Senior Power Electronics Design Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Power Electronics Design Engineer in Randburg, Gauteng to lead R&D on high‑efficiency power electronic systems for utility‑scale solar, wind, and energy storage. You will design, simulate, and validate inverters and DC‑DC converters with a focus on reliability and grid compliance.

You will mentor engineers and collaborate with mechanical and thermal teams to deliver robust solutions. Strong experience with SiC/GaN devices and EMI/EMC is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering with Power Electronics specialization.
• 8+ years hands-on experience designing high‑power power electronic converters.
• Proven grid‑tied inverter design experience for solar/wind energy.
• Experience with SPICE-like tools and MATLAB/Simulink; schematic capture knowledge.
• Strong control theory, DSP, and embedded programming (C/C++).
• Knowledge of SiC/GaN devices and EMI/EMC considerations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of state-of-the-art power electronic systems for renewables.
• Perform circuit design, simulation, and analysis of topologies.
• Select components based on performance, cost, and reliability.
• Develop control algorithms and firmware for converters for grid compliance.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation in lab and field.
• Collaborate with mechanical/thermal teams for robust integration.
• Analyze field data and drive design improvements.
• Stay updated on SiC/GaN, converter topologies, and control strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team growth.
• Ensure designs meet IEC/UL safety and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Power electronics design

Circuit analysis

Control theory

Embedded programming

Team mentoring

Problem-solving

Education

Master's/PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSpice

MATLAB/Simulink

PLECS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced power conversion technologies for the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Power Electronics Design Engineer . This critical role, based in their innovative facility in Randburg, Gauteng , will focus on the research, development, and design of state-of-the‑art power electronic systems for utility‑scale solar, wind, and energy storage applications. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical understanding and extensive practical experience in designing high‑efficiency, high‑reliability power converters, including inverters, converters, and DC‑DC converters. You will be instrumental in driving technological advancements and product innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of cutting‑edge power electronic systems for renewable energy applications (inverters, converters, grid interface devices).
• Perform detailed circuit design, simulation (e.g., SPICE, PLECS), and analysis of power electronic topologies.
• Select appropriate components (semiconductors, passive components, control ICs) based on performance, cost, and reliability requirements.
• Develop control algorithms and firmware for power electronic converters to ensure optimal performance, grid compliance, and protection.
• Oversee the prototyping, testing, and validation of power electronic designs in laboratory and field environments.
• Collaborate with mechanical and thermal engineers to ensure robust system design and integration.
• Analyze field performance data and drive design improvements based on feedback and lessons learned.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in power semiconductor devices (SiC, GaN), converter topologies, and control strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the power electronics team.
• Ensure designs meet safety standards (e.g., IEC, UL) and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, with a specialization in Power Electronics.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands‑on experience in the design and development of power electronic converters for high‑power applications.
• Proven experience in designing grid‑tied inverters for solar or wind energy systems is essential.
• Expertise in simulation tools (e.g., PSpice, MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS) and schematic capture software.
• Strong understanding of control theory, digital signal processing, and embedded systems programming (e.g., C/C++).
• Knowledge of semiconductor devices (MOSFETs, IGBTs, SiC, GaN) and their application in power converters.
• Experience with EMI/EMC design considerations and mitigation techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a systematic approach to design and troubleshooting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, collaborative team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off. We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, conference attendance, and participation in industry‑leading research. The hybrid work model offers flexibility while ensuring essential team collaboration within the vibrant hub of Randburg .