Principal Electrical Engineer

Position Summary The Principal Electrical Engineer – Power Electronics will lead the design and development of low‑cost, high‑efficiency coil driver amplifiers for distributed motion control architectures. This position focuses on current‑controlled power electronics systems used to drive large arrays of electromagnetic actuators. The system architecture includes FPGA‑based current loop control, PWM generation, and EtherCAT distributed communication networks. The role will directly contribute to the development of a scalable distributed coil control platform, supporting applications such as levitation systems and next‑generation robotic actuation platforms. Key Responsibilities Power Electronics Design Design and develop coil driver amplifiers using half‑bridge and H‑bridge topologies. Support systems operating at DC bus voltages up to 200V. Optimize for efficiency, cost, and reliability in high‑volume applications. Address observed prototype issues including PCB reliability, component failures, noise in current feedback loops, interconnect robustness, and serviceability. Current Control System Development Develop and optimize closed‑loop current control systems, including precision current sensing (shunt + amplifier), PI/PID control loops, and low‑latency feedback control. Ensure stable operation across wide variation in coil inductance and large numbers of independently controlled coils. FPGA and Digital Control Integration Implement or co‑develop current loop control algorithms on FPGA platforms. High‑performance PWM generation. Interface with multi‑channel control architectures using parallel or synchronous SPI communication. Distributed System Architecture Develop driver modules operating within a distributed EtherCAT control network. Support scalable architectures capable of controlling tens to hundreds of actuators per subsystem. Collaborate with system teams on partitioning control between central controllers and distributed driver nodes. Hardware Development and Validation Select and design MOSFETs, gate drivers, and current sensing circuits. Protection and filtering circuitry (snubbers, transient suppression). Lead PCB‑level implementation including layout guidance for high‑current switching paths and noise‑sensitive analog measurement circuits. Define and execute design verification testing (DVT). Cost and Reliability Optimization Design to meet aggressive cost targets by balancing performance, manufacturability, and scalability. Improve system KPIs including standby power consumption, thermal efficiency, and mean time between failures (MTBF). Required Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Minimum 8 years of experience in power electronics design. Strong expertise in MOSFET‑based power stages (half/full bridge) and medium voltage DC systems up to ~200V. Hands‑on experience with current sensing techniques (shunt, differential amplifiers) and control loop design (PI/PID). Experience designing systems for EMI/EMC robustness, thermal performance, and reliability/failure analysis. Preferred Qualifications Experience with FPGA‑based control systems (e.g., Lattice, Xilinx, Zynq). Familiarity with EtherCAT or distributed real‑time control networks. Experience with motor drives (BLDC, SRM) and electromagnetic or multi‑coil actuator systems. Experience in high‑channel‑count control systems and real‑time embedded control architectures. Key Competencies Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Ability to lead complex hardware development efforts. Cross‑functional collaboration across electrical, controls, and system engineering. Hands‑on troubleshooting and debugging capability. Success Criteria Demonstrated stable current control across multi‑coil systems. Achievement of target cost per driver module. Reduced noise and improved current feedback performance. Successful hardware validation and scalability demonstration. Compensation Base Salary Range: $132,456.81 USD to $179,206.28 USD. Pay may vary with geography, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications. The position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance. 401(k) Plan. Company‑paid holidays, flexible vacation, and incidental sickness leave. Work Location & Flexibility The role may include a mix of in‑office and remote work, depending on the nature of the role and business needs. Specific expectations will be shared during the interview process. EEO Statement Brooks Automation is an equal‑opportunity employer. It proudly serves as an equal‑opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics. Brooks Automation participates in E‑Verify® to confirm eligibility for employment in the United States.For more details, visit is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. #J-18808-Ljbffr Brooks Automation US LLC