Power Electronics Engineer

Overview:   

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. 

Major Duties and 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. 

• As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct, and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here: https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity 

• 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. 
  
  

Basic Qualifications: 

• 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. 
  
  

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 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. 
  

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.
• Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also 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.
• To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
• For foreign national candidates: If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.   
  
  

Benefits at ORNL:   

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience. 

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available. 

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov. 

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