Lead Systems Engineer
Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3 system that captures solar energy, stores it as heat, and generates electricity on demand. Founded in 2023 and backed by leading investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Sam Altman, and Felicis, we're committed to providing clean, modular, and scalable power that meets the rapidly growing demands of AI infrastructure. Our mission is to make sustainable renewable energy always available and almost free, enabling technological advancement while protecting our planet.
We are seeking an experienced Lead Systems Engineer to drive the design, integration, testing, and reliability of our P3 thermal energy storage systems. This role is critical to scaling our breakthrough technology from prototype to commercial deployment, ensuring our systems meet the demanding requirements of AI infrastructure and industrial applications.
This position is based in Miami, FL. If selected, relocation to Miami, FL is required. Exowatt provides relocation assistance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end systems architecture for P3 thermal energy storage and dispatch systems
- Define system requirements, interfaces, and integration strategies across thermal storage, power conversion, and control subsystems
- Develop comprehensive system specifications that balance performance, cost, reliability, and manufacturability
- Drive design optimization for modular, scalable deployment across diverse industrial applications
- Collaborate with thermal, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure cohesive system design
- Develop and execute comprehensive test strategies for thermal energy storage systems, including component, subsystem, and full-system validation
- Design and oversee thermal cycling, performance characterization, and endurance testing protocols
- Establish test procedures for 24-hour energy dispatch cycles under various load conditions
- Lead failure mode analysis and accelerated life testing programs
- Manage field testing and pilot deployment validation to ensure real-world performance meets specifications
- Establish reliability targets and design systems for 30-year operational lifespan with minimal maintenance
- Implement predictive maintenance strategies and condition monitoring systems
- Develop fault detection, isolation, and recovery protocols for autonomous operation
- Lead root cause analysis for system failures and implement corrective actions
- Create reliability models and conduct statistical analysis of system performance data
- Mentor and guide systems engineering team members
- Interface with external partners, suppliers, and customers on technical requirements
- Present technical reviews to executive leadership and stakeholders
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and best practices adoption
- Support business development with technical assessments and proposals
Required Qualifications
Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field8+ years of experience in complex systems engineering, preferably in energy, thermal systems, or industrial equipment3+ years of technical leadership experience with cross-functional teamsProven experience with thermal energy systems, heat transfer, and thermodynamicsStrong background in systems integration, testing, and validation methodologiesExperience with reliability engineering, FMEA, and statistical analysisProficiency in system modeling tools (MATLAB / Simulink, Python, or similar)Knowledge of industrial control systems and power electronicsUnderstanding of manufacturing processes and design for manufacturabilityDemonstrated ability to lead technical teams and drive complex projects to completionExcellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to technical and non-technical audiencesStrong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced startup environmentExperience working with regulatory standards and certification processesPreferred Qualifications
PhD in relevant engineering disciplineExperience with renewable energy systems, energy storage, or power generation equipmentBackground in AI / data center infrastructure and high-availability systemsExperience with modular system design and factory-built equipmentKnowledge of thermal storage technologies and phase change materialsProfessional Engineering (PE) licenseExperience with agile development methodologies and startup environments180,000 - $215,000 a year
Competitive salary and equity options.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
A dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Opportunities for professional growth and development in a rapidly evolving industry.
Relocation assistance.