Power Electronics Controls Research and Development Engineer

About the role

Hitachi Energy is looking for a Power Electronics Research and Development Engineer in Charleroi, Belgium, to lead the development of advanced control technologies for next-generation power electronic systems. The role covers converter control, grid-connected power electronics, digital control architectures and intelligent energy management, working with global R&D teams on technologies for grid modernization and advanced transformer applications.

Key responsibilities

• Lead R&D on control systems for power electronic converters and grid-connected systems
• Develop control algorithms for voltage-source converters, bidirectional converters, active front ends and emerging electrification technologies
• Develop and validate control strategies for microgrids, grid-forming converters and power quality applications
• Run system modeling, simulation and verification with MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS, PSCAD, RTDS and OPAL-RT
• Lead hardware-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop and real-time simulation activities
• Work with hardware, transformer, software, insulation and system engineering teams to optimise system performance
• Promote innovation through invention disclosures, patents, publications and industry conferences and standards bodies
• Mentor engineers and researchers and support technology transfer to commercial products

Required profile

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Power Electronics, Power Systems or a related field
• At least 5 years of experience in power electronics controls, advanced control systems or electrical energy conversion
• Experience developing control algorithms for converters, inverters, rectifiers, energy storage systems or grid-connected equipment
• Proven ability to lead complex technical programs and multidisciplinary teams
• Demonstrated innovation through patents, publications, technical leadership or commercialization
• Fluency in English

Required skills

• Strong theoretical basis in control systems, dynamic systems modeling, signal processing and power system analysis
• Expertise in MATLAB/Simulink and modern control system design
• Knowledge of grid synchronization, PLL design, grid-forming and grid-following control, power quality and converter stability
• HIL testing, real-time simulation and automated verification
• Preferred: AI/ML for controls, grid codes and interconnection requirements, digital control on DSPs/FPGAs/embedded platforms