RD Engineer

Research and Development Engineer – Renewable and Energy Systems Location: Minneapolis, MN | Direct Hire | Salary Range: $150,000–$180,000 Konik is partnering with an innovative cleantech company seeking to add multiple R&D Engineers to support the continued development of advanced renewable and sustainable mechanical technologies. This organization is helping redefine energy infrastructure through proprietary mechanical technology and advanced thermal systems designed to reduce emissions across commercial and industrial facilities. This is a highly hands‑on engineering role blending research, product development, prototyping, testing, modeling, and field support. The ideal candidate is naturally curious, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is comfortable moving between design work, field environments, vendor coordination, and rapid prototyping efforts. Research and Development Engineer Responsibilities Lead and support R&D initiatives focused on thermal systems, controls, mechanical components and related energy technologies Design, prototype, test, and refine mechanical systems, instrumentation, tools and equipment for real‑world field applications Develop structured test plans, instrumentation strategies and data‑collection methodologies to validate system performance and design assumptions Perform modeling and analysis related to thermal, fluid, mechanical and energy system performance Collaborate closely with engineering, geology, field operations and leadership teams to support ongoing product and technology development Support field installations, commissioning activities, troubleshooting efforts and system performance evaluations Coordinate with external machining, fabrication and prototyping vendors to support development efforts Maintain technical documentation including research findings, test results, engineering recommendations and design revisions Support continuous improvement efforts related to commercialization, manufacturability, scalability and operational performance Participate in technical discussions, presentations and cross‑functional problem‑solving initiatives Research and Development Engineer Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Energy Systems, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or related technical field 5–10+ years of hands‑on engineering, R&D, product development or prototyping experience Strong CAD and design experience using SolidWorks or similar platforms Experience with modeling and data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python or related environments Strong hands‑on prototyping, testing, troubleshooting and experimental engineering capabilities Ability to move projects from concept through prototype and toward commercialization Comfortable working in startup‑style, fast‑paced, highly collaborative technical environments Strong problem‑solving, analytical and organizational skills Ability to work both independently and cross‑functionally across technical disciplines Preferred Experience HVAC equipment, geothermal or thermal systems or renewable energy technologies Niagara controls or building automation systems exposure Energy modeling tools such as EnergyPlus Instrumentation, sensors, data‑acquisition systems and field testing environments Vendor management and prototype sourcing coordination Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or progress toward licensure Experience leading or mentoring engineering teams and technical initiatives Compensation & Benefits Base salary: $150,000–$180,000 depending on experience Bonus potential and equity/stock option eligibility Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits Hybrid work flexibility PTO and paid holidays Professional development and growth opportunities Collaborative engineering‑focused culture with strong innovation emphasis Konik is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other protected class status. #J-18808-Ljbffr