Research Engineer - 530162

The University of Alabama; Tuscaloosa (AL); On-site; USD 57,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Alabama is seeking a Research Engineer in Tuscaloosa to develop hardware and control systems for advanced power electronic projects.

Responsibilities include designing, testing, and validating high-power systems, documenting results, and assisting in lab management and safety. A strong background in power electronics and collaboration with faculty and students is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and two years of research experience, or master's degree with some research experience.
• Strong knowledge of power electronics hardware and high-power converters.
• Ability to work with faculty, staff, and students.

Responsibilities

• Develops a system including hardware and control/management algorithms for power electronic systems.
• Tests and demonstrates power electronics hardware with >10 kW and voltages up to 1000 V.
• Develops, tests, and documents the system; maintains lab equipment and safety.

Skills

Power electronics

Control systems

Electrical safety

Battery energy storage

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

Lab equipment

Job description

Pay Grade/Pay Range:Minimum: $56,600 - Midpoint: $73,600 (Salaried E9)

Department/Organization:214251 - Electrical and Computer Eng

Normal Work Schedule:Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Job Summary:The Research Engineer uses fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures of a particular field of specialization to perform varied scientific research requiring application and adaptation of established techniques, procedures, and criteria. Evaluates, selects, and applies standard scientific techniques, procedures, and criteria to accomplish a variety of research assignments. Performs various research projects to include conducting experiments, writing research proposals, writing technical papers and research reports.

Additional Department Summary:Develops a system that includes hardware and control and management algorithms programing/software. Develops, tests, and demonstrates power electronic systems hardware with power converters each with power levels that exceed 10 kW and/or voltages of up to 1000 V, advanced control of power electronic systems, analog-digital mixed power controllers for power electronic systems, electric vehicles fast chargers, and Lithium-Ion battery energy storage, but is subject to change. Works on developing and testing/validating this system, use and maintain laboratory and its electrical and mechanical equipment and tools, prepare/write reports, and assist in lab management, maintenance and safety, etc. Laboratory safety responsibilities will include safe storage, use and disposal of batteries and other material, and providing safety supervision to users.

Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of research experience; OR master's degree and some research experience.

Skills and Knowledge:Knowledge in developing, testing, and demonstrating power electronic systems hardware with power converters each with power levels that exceed 10 kW and/or voltages of up to 1000 V, advanced control of power electronic systems, analog-digital mixed power controllers for power electronic systems, electric vehicles fast chargers, and Lithium-Ion battery energy storage. Excellent electrical and good mechanical skills. Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students. Willing and able to learn additional skills that are needed for the project and remain proficient and up to date with the state-of-the-art technology to support the project.

Preferred Qualifications:Experience in one or more of the technical or research areas related to the project. Experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for energy systems, including data-driven modeling, real-time inference, and adaptive control. Familiarity with AI model training, validation, and deployment on embedded or edge platforms. Knowledge of data integrity, robustness, and basic cybersecurity considerations in AI-enabled control systems.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity:The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC's Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.

The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.