The Role
We are seeking an experienced Principal Applications Engineer with deep expertise in power MOSFETs and high-performance power converter design. This senior individual contributor role will serve as the technical authority for customer designs using our “SuperQ” MOSFETs in demanding applications up to 10 kW and beyond, with particular emphasis on motor drives, phase-shifted full-bridge (PSFB), and LLC resonant converter topologies. You will work directly with internal development key stakeholders as well as tier-1 customers – providing reference designs, overseeing benchmarking activities, and, based on results, shaping product definition, while acting as the voice of the customer internally.
This role reports to the Director of Applications Engineering
Key Responsibilities:
- Support internal development of HV MOSFETs and serve as the key technical interface for strategic customers designing with our 150-650V “SuperQ” MOSFETs
- Develop, document, and support high-efficiency reference designs (up to 10 kW) featuring:
- Traction inverters and on-board chargers for EV/HEV/Industrial
- Industrial motor drives and servo drives (3-phase, up to 10 kW)
- Phase-shifted full-bridge (PSFB) topologies for isolated DC-DC conversion
- LLC resonant converters (half-bridge and full-bridge)
- Totem-pole PFC and other high-frequency topologies
- Perform detailed power-loss modeling, thermal analysis, and efficiency optimization using systems level specific tools (PLECS, LTspice, Mathcad, etc.)
- Design and validate gate-drive circuits optimized for fast switching (low inductance, negative-voltage turn-off, active Miller clamping, short-circuit protection, etc.)
- Conduct customer training, design reviews, and on-site debugging of applications
- Generate application notes, white papers, evaluation board user guides, and competitive teardowns focused on Super-“Q” advantages
- Collaborate with IC design, reliability, and marketing teams to define next-generation Super-“Q” MOSFETs based on real customer pain points
- Support field applications engineers and distribution FAEs globally
Required Qualifications:
- MSEE or PhD in Power Electronics (or BSEE + 10+ years relevant experience)
- 8+ years of hands-on experience designing switched-mode power supplies or motor drives using best in class HV MOSFETs and/or wide-bandgap devices (SiC 4H-MOSFETs or GaN HEMT experience a plus).
- Proven track record of successful production designs in the following:
- 3-phase motor drives/inverters (up to 10 kW or higher)
- Phase-shifted full-bridge converters
- LLC resonant converters
- Totem-pole bridgeless PFC
- Expert-level knowledge of:
- Silicon /SiC MOSFET switching behavior, body-diode characteristics, and third-quadrant operation
- High-speed, low-inductance layout techniques for High Performance SIlicon/SiCconverter designs
- Advanced gate-driver design for Si/ SiC (desat, soft shutdown, dv/dt control)
- Magnetic design for high-frequency transformers and resonant inductors
- Proficiency with simulation tools (PLECS, SIMetrix/SIMPLIS, LTspice, PSIM) and lab equipment (high-bandwidth scopes, double-pulse test rigs)
- Ability to create SPICE models and validate a plus
- Strong customer-facing skills; ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly.
- Willingness to travel ~10% (domestic and international)
Nice to Have:
- Prior experience at a Top Tier Power MOSFET, SiC or GaN semiconductor manufacturer.
- Published papers or patents in power electronics in aforementioned topologies.
- Familiarity with automotive (AEC-Q101) or industrial qualification requirements is a plus.
- Experience with digital control (TI C2000, STM32, Microchip dsPIC) for motor drives and resonant converters is a plus.
Why Join iDEAL
- Work on next-generation silicon technology redefining performance limits
- Direct impact on products used in high-growth markets
- Collaborative, low-ego culture with high technical depth
- Opportunity to grow with a scaling semiconductor company
- Exposure to global customers and cutting-edge applications
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Equity participation
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k), PTO