Principal Power Electronics Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Health coverage

Stock options

Professional development

R&D facilities

Job summary

Placements24 represents a global leader in renewable energy technology seeking a Principal Power Electronics Engineer for its Sandton, Gauteng location. The role focuses on high-level design, development, and validation of advanced power electronic converters and systems for solar, storage, and EV applications.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in Electrical Engineering, 12+ years in power electronics, and strong expertise in SiC/GaN devices, magnetic design, and thermal management.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Electronics.
• 12+ years of experience in design and development of power electronic systems.
• Extensive knowledge of wide-bandgap devices (SiC, GaN).
• Proficiency in power electronics simulation tools (PLECS, PSIM, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of magnetic design principles and thermal management.
• Experience with digital control of power converters and microcontrollers.
• Proven ability to lead complex R&D projects from concept to production.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience in renewable energy or EV applications is a strong asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of high-efficiency, high-power density power electronic converters.
• Conduct detailed analysis and simulation of power electronics circuits and control algorithms.
• Develop novel solutions for power conversion, energy storage, and grid integration challenges.
• Specify and select power semiconductor devices, passive components, and control ICs.
• Design magnetic components for optimal performance and size.
• Develop and implement advanced control strategies for grid-tied and off-grid systems.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software, mechanical, and systems engineers.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide expert technical guidance.
• Stay at the forefront of power electronics technology and contribute to IP development.

Skills

Power electronics

Magnetic design

Digital control

MATLAB/Simulink

Mentoring

Team leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering

MSc in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PLECS

PSIM

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in renewable energy technology, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Power Electronics Engineer to join their advanced research and development team in Sandton, Gauteng . This senior position is pivotal in driving innovation and shaping the future of power conversion technologies for solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle applications. You will be responsible for the high-level design, development, and validation of cutting-edge power electronic converters and systems. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in power electronics, magnetic design, control strategies, and thermal management, with a proven track record of delivering complex, high-performance solutions. This is a unique opportunity to lead technical direction and make a significant impact in a rapidly growing industry from our Sandton location.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of high-efficiency, high-power density power electronic converters (e.g., inverters, converters, chargers).
• Conduct detailed analysis and simulation of power electronic circuits and control algorithms.
• Develop novel solutions for power conversion, energy storage, and grid integration challenges.
• Specify and select power semiconductor devices, passive components, and control ICs.
• Design magnetic components (inductors, transformers) for optimal performance and size.
• Develop and implement advanced control strategies for grid-tied and off-grid power electronic systems.
• Oversee prototype development, testing, and validation activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software, mechanical, and systems engineers.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide expert technical guidance.
• Stay at the forefront of power electronics technology and contribute to intellectual property development.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Electronics.
• Over 12 years of experience in the design and development of power electronic systems.
• Extensive knowledge of wide-bandgap semiconductor devices (SiC, GaN) is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in power electronics simulation tools (e.g., PLECS, PSIM, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of magnetic design principles and thermal management.
• Experience with digital control of power converters and microcontrollers.
• Proven ability to lead complex R&D projects from concept to production.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and the ability to influence technical decisions.
• Experience in renewable energy or electric vehicle applications is a strong asset.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including competitive base salary and significant bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits suite, including premium health coverage and retirement plans.
• Stock options and opportunities for equity participation.
• Support for continuous learning, attending conferences, and professional development.
• State-of-the-art R&D facilities in Sandton, Gauteng .
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking technologies with global impact.
• Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates.
• Dynamic and collaborative research environment.