We are seeking a Senior Applications Engineer with a unique combination of power electronics hardware design expertise and embedded firmware development skills. This role involves hands-on development and testing of high-voltage GaN-based hardware, while also implementing digital control algorithms for advanced power conversion systems. You will design reference platforms, validate performance, and deliver integrated hardware-firmware solutions for AC-DC, DC-DC, and motor drive applications.
Key Responsibilities
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Hardware Design & Validation
- Architect and develop power electronics hardware for AC-DC, DC-DC, and motor drive systems using GaN and WBG devices.
- Perform hands-on testing, debugging, and validation of hardware under real operating conditions.
- Ensure compliance with thermal, EMI, and safety requirements.
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Firmware Development & Digital Control
- Design and implement embedded firmware for digital control of power converters.
- Develop and tune control algorithms such as PID, FOC (Field-Oriented Control), and digital compensators.
- Optimize firmware for real-time performance, reliability, and protection features.
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System Integration
- Validate closed-loop performance and ensure seamless integration of hardware and firmware.
- Implement advanced features such as fault detection, telemetry, and adaptive control.
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Reference Design Development
- Create evaluation boards and reference designs showcasing integrated hardware and firmware capabilities.
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Customer Enablement & Support
- Provide technical support to customers implementing hardware and firmware solutions.
- Conduct design reviews, troubleshooting sessions, and technical workshops.
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Technical Documentation
- Develop application notes, design guides, and collateral detailing hardware and firmware integration best practices.
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Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
- Ph.D. preferred but not required.
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Experience:
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5+ years in power electronics hardware design and embedded firmware development.
- Hands-on experience with hardware testing and validation, including oscilloscopes, power analyzers, and high-speed switching measurements.
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Technical Expertise:
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Deep understanding of power electronics fundamentals (topologies, magnetics, thermal management).
- Strong knowledge of digital control theory and real-time embedded systems.
- Proficiency in schematic design and PCB layout (Altium preferred).
- Embedded programming in C/C++, experience with DSPs and microcontrollers (TI C2000, ARM Cortex-M).
- Familiarity with simulation tools (PLECS, MATLAB/Simulink) for hardware and control co-design.
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Preferred:
- Experience with GaN/WBG-based systems and high-frequency switching.
- Knowledge of functional safety standards (ISO 26262) and EMI/EMC compliance.
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Soft Skills:
- Excellent communication and customer-facing skills.
- Strong problem-solving and debugging abilities.
Core Competencies
- Power electronics hardware design and validation
- Embedded firmware development for digital control
- Hands-on testing and system-level integration
- Customer engagement and technical support
- Documentation and knowledge sharing
Renesas is an embedded semiconductor solution provider driven by its Purpose ‘To Make Our Lives Easier.’ As the industry’s leading expert in embedded processing with unmatched quality and system-level know-how, we have evolved to provide scalable and comprehensive semiconductor solutions for automotive, industrial, infrastructure, and IoT industries based on the broadest product portfolio, including High Performance Computing, Embedded Processing, Analog & Connectivity, and Power.
With a diverse team of over 21,000 professionals in more than 30 countries, we continue to expand our boundaries to offer enhanced user experiences through digitalization and usher into a new era of innovation. We design and develop sustainable, power-efficient solutions today that help people and communities thrive tomorrow, ‘To Make Our Lives Easier.’
At Renesas, you can:
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Launch and advance your career in technical and business roles across four Product Groups and various corporate functions. You will have the opportunities to explore our hardware and software capabilities and try new things.
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Make a real impact by developing innovative products and solutions to meet our global customers' evolving needs and help make people’s lives easier, safe and secure.
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Maximize your performance and wellbeing in our flexible and inclusive work environment. Our people-first culture and global support system, including the remote work option and Employee Resource Groups, will help you excel from the first day.
Are you ready to own your success and make your mark?
Join Renesas. Let’s Shape the Future together.
Renesas Electronics is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to supporting diversity and fostering a work environment free of discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military status, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. For more information, please read our Diversity & Inclusion Statement.
We have adopted a hybrid model that gives employees the ability to work remotely two days a week while ensuring that we come together as a team in the office the rest of the time. The designated in-office days are Tuesday through Thursday for innovation, collaboration and continuous learning.
