Power Electronics Controls Research and Development Engineer

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Henegouwen; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Hitachi Energy Belgium N.V. in Charleroi, Belgium, is seeking a Power Electronics Research and Development Engineer to lead the development of advanced control technologies for next-generation power electronic systems.

You will drive innovation in converter control, grid-connected power electronics, digital control architectures, and intelligent energy management solutions. You will collaborate with global R&D teams, influence technology strategy, mentor engineers, and support the

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in power electronics controls.
• Strong background in control theory, dynamic modeling, and signal processing.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and modern control design methods.
• Knowledge of grid synchronization and PLL design.
• Experience with HIL testing and real-time verification.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development of control systems for power electronic converters and grid-connected systems.
• Develop advanced control algorithms for voltage-source converters and bidirectional converters.
• Model, simulate, and validate control strategies for microgrids and grid-forming converters.
• Conduct hardware-in-the-loop and real-time simulation activities.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and system engineering teams to optimize performance.
• Drive invention disclosures, patents, and publications.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship across global R&D teams.

Skills

Power electronics controls

Control systems

Matlab/Simulink

Real-time simulation

HIL testing

Grid-forming control

Grid-following control

Technical leadership

Education

MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

PLECS

PSCAD

RTDS

OPAL-RT

Job description

Location: Charleroi, Hainaut, Belgium

Job ID: R0137490

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Company Name: Hitachi Energy Belgium N.V.

Profession (Job Category): Engineering & Science

Job Schedule: Full time

Remote: No

Job Description: The opportunity Hitachi Energy is seeking a Power Electronics Research and Development Engineer to lead the development of advanced control technologies for next-generation power electronic systems. In this role, you will drive innovation in converter control, grid-connected power electronics, digital control architectures, and intelligent energy management solutions. You will collaborate with global R&D teams to develop enabling technologies for grid modernization, and advanced transformer applications. As a recognized technical leader, you will influence technology strategy, mentor engineers, and contribute to the commercialization of innovative control solutions that support a more sustainable and resilient power grid.

How you will make an impact

• Lead research and development activities focused on control systems for power electronic converters and grid-connected systems.
• Develop innovative control algorithms for voltage-source converters, bidirectional converters, active front ends, and emerging electrification technologies.
• Develop and validate control strategies for microgrids, grid-forming converters, and power quality enhancement applications.
• Perform system modeling, simulation, and verification using MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS, PSCAD, RTDS, OPAL-RT, and related tools.
• Lead hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), software-in-the-loop (SIL), and real-time simulation activities.
• Collaborate with power electronics hardware, transformer, software, insulation, and system engineering teams to optimize overall system performance.
• Drive innovation through invention disclosures, patent generation, technical publications, and participation in industry conferences and standards organizations.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and researchers across global R&D organizations.
• Support technology transfer from research into commercial products and solutions.

Your background

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Power Electronics, Power Systems, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in power electronics controls, advanced control systems, or electrical energy conversion technologies.
• Strong theoretical foundation in control systems, dynamic systems modeling, signal processing, and power system analysis.
• Demonstrated experience developing control algorithms for converters, inverters, rectifiers, energy storage systems, or grid-connected power electronic equipment.
• Expertise in MATLAB/Simulink and modern control system design methodologies.
• Knowledge of grid synchronization, PLL design, grid-forming and grid-following control, power quality, and converter stability analysis.
• Experience with HIL testing, real-time simulation, and automated verification methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical programs and multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Demonstrated innovation through patents, publications, technical leadership, or successful technology commercialization.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Fluency in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of AI/ML applications for controls, condition monitoring, or autonomous power system operation.
• Experience with grid codes, utility interconnection requirements, and power system stability studies.
• Design and implement digital control architectures on DSPs, FPGAs, real-time controllers, and embedded platforms.

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Use of Al and automated tools in recruitment

As part of our recruitment process, Hitachi Energy uses digital and automated tools, including Al-supported solutions, to assist with activities such as application screening, job matching, and interview scheduling. These tools are designed to support our recruiters and do not replace human decision-making. Candidate data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection and employment laws as well as Hitachi's Global Data Privacy Notice.

Background Screening and Security Checks

As part of the hiring process, Hitachi Energy conducts pre-employment background checks that may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information, in accordance with applicable laws. For certain roles - particularly those involving access to sensitive information, financial responsibilities, client data, regulated environments, or security-sensitive functions - additional or more comprehensive background or security screenings may be required. These may include, but are not limited to, enhanced criminal history checks, credit history reviews (where legally permissible), sanctions screening, or other due diligence measures aligned with the responsibilities of the position. The scope and depth of any background or security review will be determined based on the nature of the role and business necessity, and will always be conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Candidates will be notified and, where required, asked to provide consent prior to the initiation of any such checks.

Hitachi brings together the world's greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities - and drive innovation for a better future. That's why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world's biggest challenges. Our people love technology - and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there's no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there's no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting. To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons.

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