site conditions. 
• Conduct thorough analysis to determine optimal foundation locations for solar panel arrays, considering factors such as soil stability, load-bearing capacity, and geological conditions. 
• Work with customers to design the tracker to meet flood and scour requirements. 
• Contribute to product development, ensuring a thorough understanding of the product.
• Support construction by managing Requests for Information (RFIs) and submittals. 
• Supervise and coordinate with third-party vendors. 
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration with internal teams, contractors, and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. 

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related field. 
• Proven experience (3+ years) as a Civil Engineer, preferably in utility-scale solar tracker projects or similar renewable energy systems. 
• Strong knowledge of structural engineering principles, with a focus on solar tracker design. 
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS software, and MATLAB. 
• Familiarity with topography analysis, hydrology analysis, and value engineering. 
• Excellent project management skills, including task prioritization, resource management, and risk mitigation. 
• In-depth knowledge of solar development, site design principles, grading, erosion control, and stormwater management. 
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities with attention to detail. 
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. 

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.

Don't meet every qualification listed in the job posting above? Apply anyways! Nevados is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to building a more inclusive ecosystem that integrates women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups into the cleantech sector and the broader tech industry. We strongly encourage applications from qualified individuals, even if your past experience doesn't align perfectly. You might be a fit for this role or another open position.

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: The final step before an offer involves contacting your provided professional references to verify your qualifications and past performance.

We look forward to getting to know you better and exploring the possibility of you joining our team!