Structural Engineer I

Location: Nashville, TN

• Reporting: Manager of Structural Engineering, Fremont, CA 
• Work Type: Hybrid - 3 days in office, 2 days remote 
• Sponsorship Opportunity: Not available

Introduction

Nextracker is the leading provider of intelligent, integrated solar tracker and software solutions used in utility-scale and ground-mounted distributed generation solar projects around the world. Nextracker has been the number one global market-share solar tracker company with an average market share of 30% for seven years and counting, according to global research firms Wood Mackenzie and IHS Markit. 

Nextracker pioneered smart solar tracking technology and continues to lead the industry with our design, engineering and software innovation. Our robust portfolio of intellectual property protects both our hardware and software products, and includes 132 mechanical patents, 52 electronics & controls patents, and 171 software-driven yield improvement patents. 

We are a diverse group of technology innovators and clean energy activators. We are collaborative team players. We do the right thing. We are accountable and deliver results. We believe in equity and inclusion. We are committed to sustainability, decarbonization and a better tomorrow. At Nextracker, we are on a mission to be the most trusted and valued renewable energy company by delivering intelligent, reliable, and productive solar power. 

About The Role

Nextracker is seeking a Structural Engineer I to join our Project Engineering Team in Nashville, TN office supporting key accounts across the U.S. This position will be responsible for managing day-to-day structural engineering tasks for utility-scale PV projects from the development phase through construction. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, wind load calculations, steel design and component sizing, foundation sizing, and the preparation of structural documentation to support project quoting and engineering packages. The role will involve close coordination with cross-functional teams in the U.S., India, and other global offices including Sales, Project Management, mechanical, and R&D.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce structural design calculations for solar tracker racking systems. 
• Support project development by reviewing site conditions, performing preliminary structural calculations, and contributing to cost estimations. 
• Conduct structural analyses for wind, seismic, and foundation loads; prepare structural calculation packages and sign/seal documents when required. 
• Provide construction support, including responding to RFIs (Requests for Information) and reviewing submittals. 
• Develop in-depth knowledge of Nextracker products to inform design and engineering decisions. 
• Collaborate with cross-regional structural/civil engineering teams to maintain and improve design standards, specifications, templates, and tools. 
• Manage engineering schedules and review deliverables from external structural and civil consultants. 
• Contribute to the growth of Nextracker’s Design Services team by supporting process improvement and team development efforts. 

Required Skills/ Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Civil Engineering (or equivalent). 
• Minimum 3 years of experience in structural engineering, ideally within the EPC solar industry. 
• Hands-on experience in structural analysis and design, including dead, live, snow, wind, and seismic loads, design of steel and concrete structures, and development of construction documents. 
• Proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel), AutoCAD, and structural analysis tools, such as Lpile, Allpile or equivalent. 
• Proficiency in finite element analysis software (RISA 3D, STAAD, or equivalent). 
• Proficiency in advanced modal and dynamic analysis is a big plus. 
• Strong knowledge of engineering standards, codes, and other applicable state and federal guidelines, including but not limited to IBC, ASCE, ASTM, AISC, AISI and ACI. 
• Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred, or ability to obtain licensure in a reasonable timeframe. 
• Team-oriented and self-driven professional with excellent communication and collaboration skills. 
• Passion for renewable energy and solar power is a plus.