Job Description:
Job Title: Manager, Mechanical Engineering (China)
Company: NextPower
Location: Suzhou / Wuxi, China
Reports To: Director, Mechanical Engineering
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Position Summary
NextPower is seeking a Manager, Mechanical Engineering to lead and expand our regional mechanical engineering team in China. This role is responsible for building and managing a high-performing team to support regional activities focused on steel frame systems, including research & development, validation, and testing. The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with leadership capability and experience in scaling engineering teams.
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Key Responsibilities
Establish, lead, and grow the regional Mechanical Engineering team to support business objectives in China and APAC
Drive design, development, and optimization of steel frame structures and related mechanical systems
Oversee R&D initiatives, including concept development, prototyping, and design validation
Lead testing activities, ensuring products meet performance, quality, and regulatory standards
Collaborate closely with global engineering teams to align on design standards, best practices, and innovation strategies
Support localization efforts, adapting global designs to meet regional requirements and manufacturing capabilities
Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure successful execution
Partner with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, supply chain, and quality to ensure seamless product development and launch
Recruit, mentor, and develop engineering talent, fostering a strong team culture and technical excellence
Stay current on industry trends, materials, and technologies related to steel structures and mechanical systems
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Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
8–12+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a strong focus on structural or steel frame design
Proven leadership experience, including hiring and developing engineering teams
Strong background in R&D and product testing/validation
Experience working in a global organization with cross-regional collaboration
Familiarity with relevant engineering tools (e.g., CAD, FEA/structural analysis software)
Knowledge of Chinese and international engineering standards and regulations
Excellent communication skills in both Mandarin and English
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Preferred Qualifications
Experience in industries such as renewable energy, construction systems, or industrial equipment
Demonstrated success in scaling teams or establishing new engineering functions
Strong problem-solving mindset with a hands-on approach
Experience with solar tracker systems, module frames, or similar structures
Skilled in working in or managing operations in China
Proficient in speaking English
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What Success Looks Like
A fully staffed and high-performing regional mechanical engineering team
Successful execution of R&D and testing programs for steel frame products
Strong alignment and collaboration with global engineering leadership
Delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, and regionally optimized solutions
At Nextpower, we are driving the global energy transition with an integrated clean energy technology platform that combines intelligent structural, electrical, and digital solutions for utility-scale power plants. Our comprehensive portfolio enables faster project delivery, higher performance, and greater reliability, helping our customers capture the full value of solar power. Our talented worldwide teams are redefining how solar power plants are designed, built, and operated every day with smart technology, data-driven insights, and advanced automation. Together, we’re building the foundation for the world’s next generation of clean energy infrastructure.
We are Nextpower