Power Electronics Engineer

About the role

You will architect and validate the power distribution and conditioning topologies that enable our LEO constellation to operate reliably in the harsh space environment. You will take ownership of the complete power subsystem lifecycle from initial concept and modeling through qualification testing and flight hardware acceptance. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to translate system requirements into robust power solutions that meet stringent reliability, mass, and volume constraints. You will drive the selection and qualification of components to ensure they meet both performance and space heritage requirements. You will be responsible for developing analysis models that predict power system behavior under all mission scenarios. You will lead debugging and failure analysis activities for power-related issues observed during testing or early orbit operations. You will ensure all power designs adhere to strict safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards. You will mentor junior engineers on best practices for space power design and verification.

Key facts

What you'll do

Architect power distribution networks and define power rails for each functional block within the satellite avionics architecture.

Perform detailed schematic design and layout for battery charging, discharge routing, and power conditioning circuits using high-density components.

Conduct comprehensive trade studies to evaluate power conversion architectures and select optimal components for space applications.

Develop and maintain executable models of the power system to verify performance against mission requirements and operational scenarios.

Design and implement test procedures to validate power subsystem performance, including load transient response and line regulation testing.

Lead the development of qualification test plans that verify compliance with space-grade reliability, vibration, and thermal standards.

Perform failure mode and effects analysis for power circuits to identify single point failures and define redundancy or mitigation strategies.

Collaborate with firmware teams to ensure power sequencing, monitoring, and control logic meet system integration requirements.

Support the integration of power boards into the full satellite stack, ensuring mechanical, thermal, and electrical compatibility.

Provide technical leadership during manufacturing reviews to ensure power design intent is preserved throughout the production process.

Analyze test data from environmental and functional testing to refine models and improve future power subsystem designs.

Document all design decisions, analysis results, and test outcomes to support regulatory compliance and future program iterations.

Mentor junior engineers by providing code reviews, design guidance, and constructive feedback on power subsystem implementations.

Champion continuous improvement initiatives to enhance power efficiency, reliability, and manufacturability across the constellation.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical field.

You must have demonstrated experience in power electronics design, including DC-DC converters, linear regulators, and battery management circuits.

You must possess a strong understanding of analog circuit design, noise analysis, and signal integrity as it applies to sensitive space systems.

You must be proficient with simulation tools such as SPICE and demonstrate the ability to interpret simulation results for design validation.

You must have hands-on experience with test equipment including oscilloscopes, power supplies, and digital multimeters for hardware verification.

You must have a proven track record of delivering hardware projects that meet specifications within schedule and budget constraints.

You must be able to pass a background check and meet the eligibility requirements for a government security clearance.

You must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship at this time.

Nice to have

Experience with space or radiation-hardened components and qualification processes is highly valued.

Familiarity with satellite power systems and flight heritage from previous space programs is a significant advantage.

Knowledge of relevant industry standards such as ECSS and experience with DO-160 testing methodologies is preferred.

Experience with automated test frameworks and data analysis tools is considered a plus.

Practical notes

This role is based in Saratoga, California and requires in-office presence during standard business hours.

Travel to customer or test sites may be required up to 25 percent of the time.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship at this time.