The Power Electronics Engineer will play a pivotal role in the design, development, and optimization of advanced power conversion systems, focusing on multilevel converter technologies for applications in renewable energy, grid infrastructure, and high-voltage systems. Collaborate with control systems, mechanical, and test engineers to integrate power electronics into larger systems, addressing challenges like fault protection, cooling, and scalability.
Numbers & Facts
Location
Hampton, GA
Job Type
Full-time
Website
http://www.southernstatesllc.com
Description
Job Summary:
The Power Electronics Engineer will play a pivotal role in the design, development, and optimization of advanced power conversion systems, focusing on multilevel converter technologies for applications in renewable energy, grid infrastructure, and high-voltage systems. This position requires a seasoned expert to lead technical efforts in topology design, efficiency enhancement, and hardware integration, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions that meet stringent performance, reliability, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will drive prototyping initiatives, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the overall success of power electronics projects in a dynamic engineering environment.
Essential Functions:
Design and develop converter topologies, including multilevel circuits and selection of switching devices such as IGBTs, SiC MOSFETs, or GaN transistors, ensuring compatibility with high-power applications
Contribute to prototyping efforts, including hardware assembly, integration of components, and hands-on troubleshooting to validate designs in lab and field environments
Conduct detailed simulations and modeling using tools like MATLAB/Simulink, LTSpice, or PLECS to predict system performance, thermal behavior, and electromagnetic compatibility
Collaborate with control systems, mechanical, and test engineers to integrate power electronics into larger systems, addressing challenges like fault protection, cooling, and scalability
Perform root cause analysis on design issues, implement corrective actions, and ensure compliance with industry standards such as IEEE, IEC, and UL for safety and performance
Manage component obsolescence issues of existing hardware platforms
Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for internal stakeholders and external partners
Support internal audits and enforce adherence to documented policies and procedures to uphold quality of designs
“Hands on” ability to breadboard and test new designs and troubleshoot production problems
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university
Knowledge of multilevel converter topologies and power conversion systems.
Proficiency in simulation & design tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, SPICE-based software) and hardware prototyping techniques.
Solid understanding of thermal management and power loss calculations.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to technical detail
Effective written and verbal communication skills for customer and internal technical discussions
Willingness to travel occasionally for customer meetings, site visits, or training (typically <25%)
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in power systems or power electronics
Five (5) years of professional experience in power electronic design of multilevel converters and high-voltage systems
Proven expertise in designing multilevel converters (e.g., MMC, CHB) and working with power semiconductors like Si IGBTs or wide-bandgap semiconductors
Familiarity with advanced control strategies, such as model predictive control or PWM techniques for multilevel converters
Experience with embedded systems, FPGA/DSP programming, or real-time control implementation
Experience leading hardware integration and prototyping projects from concept to validation
Demonstrated ability to optimize designs for efficiency, harmonics reduction, and high-voltage performance
Knowledge of regulatory compliance and certification processes for high-power equipment
Proficiency in CAD tools for PCB layout (e.g., Altium Designer) and mechanical integration software