Mechanical Design Engineer (Turbomachinery)
El Segundo, CA
Engineering (Turbomachinery) /
Full Time (Salaried) /
On-site
We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to design and analysis of rotors and casings for turbomachinery in a supercritical CO₂-based power cycle. This role involves conceptual design, assembly architecture selection, material selection, and structural analysis, ensuring high-performance, reliable operation under demanding conditions. The ideal candidate has expertise in bolted joint and seal design, finite element analysis (FEA), and thermomechanical analysis, with preferred experience in creep analysis and rotordynamics.
Arbor is a team of engineers, scientists, and builders focused on creating the next generation of clean energy systems. Our work combines high-efficiency turbomachinery, advanced combustion, and modular design to deliver zero-emission, fuel-flexible power at scale. We’ve drawn from aerospace and industrial expertise to meet the challenge of surging electricity demand—and to offer a solution that installs faster, performs better, and costs less than conventional alternatives. We’re designing energy systems that can evolve with the world’s needs.
Responsibilities
- Design and optimize rotors and/or casings for high-performance turbomachinery using NX.
- Select assembly architectures and materials to meet performance and reliability requirements.
- Size and analyze bolted joints, seals, and piping flanges for structural integrity.
- Perform static and transient thermomechanical analysis using ANSYS.
- Conduct modal analysis of both stationary and rotating systems to evaluate dynamic behavior.
- Perform thermal analysis to assess the effects of temperature gradients and thermal expansion.
- Ensure designs meet operational, thermal, and mechanical performance requirements.
- Collaborate with combustion and systems teams.
- Support manufacturing, assembly, and testing efforts to validate designs.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related Engineering field.
- 3+ years of experience in turbomachinery design or mechanical system engineering.
- Proficiency in ANSYS FEM software for stress, thermal, and thermomechanical analysis.
- Strong understanding of bolted joint, seal, and flange design.
- Experience with static, transient, and thermal structural analysis of rotating systems.
- Familiarity with materials selection for high-stress and high-temperature applications.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in creep analysis for high-temperature applications.
- Knowledge of rotordynamics and vibration analysis of rotating machinery.
- Familiarity with bearing design, damping, and balancing of rotating components.
- Experience working with supercritical CO₂ or high-density working fluids.
- Proficiency in NX CAD software
- Experience in startup or R&D environments.
Benefits
- 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!
$130,000 - $150,000 a year
The salary is subject to the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and experience.
Arbor 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.