Power Electronics Design Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Power Electronics Design Engineer to join the Stellenbosch innovation hub. You will design, test, and optimize high-efficiency converters, inverters, and BMS for solar and energy storage applications in a hybrid work setting.

The role demands advanced degrees and 6+ years of experience, with strong MATLAB/Simulink and lab skills. You will collaborate with firmware teams and contribute to sustainable energy projects in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Electronics.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in design and development of power electronic systems.
• Proven experience with MATLAB/Simulink, PSIM, or LTspice.
• Hands-on lab experience with oscilloscopes, power analyzers, and LCR meters.
• Knowledge of DSP and microcontroller-based control; familiarity with BMS is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test high-efficiency power electronic converters for renewable energy systems.
• Perform component selection, circuit design, simulation, and layout for power electronic modules.
• Develop control algorithms for MPPT, grid synchronization, and battery charging/discharging.
• Conduct thermal analysis and design cooling for power electronic components.
• Specify and validate gate driver circuits and control interfaces for SiC/GaN devices.
• Develop and execute test plans for prototypes and production units.
• Collaborate with firmware engineers to integrate control software with hardware.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues during prototyping, testing, and field deployment.
• Stay abreast of advancements in power electronics technology and topologies.
• Prepare technical documentation including design reports and test results.

Skills

Power Electronics

MATLAB/Simulink

DSP

Microcontroller control

Teamwork

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering (Power Electronics)

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

PSIM

LTspice

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in renewable energy solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Power Electronics Design Engineer to join their innovation hub in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is integral to the design and development of next-generation power converters, inverters, and battery management systems for solar and energy storage applications. You will work on challenging projects, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a balance between collaborative in-office work and focused remote sessions. You will be part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to engineering excellence and environmental sustainability. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate engineer to shape the future of clean energy.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test high-efficiency power electronic converters (e.g., DC-DC, DC-AC, AC-DC) for renewable energy systems.
• Perform component selection, circuit design, simulation, and layout for power electronic modules.
• Develop control algorithms for maximum power point tracking (MPPT), grid synchronization, and battery charging/discharging.
• Conduct thermal analysis and design appropriate cooling solutions for power electronic components.
• Specify and validate gate driver circuits and control interfaces for power semiconductor devices (e.g., SiC, GaN MOSFETs/IGBTs).
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for power electronic prototypes and production units.
• Collaborate with firmware engineers to integrate control software with hardware.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues encountered during prototyping, testing, and field deployment.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in power electronics technology, including new topologies and semiconductor devices.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, test results, and user manuals.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Electronics.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in the design and development of power electronic systems.
• Proven experience with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSIM, or LTspice.
• Hands-on experience with lab equipment, including oscilloscopes, power analyzers, and LCR meters.
• Knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) and microcontroller-based control is essential.
• Familiarity with battery technologies and battery management systems (BMS) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently manage tasks.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund. Employees benefit from ample paid time off and are provided with opportunities for continuous professional development through training and conference attendance. The hybrid work structure in our Stellenbosch office offers flexibility and work-life balance. Join a team at the forefront of the green energy revolution and contribute to a sustainable future.