Senior R&D Software Developer Jobs in Houston, TX

Quaise Energy is unlocking Earth's deep heat to deliver clean, reliable, baseload energy at scale – almost anywhere in the world. As both a technology innovator and project developer, Quaise builds and operates solutions that harness superhot geothermal energy far below the surface, enabling power generation that can rival the output of today's most efficient fossil fuel and nuclear plants. Leveraging millimeter wave drilling, developed after more than a decade of research at MIT, Quaise's mission is to make superhot geothermal a backbone of the modern energy system, offering affordable, zero-carbon power and true energy independence for communities and nations everywhere.

Quaise is seeking an experienced and hands-on Senior Mechanical CAD Designer to support the design, development, and testing of millimeter wave drilling technologies. This role works closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop detailed mechanical designs, prototype assemblies, and production-ready documentation for complex laboratory and field systems.

The Senior Mechanical CAD Designer will independently own mechanical assemblies and CAD deliverables while supporting prototype integration, manufacturability, fabrication coordination, and testing activities. This individual will serve as a key technical contributor within the design organization and play an important role in improving design quality, assembly efficiency, and overall system execution in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Essential functions (Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.)

• Create, maintain, and release detailed 3D models, assemblies, fabrication drawings, and engineering documentation using CAD software.
• Independently own and manage mechanical design packages and assembly-level CAD work for prototype and development systems.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, RF, and test engineers to support integration of mechanical components within larger system architectures.
• Evaluate designs for manufacturability, assembly efficiency, tolerance accumulation, serviceability, and fabrication feasibility.
• Support prototype assembly, troubleshooting, fit-up verification, and testing activities in both laboratory and field environments.
• Coordinate with suppliers, machine shops, fabrication vendors, and internal teams to support procurement and manufacturing activities.
• Assist with development and maintenance of CAD standards, drawing quality, BOM structure, and engineering documentation processes.
• Identify design issues proactively and recommend practical solutions to improve reliability, manufacturability, and assembly efficiency.
• Support engineering teams with fixture design, prototype modifications, and implementation of engineering changes.
• Provide guidance and technical support to junior designers and engineering support personnel as needed.
• Participate in occasional field visits to support prototype deployment, testing, and evaluation activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Advanced proficiency with PTC Creo or equivalent 3D CAD software required. Experience with Windchill or PLM systems preferred.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, fabrication methods, machining processes, and mechanical assemblies.
• Working knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up analysis, and engineering drawing standards.
• Experience supporting prototype development and integration in industrial, energy, manufacturing, or R&D environments.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on mindset.
• Ability to balance design intent with manufacturing realities and field usability considerations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary technical teams.
• Strong communication skills and ability to interact professionally with engineers, technicians, suppliers, and vendors.

Supervisory responsibilities

• This role does not include formal people-management responsibilities.

Education and Experience

• Associate's degree or formal technical training in Drafting, Mechanical Design, Mechanical Technology, or a related technical field required. Equivalent practical experience may also be considered.
• 5-7 years of related experience in mechanical CAD design, product development, prototype systems, or industrial mechanical design environments required.
• Experience supporting fabrication, machining, prototype assembly, or testing activities strongly preferred.
• Experience with industrial mechanical systems, pressure systems, drilling technologies, or complex electromechanical assemblies is preferred.
• Experience working within prototype-heavy or R&D-focused organizations is highly preferred.

Physical requirements

• The employee is regularly required to stand, sit, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, as well as use hands to feel, reach, grasp, handle, or operate objects, tools and/or controls.
• The employee must be able to lift, push, pull, transfer, or move items up 20 pounds at times for departmental needs.
• Ability to move from one worksite to another or light travel to various job sites and locations to complete tasks.
• The vision requirement includes reviewing written and electronic materials in digital and physical format.