Power Electronics Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Power Electronics Engineer

We are seeking a Power Electronics Engineer with 5–10 years of experience to design, develop, and optimize power conversion and power management systems for our next-generation energy products. This role will focus on DC-DC conversion, voltage regulation, power conditioning, and efficiency optimization, with strong supporting expertise in PCB design and circuit integration. The ideal candidate will have deep technical knowledge in power electronics and system-level reliability with a background in Electrical Engineering (Master's preferred). You will collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary teams to translate advanced requirements into robust and manufacturable electronic solutions.

About Direct Kinetic Solutions Inc

Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is at the forefront of developing, manufacturing, and revolutionizing Radioisotopic Power Sources (RPS). Situated in Oak Ridge, TN, our radiological lab is dedicated to harnessing the high energy density of isotopes for compact power and electronic devices. Our goal is to redefine power solutions by leveraging continuous and steady energy emission from isotopes, enhancing the longevity and usability of devices such as sensors and small satellites. Direct Kinetic Solutions envisions being the power solution for future generations. You are invited to join us at the early stage of our high-growth, high-potential startup. Your role will be pivotal in defining the company, leaving a lasting impact on operations, product development, facility growth, and team dynamics.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop power conversion systems (DC-DC, DC-AC, AC-DC, etc.) for high-reliability applications.
• Optimize power management architectures for efficiency, size, and reliability.
• Perform PCB design/layout and integration of power electronics into compact, high-density systems.
• Conduct circuit simulation, modeling, and performance analysis of power systems.
• Perform system testing, validation, and troubleshooting under demanding operating environments.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineering teams to ensure seamless integration into final products.
• Support documentation, design reviews, and compliance with relevant safety and performance standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Master's preferred).
• 5–10 years of experience in power electronics design and development.
• Proficiency in PCB design tools (e.g., Altium, Cadence, OrCAD, or equivalent).
• Strong background in DC-DC converters, power regulation, and conditioning.
• Familiarity with high-efficiency and low-power electronics design.
• Knowledge of EMI/EMC compliance and thermal management in power systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to deliver in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with radiation-hardened or harsh-environment power electronics.
• Familiarity with high-voltage or high-frequency power electronics.
• Experience with embedded control of power systems.
• Reliability testing and qualification experience for aerospace/defense/energy applications.

Who You Are

• You're motivated by a challenge - we are a small team with a big mission, we are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and doesn't back down from a challenge.
• You strive for excellence and see setbacks as opportunities - we are constantly improving as we bring our first-of-a-kind product to market, we believe that no solution is too out there, and we are always open to looking at things from a different perspective.
• A teamplayer - you will have a key role in supporting our team of technical experts, you will coordinate efforts between manufacturing and engineering, ensuring everyone on the team has the materials, tools, and support to succeed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive health insurance
• 401K plan with company matching
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment