Power Electronics Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver ground-breaking solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. We are seeking a Power Electronics Engineer who will support the Electrical Power Conversion Group in the Research Accelerator Division (RAD), Neutron Sciences Directorate (NScD) at ORNL. As a Power Electronics Engineer at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), you will support the operation, maintenance, repair, and upgrades of high-voltage systems, including Converter Modulators, Magnet Power Supplies, Beam Kickers, and Choppers. Responsibilities include planning projects, developing specifications and procedures, designing and testing systems, and troubleshooting equipment. Reporting to the Electrical Power Conversion Group Leader, you will collaborate with ORNL staff, vendors, and external partners to drive innovation in neutron science within a world-class research environment.

Requirements

A BS in electrical engineering or a related field and at least 5 years of proven experience. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
Solid understanding of analog and digital circuits and electric circuit theory.
Experience planning and managing major technical projects.
Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
Must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of power electronics, high-power semiconductor devices, pulsed power systems (>50 kV), and electromagnetic fields.
Expertise in designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting high-power electronics and magnetics, using standard lab test equipment.
Proficiency in circuit simulation, mechanical CAD, PCB design tools, and finite element electromagnetic analysis software.
Experience creating engineering documents, reports, and technical publications, including drawings, procedures, and specifications.
Familiarity with AC power distribution (medium voltage), National Electric Code (NFPA-70E/B), and electrical safety in hazardous environments.
Ability to guide engineers and technicians in project environments and solve complex technical problems.
Experience programming FPGAs, PLCs, using LabView, and operational experience with large accelerator facilities.
Knowledge of Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA) and implementation methods.

Responsibilities

Evaluate High Voltage Converter Modulators, power supplies, and kicker/chopper systems to enhance performance, availability, and address obsolescence.
Support 24/7 SNS accelerator operations, including occasional after-hours call-ins to maintain 90% neutron production availability.
Plan, manage, and implement maintenance and upgrades using work control tools.
Develop and maintain documentation for design, installation, training, testing, maintenance, and procurement.
Specify, procure, and develop subsystems and components.
Present work at conferences, workshops, and sponsor reviews.
Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality standards.
Collaborate on proposals for innovative accelerator electrical applications and train others.
Commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct.
Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.