Senior Power Electronics Engineer
Job description
About the role
The Senior Power Electronics Engineer at Commonwealth Fusion Systems serves as a critical technical leader responsible for driving the power electronics roadmap of the SPARC program from concept to production. You will own the architectural decisions and detailed design of power modules that enable the functionality of the fusion device. This position requires a high level of ownership over complex electrical systems, ensuring all designs adhere to stringent project specifications and performance targets. You will translate abstract energy industry requirements into concrete electrical solutions through close collaboration with engineering and technical teams. The role demands rigorous analysis and foresight to anticipate potential design conflicts and mitigate risks early in the development cycle. You will act as the primary technical authority for power electronics within your squad, providing clear guidance and justification for design choices. Success in this role is measured by the delivery of robust, high-quality hardware that supports the timeline and goals of the fusion energy mission. You will be expected to mentor and influence the technical direction of junior engineers through your expertise and execution.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Perform detailed architectural analysis and schematic design for power electronics systems within the SPARC project scope.
- Develop and execute simulation models using PSpice and MATLAB to validate circuit behavior and component selection criteria.
- Define comprehensive test procedures and validation protocols to ensure hardware meets predefined performance and safety standards.
- Lead the development of power modules, focusing on reliability, efficiency, and compliance with energy industry regulatory frameworks.
- Interface directly with the Director of Power Systems to align technical deliverables with strategic program objectives and milestones.
- Coordinate with manufacturing and production teams to optimize designs for scalability and manufacturability without compromising technical integrity.
- Conduct in-depth measurement data review to identify design deviations and drive corrective actions to keep projects on schedule.
- Serve as the central point of contact for cross-functional stakeholders to clarify requirements and resolve technical ambiguities efficiently.
- Integrate feedback from policymakers and suppliers to ensure electrical designs remain compliant with evolving industry standards and regulations.
- Build and maintain integration test procedures that verify system-level functionality before moving to prototype assembly stages.
- Analyze prototype test results and iterate on design parameters to resolve issues and enhance system performance proactively.
- Ship power electronics updates and coordinate verification activities across engineering groups to ensure smooth deployment.
- Document all design decisions and methodologies to create a clear knowledge base for future development and troubleshooting efforts.
- Mentor team members by providing technical guidance and fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation and problem-solving.
Requirements
- Hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering or a closely related technical field from an accredited institution.
- Possess a minimum of three years of hands-on experience in power electronics or equivalent roles within the energy sector.
- Demonstrate proven expertise in designing and implementing 650V power converters for demanding applications.
- Show advanced proficiency in control systems relevant to power electronics and dynamic system regulation.
- Exhibit mastery of simulation tools such as MATLAB and PSpice for electrical design verification and analysis.
- Ability to work effectively with cross-functional stakeholders to align technical solutions with business goals.
- Capability to interpret complex technical specifications and translate them into actionable engineering designs.
- Willingness to adhere strictly to project timelines and budget constraints while maintaining high standards of quality.
Nice to have
- Prior professional experience in fusion, energy, or high-growth technology environments is valued and may indicate a stronger fit.
- Background in industries with rigorous safety and compliance standards can be advantageous for this role.
Practical notes
This role is based in Devens, Massachusetts, and operates on a full-time schedule. The compensation range is explicitly stated as $180,000 USD to $240,000 USD. Applicants should be prepared for potential verification of credentials and experience as part of the hiring process. Relocation support details, if applicable, would be discussed during the hiring stages. This position is exempt and requires the ability to work within the United States without sponsorship at this time.