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Mechatronics Engineer

El Segundo, CA

About Us

At Arbor Energy & Resources Corporation ("Arbor Energy"), we’re creating technology to power our lives while protecting the planet that sustains them.  Our advanced power systems deliver clean, reliable baseload electricity with zero operating emissions—modular, fuel-flexible, and engineered for the realities of today’s energy demand. At the core is a supercritical CO₂ turbine with integrated carbon capture, designed to bring carbon-neutral power online quickly at meaningful scale. 

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys looking to the stars, we’re applying that expertise here at home to deliver dependable, emission-free baseload power and a future of lasting abundance.  

If you share our values and are drawn to rigorous work with lasting impact, we’d love to learn more about you. Come build what the future will run on.

Steward our planet: We think on the scale of ecosystems, designing solutions with impact measured in CO₂ reduction, biodiversity preserved, and human quality of life.

Lead with Love: We choose kindness and empathy in all we do. When faced with challenges, we act with care, knowing that it’s always the right time to be kind.

Explore the Uncharted: Bold innovation is in our DNA. We embrace new ideas and unconventional paths to build a future of abundance.

Role Overview

We’re seeking a Mechatronics Engineer to drive the design, development, and optimization of high-pressure solids feed and removal systems—critical systems enabling reliable biomass delivery and ash management in our novel high-pressure gasification platform for carbon-negative power cycles. 

In this role, you’ll own end-to-end development of robust, high-reliability solids handling hardware in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment. From conceptual design and mechatronic integration through prototyping, testing, rapid iteration, and validation, you’ll deliver solutions that ensure continuous, clog-free operation under extreme pressure and temperature conditions. 

You’ll collaborate closely with gasification, test, and controls engineers, providing technical expertise on critical decisions to accelerate progress while maximizing system uptime, flexibility, and overall carbon impact.  

Responsibilities

  • Own the design, analysis, and integration of high-pressure solids feed (e.g., lock hoppers, screw feeders) and removal (e.g., ash extraction, filtration) systems
  • Develop mechatronic solutions combining mechanical design, actuation, sensing, and control logic for reliable solids transport in harsh environments
  • Perform sizing calculations, 3D modeling, structural/FEA analysis, and flow modeling for solids handling components and assemblies
  • Plan, execute, and analyze solids flow tests and integrated high-pressure test campaigns, driving rapid learning and iteration
  • Lead hardware development cycles—from detailed design and procurement through manufacturing, assembly, commissioning, and performance upgrades
  • Leverage additive manufacturing, modern actuators/sensors, and automation tools to accelerate innovation and improve system robustness
  • Propose and implement continuous improvements to eliminate bottlenecks, enhance safety, and increase operational reliability 

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience designing, building, and testing solids handling, feeding, or conveyance systems (preferably under high pressure/temperature)
  • Strong expertise in mechanical design, actuation, sensing, controls integration, and materials selection for abrasive/corrosive environments
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD (SolidWorks/NX preferred), FEA, and GD&T; experience generating fabrication drawings and BOMs
  • Proven ability to own technical development of complex hardware from concept through validation in fast-paced settings
  • Demonstrated track record of delivering reliable mechatronic systems with minimal downtime
  • Curious, inventive, and entrepreneurial mindset—thrives in ambiguity and drives practical solutions forward  

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering
  • Experience with high-pressure systems in rocket propulsion, gasifiers, pneumatic conveying, lock hopper systems, or similar
  • Hands-on experience integrating PLCs, sensors, and control loops for automation
  • Proficiency in programming/scripting for data analysis, automation, or control (Python, MATLAB, Ladder Logic, etc.)
  • Background in startup or agile hardware development environments  

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pre-IPO stock options
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
  • Basic life insurance fully covered
  • Health savings account (HSA) with matching
  • Flexible savings account (FSA)
  • Unlimited PTO  
  • 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day!  
  • 401(k)
  • Commuter benefits
  • Annual learning and development stipend
  • And more!

Base Pay: $135,000 - $150,000 USD/year. The salary is subject to the applicant's skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

Our Commitment

Arbor Energy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Solving global energy challenges requires a wide range of perspectives and experiences, and we are committed to building a team that reflects the world we serve.

Our hiring process is designed to be accessible, fair, and focused on the work that matters most for this role. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process and employment—please let us know if you need one.

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