Mechatronics Engineer

SunDrive is an Australian solar technology company turning world‑leading science into real‑world impact. Founded in a Sydney garage in 2015 when our co‑founder Vince Allen paused his PhD to pursue a bold idea, we set out to make solar more powerful, affordable, and sustainable. Today, that same drive fuels a company operating at the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing and materials science. Our breakthrough solar cell technology replaces silver with industry‑first direct copper plating, swapping one of the most expensive materials in solar for something abundant, cost‑effective, and sustainable. We set a world record for solar cell efficiency in 2021 and built the world’s first fully automated copper‑plating line at our Kurnell facility, proving scalability. About the Role As a Mechatronics Engineer at SunDrive, you will design, develop, and integrate the software, firmware, and electronics that power our automated production and laboratory systems. This role is central to scaling SunDrive’s breakthrough copper‑plating technology from prototype to industrial deployment. Responsibilities Design and develop software, firmware, and custom electronic systems to automate and control production processes. Develop data‑acquisition tools and automated analysis systems for process monitoring and QA. Prototype and perform hardware‑in‑loop and software‑in‑loop testing to validate system behaviour. Troubleshoot software, firmware, and electrical issues across deployed systems. Integrate SunDrive‑developed systems with industrial automation equipment (remote and on‑site). Provide remote and on‑site support to customers and development partners (significant travel to China will be required in the next 4‑12 months). Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics, Software, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science. 3–4+ years of industry experience in embedded systems, automation, or mechatronics environments. Proficiency in C, C++, and Python. Strong experience with Linux, SBCs (Raspberry Pi, Intel NUC), and embedded RTOS (FreeRTOS/ESP32 ideal). Hands‑on systems integration experience involving custom PCBs, Linux SBCs, PLCs, and instrumentation. Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet, TCP/UDP, CAN, RS232/485). Experience with industrial automation, PLCs, and SCADA systems. PCB design experience (KiCad or Altium). Familiarity with Git, Docker, networking fundamentals, and standard dev tools. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to design and interpret experiments. Ability to speak Mandarin will be highly regarded (for partner collaboration). Benefits Meaningful work & ownership. Access to Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) – real ownership in SunDrive’s growth for permanent employees. Work on breakthrough solar technology with global impact. Be part of a tight, high‑performing team where your ideas matter. Company‑wide L&D fund for courses, coaching, and technical development. Dedicated weekly learning time. Up to two days of paid L&D leave per year. Four weeks annual leave + unlimited rollover. Ten days paid Personal/Carer’s Leave + unlimited rollover. Parental leave: 13 weeks primary / 6 weeks secondary caregiver leave; paid antenatal leave and support for early arrivals, surrogacy, and return‑to‑work planning. Two days paid Compassionate Leave per occasion. Free, confidential EAP support for employees and immediate family. EV‑only novated leasing (FBT‑compliant). Weekly transport allowance (tolls and public transport) up to $45. Weekly catered lunch, snacks, and drinks onsite. Additional Information SunDriveSolar Pty Ltd is an Equal Opportunity/affirmative action employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and provide reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need accommodation at any point during the interview process. This role requires full working rights in Australia. Unfortunately, SunDrive is not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr