Prototype Technician, Rotating Machinery
About The CompanyThe open ocean is Earth’s largest and most power-dense renewable energy resource. Panthalassa is harnessing that resource to generate the cheapest energy on the planet. Our mission is to provide abundant and affordable clean energy for everyone.Founded in 2016 and based in the Pacific Northwest, our team comes from diverse backgrounds in aerospace, naval architecture, marine operations, hardware, software, and research.About The JobOur core technology is the Node, a device that produces energy in the ocean’s harshest conditions for years at a time without human maintenance or intervention. The Node's turbo-generator system is the critical component which includes all components from the fluid interface through to encompassing electromechanical energy conversion, dynamic sealing, structural integration, and control interfaces.As the Technician – Turbines & Generators, you will support the manufacturing, machining, assembly, and integration of hydro turbines and generators. This is a roll-up-your-sleeves role in which you'll prototype, build, and troubleshoot alongside world-class engineers.This role sits at the intersection of precision machining, electromechanical assembly, and innovative fixture design, supporting prototype builds as well as low-volume production. You will work closely with generators, fluid dynamics, mechanical engineers and highly skilled electrical technicians to translate designs into robust, manufacturable hardware, ultimately ending in its deployment in the Node at sea.Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and thrive in a creative, scrappy, and collaborative environment in which the best ideas change the company’s direction on a regular basis. If you are an excellent technician, regardless of your background, we want you to apply.Our staff have worked at organizations such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, Boeing, Tesla, Apple, Virgin Orbit, Astra, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, New Relic, Bridgewater, Raytheon, Disney Imagineering, and the US Army and Air Force, as well as research universities, startups, and small companies across a range of industries. We are organized as a public benefit corporation and are backed by leading venture capital firms, private investors, philanthropic investors, and endowments.We strive to be the best engineering team on the planet, and we compensate our engineers accordingly.ResponsibilitiesAssemble hydro-turbine and generator subassemblies, precision rotating machinery, sealing interfaces, and related integration toolingSupport trial builds, teardowns, re-assembly and design iterationsPerform conventional machining operations viz. lathe, milling, drilling, grinding as neededInterpret and work from detailed manufacturing drawings and CAD modelsCollaborate with design engineers to suggest manufacturability improvementsDesign, fabricate, and validate custom assembly fixtures, jigs, and alignment toolsDevelop innovative fixture solutions Come up with the CAD models and drawings for the necessary fixtures and assembliesUtilize 3D printing for rapid prototyping of fixtures and mock-upsPerform dimensional inspections using Vernier Calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, Dial indicators, height gauges etc.Ensure compliance with tolerance stack-ups during assemblyDocument assembly procedures, inspection reports, and deviationsProvide feedback on assembly challenges, tolerance feasibility and fixture effectivenessSupport prototype iteration cycles and root-cause analysisContribute ideas to improve build repeatability, safety, and efficiencyRequired QualificationsDiploma / Associate degree in mechanical engineering, Tool & Die, Electromechanics, Manufacturing technologyExperience in turbo-machinery, motors, generators or rotating equipment prototype build and assemblyStrong hands-on experience with precision mechanical assembly, conventional machining processes etc.Working knowledge of GD&T and tolerance interpretationExperience using 3D printing for functional prototyping or toolingStrong written and verbal communication skillsAble to independently work on complex fixtures and assembly designsStrong problem-solving and hands-on troubleshooting abilityHigh technical curiosity and a passion for learningInnovative mindset, comfortable designing solutions when standard tools don’t existHigh attention to detail and craftsmanshipStrong organizational and interpersonal skillsDesired Qualifications10+ years in a similar rolePrior exposure to hydro turbines, electric motors, or generatorsExperience operating and supporting multi-axis CNC machines for shafts, turbine runners, fixtures, tooling etc.Familiarity with magnetic components and magnet safetyExperience assembling high-precision rotating machineryBasic understanding of hydro turbines and electrical machines (stators, windings, insulation systems)Experience working alongside R&D teams in iterative development environmentsExperience working on marine or offshore machineryFamiliarity with materials and coatings for submerged or corrosive environmentsExperience working on subsea bearings, or hydrodynamic bearings, or hydrostatic bearingsExperience working on laser cutting and laser welding processesExperience with instrumentation and controls (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, etc.)Familiarity with NX/TeamcenterRead and interpret GD&T per ASME Y14.5 standardsThe above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with only some of the desired skills and experience listed.Additional RequirementsTravel to vendors and test sites as neededIntermittently able to work longer hours and weekends to support critical needs. While we expect a lot of each other, we also offer a high degree of autonomy and work-life balance, including unlimited PTO and flexible working hours.Compensation And BenefitsIf hired for this full-time role, you will receive:Cash compensation of $45 - 55/hourEquity in the company. We’re all owners and if we’re successful, this equity should be far and away the most valuable component of your compensation.A benefits package that helps you take care of yourself and your family, including:Flexible paid time offHealth insurance (the company pays 100% of gold level PPO plan for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)Dental insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees and 100% for their partners and dependents)Vision insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)Disability insurance (the company pays 100% for a policy to provide long term financial support if you become disabled)Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FSARelocation assistance to help facilitate your move to Portland if needed.LocationThis is an on-site position. Our offices, lab, and shop are located in Portland, Oregon.