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Research and Development Engineer – Renewable and Energy Systems

Minneapolis, MN | Direct Hire | $150,000–$180,000

Konik is partnering with an innovative cleantech company seeking to add multiple R&D Engineers to support the continued development of advanced renewable and sustainable mechanical technologies. This organization is helping redefine energy infrastructure through proprietary mechanical technology and advanced thermal systems designed to reduce emissions across commercial and industrial facilities.

This is a highly hands-on engineering role blending research, product development, prototyping, testing, modeling, and field support. The ideal candidate is naturally curious, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is comfortable moving between design work, field environments, vendor coordination, and rapid prototyping efforts.

Research and Development Engineer Responsibilities

• Lead and support R&D initiatives focused on thermal systems, controls, mechanical components, and related energy technologies
• Design, prototype, test, and refine mechanical systems, instrumentation, tools, and equipment for real-world field applications
• Develop structured test plans, instrumentation strategies, and data collection methodologies to validate system performance and design assumptions
• Perform modeling and analysis related to thermal, fluid, mechanical, and energy system performance
• Collaborate closely with engineering, geology, field operations, and leadership teams to support ongoing product and technology development
• Support field installations, commissioning activities, troubleshooting efforts, and system performance evaluations
• Coordinate with external machining, fabrication, and prototyping vendors to support development efforts
• Maintain technical documentation including research findings, test results, engineering recommendations, and design revisions
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to commercialization, manufacturability, scalability, and operational performance
• Participate in technical discussions, presentations, and cross-functional problem-solving initiatives

Research and Development Engineer Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Energy Systems, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related technical field
• 5–10+ years of hands-on engineering, R&D, product development, or prototyping experience
• Strong CAD and design experience using SolidWorks or similar platforms
• Experience with modeling and data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or related environments
• Strong hands-on prototyping, testing, troubleshooting, and experimental engineering capabilities
• Ability to move projects from concept through prototype and toward commercialization
• Comfortable working in startup-style, fast-paced, highly collaborative technical environments
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills
• Ability to work both independently and cross-functionally across technical disciplines

Preferred Experience

• HVAC equipment, geothermal or thermal systems, or renewable energy technologies
• Niagara controls or building automation systems exposure
• Energy modeling tools such as EnergyPlus
• Instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition systems, and field testing environments
• Vendor management and prototype sourcing coordination
• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or progress toward licensure
• Experience leading or mentoring engineering teams and technical initiatives

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $150,000–$180,000 depending on experience
• Bonus potential and equity/stock option eligibility
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Hybrid work flexibility
• PTO and paid holidays
• Professional development and growth opportunities
• Collaborative engineering-focused culture with strong innovation emphasis

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Konik is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other protected class status.
Konik has been creating impactful relationships between technical talent and employers for more than 50 years. Konik has specialized in placing professional, qualified personnel in Minnesota and western Wisconsin businesses since its inception, and maintains a strong commitment to customer service.

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