Mechanical Test Engineer

The Mechanical Test Engineer supports the design, execution, and analysis of mechanical tests that validate the strength, durability, and performance of solar tracker and mounting system components. Working as part of a cross-functional test and reliability team, this role offers hands-on experience with structural testing, data acquisition, and mechanical design validation in the fast-growing utility-scale solar industry. The position provides an opportunity to contribute directly to renewable energy solutions while developing technical skills and advancing within a growing organization.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute mechanical tests to validate the strength, durability, and performance of solar tracker and mounting system components.
• Support the development and implementation of structural load and fatigue testing programs for large mechanical assemblies.
• Use SolidWorks to design and refine test fixtures that accurately replicate operating conditions and constraints.
• Set up, operate, and monitor mechanical test equipment, including hydraulic test systems and dynamometers, to collect reliable test data.
• Install and use strain gauges, torque wrenches, calipers, and related measurement tools to capture precise test measurements.
• Assist in the fabrication and preparation of test components, including cutting and shaping metal using band saws and other fabrication equipment.
• Use hand and power tools to assemble, adjust, and disassemble large test assemblies and fixtures safely and efficiently.
• Collect, organize, and analyze test data to assess component performance and identify potential design or reliability issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional test, reliability, and design teams to communicate test results and support mechanical design validation.
• Maintain a safe, organized test environment by following established procedures and handling heavy components and tools correctly.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of test methods, fixtures, and processes to increase accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency.

• Experience performing mechanical load testing and fatigue testing on structural or large mechanical components.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks for designing and modifying mechanical test fixtures.
• Hands-on experience using hand and power tools for assembling and working with large mechanical assemblies.
• Ability to safely lift and handle components weighing approximately 40 to 50 pounds.
• Experience using equipment such as band saws or similar tools for fabrication and cutting of metal components.
• Familiarity with torque wrenches, calipers, and strain gauges for measurement and data collection during testing.
• Experience working with hydraulic test systems and related mechanical test equipment.
• Comfort working with metals such as steel in a fabrication and testing environment.

• Experience with dynamometers or similar test equipment for measuring mechanical performance.
• Background in prototype fabrication or assembly for mechanical or structural systems.
• Interest in mechanical design validation and collaboration with design teams in a product development environment.
• Motivation to grow within a leading renewable energy organization and potentially transition into future roles, including design-focused positions.
• Enthusiasm for contributing to the utility-scale solar and renewable energy industry.

This is an onsite role based in a hands-on mechanical test and fabrication environment, working closely with a cross-functional test and reliability team. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the option to start earlier by approximately 30 to 45 minutes once fully up to speed. The role involves regular use of hand and power tools, band saws, metal fabrication equipment, hydraulic test systems, dynamometers, and precision measurement tools such as torque wrenches, calipers, and strain gauges. Work is primarily conducted around large metal and steel assemblies, test fixtures, and structural components, requiring frequent standing, manual handling of parts weighing 40 to 50 pounds, and careful adherence to safety procedures. The environment supports professional growth within a leader in the solar tracker and renewable energy space, offering exposure to advanced testing technologies and opportunities to develop toward future roles, including mechanical design.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fremont, CA.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Fremont,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 9, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $40 - $50