Senior Hardware Applications Engineer

Job Summary Our client, a leading power electronics and clean-energy technology provider, is seeking a Senior Hardware Applications Engineer to join their team. This position will own application-specific testing of an innovative solid state transformer across AI data centers, utility-scale battery energy storage systems, and solar power plants. Contract DetailsContract Type: Direct HireWork Location: Scotts Valley, CAWork Arrangement: Onsite Core ResponsibilitiesOwn end-to-end application testing of a high C-rate battery pack integrated with solid state transformer technologyValidate ripple mitigation, backup capability, slew rates, power-loss profiles, and overall system performanceSupport SST and utility-scale BESS integration testing at laboratory and pilot-site locationsTest EMS-to-SST communication, grid-forming coordination, black-start functionality, charge and discharge cycling, and round-trip efficiencyIntegrate the SST with commercial data acquisition, SCADA, EMS, and BMS platformsDevelop Python-based test automation to control equipment, sequence tests, capture data, and automate manual proceduresReview pilot performance, identify feature gaps, and partner with software, firmware, and systems teams to improve the product Required Skills/Experience (Must-Haves)5+ years of hands-on experience in power electronics, energy storage, electric vehicles, grid technology, or another hardware-intensive environmentStrong knowledge of DC circuit fundamentals, including resonances, parasitics, slew rates, and inductive spikesExperience correlating hardware test data with circuit or system simulation resultsStrong Python scripting and test-automation skills for controlling instruments, operating power converters, and logging and analyzing data.Working knowledge of inverters, converters, battery management systems, DC pre-charge, contactors, protection systems, and thermal or cooling loopsHands-on experience using oscilloscopes, power analyzers, data acquisition systems, and other laboratory instrumentationExperience with communication protocols such as CAN and Modbus TCP Preferred Skills/Experience (Nice-to-Haves)Experience with solid state transformers or grid-forming invertersExperience commissioning or testing utility-scale battery energy storage systemsFamiliarity with grid-support functionality, EMS integration, or renewable-energy systemsSystems-level testing experience involving power electronics or energy storage productsExperience supporting hardware deployments in laboratory and pilot-site environmentsHands-on experience with LTspice, Simscape, PLECS, or similar simulation toolsExperience integrating commercial SCADA, DAS, EMS, or BMS platforms Key Competencies & BehaviorsStrong first-principles engineering and technical problem-solving abilitiesHands-on, resourceful approach with the initiative to overcome technical and operational challengesAbility to work independently while collaborating closely with systems, software, firmware, and field teamsStrong attention to safety, accuracy, documentation, and repeatable testing practicesComfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving priorities Work EnvironmentLocation: Scotts Valley, CAWork Arrangement: Onsite, with potential travel to pilot deployment sitesHands-on laboratory and field environment involving high-power equipment, instrumentation, cabling, protection hardware, and thermal systems. Compensation & BenefitsPay Range: The approximate pay range for this position is between $112,000 and $160,000 annually. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to background, knowledge, skills, and location. We comply with local wage minimums.Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance PlansEmployee-Owned Profit Sharing (ESOP)401K offered About KellyMitchell At KellyMitchell, our culture is world class. We’re movers and shakers! We don’t mind a bit of friendly competition, and we reward hard work with unlimited potential for growth. This is an exciting opportunity to join a company known for innovative solutions and unsurpassed customer service. We're passionate about helping companies solve their biggest IT staffing & project solutions challenges. As an employee-owned, women-led organization serving Fortune 500 companies nationwide, we deliver expert service at a moment's notice. Marketing Disclosure By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from KellyMitchell and its affiliates and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at https://www.careers.kellymitchell.com/privacy-policy. [143120]