What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Power Conversion Engineer position at xLight Inc.?
Lead Engineer – Power Conversion Systems
About the Company
xLight is building the world’s most powerful laser to revolutionize semiconductor lithography, metrology, and for other critical applications. Our approach harnesses the power of free-electron lasers, building on accelerator technology in use globally at scientific user facilities. Extending this technology, we are developing industrial-grade light sources, engineered for continuous operation, to meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation patterning, metrology, and inspection applications. Join us in this new revolution.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Lead Engineer to design and develop a comprehensive system of power supplies for precision magnet control and other High Voltage applications. This role requires deep expertise in power conversion, high voltage/high current systems, and the ability to meet stringent performance specifications for stability, noise, and long-term reliability. The ideal candidate will lead the development of power supply systems that deliver exceptional precision and control in demanding applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of AC/DC and DC/DC power conversion systems for magnet control applications
- Architect and implement high voltage and high current power supply solutions
- Design systems to meet stringent ripple and noise specifications for sensitive magnet applications
- Analyze and mitigate long-term drift effects to ensure system stability over extended operational periods
- Develop specifications, test procedures, and acceptance criteria for power supply systems
- Ensure all designs comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and relevant safety standards
- Collaborate with magnet designers, controls engineers, and operations teams to optimize system performance
- Oversee prototype development, testing, and qualification of power supply systems
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to engineering team members
- Prepare technical documentation, design reviews, and progress reports
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
- Extensive experience with power conversion techniques including AC/DC and DC/DC topologies
- Proven track record designing and implementing high voltage and high current power supplies
- Deep understanding of ripple and noise analysis, measurement, and mitigation techniques
- Strong knowledge of long-term drift mechanisms and compensation strategies
- Thorough understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and its application to power system design
- Experience with power supply control systems and feedback loops
- Proficiency with simulation tools for power electronics (SPICE, PLECS, or similar)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing power supplies for particle accelerators or similar precision magnet systems
- Experience with the Experimental Physics Industrial Control System (EPICS)
- Knowledge of beam dynamics and magnet field requirements
- Experience with precision current regulation and measurement techniques
- Familiarity with interlock and protection systems for high power equipment
- Understanding of thermal management for high power density systems
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Power Electronics
- Experience with digital control techniques for power supplies
- Knowledge of EMI/EMC considerations in high power systems
Equal Opportunity Statement
xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.
US citizenship or permanent residence is required.