Root Cause Engineer, Medium Voltage

PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Root Cause Engineer, Medium Voltage is responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining brand quality through root-cause analyses and collaboration with internal and external experts. This role supports SMA's commitment to evidence-based quality processes, working closely with cross-functional and international teams to drive sustainable corrective and preventive actions across the product lifecycle.

PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure analyses are evidence-based, documented in compliance with standards, global processes, and aligned with the requirements of internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform and participate in technical failure and data analyses.
• Apply the 8D method for systematic root cause identification.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary and international teams to implement sustainable corrective and preventive actions.
• Conduct initial field analyses, technical evaluations on site, and provide consultations.
• Create detailed failure descriptions and collaborate with headquarters to advise and support other functions.
• Recognize and document existing known failure patterns and provide technical expertise to resolve them.
• Collaborate closely with Customer Quality, Supplier Quality, and regional functions.
• Maintain close collaboration with the analysis unit at SMA headquarters as well as with the application engineering unit in the U.S.
• Execute, monitor, and evaluate corrective actions and measures implemented by the service team or suppliers.
• Travel to Rocklin-based offices, customer sites, and tradeshows as needed.

REQUIRED RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or electrical engineering (Master's preferred) or related field, or similar education.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in research and development (R&D), technical failure analysis, and a background in quality management and customer relations.
• Technical expertise in medium voltage systems, transformer switchgear, electrical systems, converters, and hermetically sealed equipment.
• Expertise in the 8D method for corrective action and quality tools including 5-Why, Ishikawa diagramming, and Pareto analysis.
• Experience in solar, automotive, aerospace, electronics, or similar regulated industries.
• Ability to present quality findings and corrective actions to mid and senior-level management boards.
• Working knowledge of JIRA, Salesforce, SAP, and CRM is a plus.
• Background or sourcing experience with companies such as ABB, GE, Magnatec, Powin, or Eaton Transformers is a plus.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills across international teams.
• Acts with an entrepreneurial and solution-oriented mindset.
• Able to travel regularly.
• Proficiency in the English language, both written and verbal, is required. Proficiency in German is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required.

WE OFFER

• The salary range for this position is $110,000 - $130,000 per year, dependent upon experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage (including $0 premium options).
• Work Location: This role is remote-first. Hybrid or in-office presence is preferred for those located within commuting distance of our Rocklin, CA office, consistent with our current work model.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.