Principal Electrical Engineer - Power Electronics

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Stock options

Professional development

Remote work

Virtual R&D access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer specializing in Power Electronics to lead high-performance power conversion systems from a Pretoria-based hub while working primarily remotely. You will mentor engineers, shape architecture, and drive innovation across complex projects.

The role demands a PhD or MSc in Electrical Engineering, 12+ years of experience, and expert knowledge of semiconductors, magnetic components, and control strategies, with strong MATLAB/Simulink skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a strong focus on Power Electronics.
• 12+ years of extensive experience in the design and development of power electronic systems.
• Expert-level knowledge of semiconductor devices, magnetic components, and control strategies for power converters.
• Proficiency with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSIM, SPICE, or similar.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment for testing and measurement of power electronics.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and guide engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated experience in a remote or distributed team environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and validation of high-efficiency power electronic converters (e.g., AC/DC, DC/DC, DC/AC).
• Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and component selections for power electronic circuits.
• Conduct advanced simulations and analyses (e.g., thermal, electromagnetic compatibility, transient stability) to optimize designs.
• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and debugging of power electronic systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance and reliability requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of electrical and power engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of power electronics into larger systems.
• Drive innovation by researching and evaluating new technologies, components, and design methodologies.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test procedures, and user manuals.

Skills

Power Electronics

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Remote work

Education

PhD or MSc in Electrical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

PSIM

SPICE

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced technology solutions, is seeking a distinguished Principal Electrical Engineer specializing in Power Electronics. This role is primarily remote, fostering a flexible work environment while allowing significant contributions to high-impact projects. The successful candidate will operate from Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA, though the role itself is fully remote. You will be entrusted with leading the design and development of next-generation power conversion systems, pushing the boundaries of efficiency and performance. This position requires a deep theoretical understanding coupled with extensive practical experience in the field. It offers a unique opportunity to mentor junior engineers, influence architectural decisions, and drive innovation in a crucial technological domain. We are looking for an expert who can independently tackle complex challenges and deliver world-class solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and validation of high-efficiency power electronic converters (e.g., AC/DC, DC/DC, DC/AC).
• Develop detailed design specifications, schematics, and component selections for power electronic circuits.
• Conduct advanced simulations and analyses (e.g., thermal, electromagnetic compatibility, transient stability) to optimize designs.
• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and debugging of power electronic systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance and reliability requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of electrical and power engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of power electronics into larger systems.
• Drive innovation by researching and evaluating new technologies, components, and design methodologies.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test procedures, and user manuals.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a strong focus on Power Electronics.
• 12+ years of extensive experience in the design and development of power electronic systems.
• Expert-level knowledge of semiconductor devices, magnetic components, and control strategies for power converters.
• Proficiency with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSIM, SPICE, or similar.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment for testing and measurement of power electronics.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and guide engineering teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated experience in a remote or distributed team environment is preferred.

Benefits

• Annual salary: ZAR.
• Exceptional health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous stock options and performance incentives.
• Significant investment in professional development, including advanced certifications and research opportunities.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible hours.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development facilities (virtual access provided).