There’s the cushy comfort of the mundane; then, there’s the thrill of pioneering work. Being here is the latter.
It started with our first Zero S, shipped in 2010 – a bold step into the future of electric mobility. Since then, we’ve been at the forefront of the electric vehicle movement, delivering award-winning motorcycles and electrifying sport and utility vehicles for leading OEMs. With cutting-edge technology and relentless craftsmanship, we push the boundaries of performance and sustainability, making every ride more thrilling and the world a little more sustainable.
We’ve only scratched the surface. Join us in leading the revolution of electric mobility.
Zero Motorcycles is seeking an experienced Staff Electrical Engineer to contribute to the development of our powertrain electrical hardware and systems. The successful candidate will join a seasoned electric powertrain design team and will have the opportunity for significant contribution to the success of designs, team goals, and company goals. The scope of this role includes embedded electronics design, Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS) development, power electronics design, and powertrain system integration. In addition to development work, this role will support root cause and corrective action (RCCA) activities in support of development, field, and manufacturing issues. This is a hands-on role located at our R&D facility in Scotts Valley, CA, reporting to the manager of Powertrain Systems Engineering.
You will support the development of our powertrains through:
Requirements definition, CAD design, simulation and analysis, component selection, bring-up, and testing, and supplier support for:
Embedded hardware design (ECUs, battery management systems);
Electrical Wiring Interconnect Systems (EWIS) development ;
Power electronics (DC-DC converters, chargers, motor controllers).
System level architecture design, testing, and documentation development.
Participation in design reviews, root cause and corrective action (rcca) activities, and test report reviews.
The creation and maintenance of design documentation in accordance with internal best practices.
Participation in long-term powertrain architecture planning.
You will support other teams in their responsibilities through:
Close collaboration with development partners’ technical teams throughout the program development lifecycle.
Collaboration with customer service in support of field rcca activities .
Collaboration with operations to support:
New product introduction (NPI) ;
Manufacturing RCCA activities;
Supplier qualification.
Realistic time assessment of competing priorities and clear communication with your manager and the program management team.
Maintaining the status of activities in our program activity tracking system.
Presenting concerns clearly and concisely (even when solutions are not clear).
BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar area (or equivalent experience).
Demonstrated knowledge of electronics first-principles.
5+ years of design experience of electrical and electronic systems in at least two of the following disciplines:
Vehicle electrical and/ or functional architecture design;
Embedded hardware operating within a multi-node network;
Power electronics;
EWIS design.
Demonstrable troubleshooting and problem-solving ability with complex integrated electronic and electrical systems.
Strong technical writing and documentation organization skills.
Strong verbal communication skills and presentation skills for both technical and management audiences.
Self-management orientation with ownership mindset.
Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally, up to 20%.
Ability to take calls before or after typical work hours, to connect with internal and external partners in different time zones.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship for any work visa.
Experience with EV development, automotive development processes and tools.
Experience with integration of systems comprised of multiple ECUs.
Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
M1 motorcycle license .
Our culture is best experienced in person and this role is primarily on-site at our R&D facility in Scotts Valley, CA to support hands-on collaboration and development activities. However, we understand the importance of work-life balance and offer flexibility for:
Remote work or adjusted hours to accommodate personal responsibilities such as medical appointments or family needs.
Hybrid arrangements for the right candidate or during specific phases of development programs where remote work is feasible.
Our goal is to provide an environment that supports both professional success and personal well-being.
Travel for this role may be up to 20%, including domestic and international travel, including India, China, and domestic supplier locations.
Ability to communicate in real-time with internal and external partners.
Ability to safely and effectively navigate a lab environment.
Ability to occasionally lift 30 pounds.
Ability to work for extended periods in face-to-face meetings, on computers, or in a lab environment .
We believe diversity is our strength, and inclusion is our foundation. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building a workplace where everyone—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or background—can thrive. We celebrate individuality, amplify diverse voices, and strive to foster an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to do their best work. Together, we’re shaping a future that works for all.
The estimated salary range for a new hire in this position is $130,000 to $160,000. Actual salary may vary depending on job-related factors, which may include candidate's knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to regular salary, Zero offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) matching plan.
Zero Motorcycles Inc. is an American manufacturer of electric motorcycles.
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