Who We Are Looking For: Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Mechanical Engineer II to help take next-generation processing equipment from concept to deployment. In this role, you will design, build, test, validate, and commission complex mechanical systems that support high-temperature electrolysis, furnace technologies, and innovative electrochemical and thermal processes.
This is a hands-on engineering role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and is excited by the challenge of turning ambitious concepts into reliable, deployed hardware. You will work on first-of-a-kind equipment that combines mechanical, thermal, vacuum, and process engineering to solve complex challenges at the forefront of industrial decarbonization, advanced manufacturing, and critical metals production.
Key Responsibilities:- Own mechanical systems and equipment from early concept development through design, fabrication, testing, commissioning, and deployment.
- Design and develop novel processing equipment for high-temperature electrolysis, furnace systems, and critical metals production technologies.
- Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and technical documentation using SolidWorks to support fabrication, procurement, assembly, installation, and commissioning.
- Select and specify critical mechanical components and mechanisms, including pumps, bearings, lead screws, actuators, seals, thermal components, fixtures, and industrial hardware based on engineering analysis and test data.
- Develop and execute verification and validation plans for components, subsystems, and integrated equipment to prove performance, reliability, and readiness for deployment.
- Use Design of Experiments, structured testing, and data analysis to validate new concepts, troubleshoot equipment performance, and make sound engineering decisions.
- Build, assemble, modify, and commission mechanical tooling, fixtures, prototypes, and pilot-scale equipment in hands-on lab, R&D, and production environments.
- Apply V-Model system development principles to connect requirements, system architecture, detailed design, integration, testing, validation, and deployment.
- Investigate mechanical, thermal, vacuum, and process-related issues, identify root causes, and implement practical design improvements that move technology forward.
- Drive rapid design-build-test iterations with urgency while maintaining sound engineering judgment, safety, and documentation discipline.
Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
- 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience designing, building, testing, and commissioning complex equipment, industrial systems, process hardware, or R&D systems.
- Familiarity with V-Model (V-Diagram) based system development methodologies
- Strong SolidWorks experience, including part design, assemblies, detailed drawings, and design documentation for fabrication and assembly.
- Experience developing and executing test plans for system, subsystem, or component verification and validation.
- Experience selecting and integrating mechanical components such as pumps, actuators, bearings, lead screws, seals, fasteners, thermal systems, and industrial hardware.
- Hands-on experience with mechanical tooling, fixtures, prototype assembly, equipment troubleshooting, and commissioning in a lab, pilot, manufacturing, or industrial environment.
- Able to wear a respirator
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs
We offer a competitive compensation package that is based on expertise. We also offer the following benefits:This pay range reflects best estimate for the total cash compensation which includes salary + discretionary bonus for this role. Total package may vary based on experience and qualifications.
Pay Range: $90,000- $120,000 total cash compensation plus equity
- Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee.
- Stock Options: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company.
- Time Off: Unlimited PTO.
- Learning: Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
