Brooks is a leading provider of automation solutions with over 40 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, offering precision robotics, integrated automation systems, and contamination control solutions that empower chip manufacturers worldwide. Our product portfolio includes a range of automation solutions, including robots, vacuum systems, and atmospheric robots for semiconductor manufacturing (www.brooks.com).
Are you looking for a place where you can be part of a transformation? Join us at Brooks Automation and be a part of a dynamic organization that is shaping the future of technology.
Principal Electrical Engineer
Job Description
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
Current Control System Development
Develop and optimize closed-loop current control systems, including:
Precision current sensing (shunt + amplifier)
PI/PID control loops
Low-latency feedback control
Ensure stable operation across:
Wide variation in coil inductance
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
Noise-sensitive analog measurement circuits
Define and execute design verification testing (DVT)
Cost and Reliability Optimization
Design to meet aggressive cost targets:
Drive design trade-offs balancing:
Performance
Manufacturability
Scalability
Improve system KPIs including:
Standby power consumption
Thermal efficiency
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)
Medium voltage DC systems (up to ~200V)
Hands-on experience with:
Current sensing techniques (shunt, differential amplifiers)
Control loop design (PI/PID)
Experience designing systems for:
EMI/EMC robustness
Thermal performance
Reliability and 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)
Electromagnetic or multi-coil actuator systems
Experience in:
High-channel-count control systems
Real-time embedded control architectures
Key Competencies
Success Criteria
Compensation
Base Salary Range: $132,456.81 USD to $179,206.28 USD
Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.
Benefits
At Brooks, we offer the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
Medical, Dental, Vision and Disability Insurance
401(k) Plan
Exempt employees are provided company paid holidays and Flexible Vacation to enjoy personal time off and incidental sickness.
Have a question about our benefits and compensation package? Your recruiter can share more with you during the hiring process.
Work Location & Flexibility
At Brooks, we aim to foster a collaborative and engaging environment while offering flexibility where possible. Work arrangements 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.
Brooks is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and proudly serves as an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.
Diversity enhances our innovative capabilities and strengthens our ability to serve our customers and communities effectively. At Brooks Automation, we celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives each individual brings, believing they are essential to our collective success. Join us in building a workplace where every team member is valued and can thrive.
For applicants with disabilities requiring accommodations, don't hesitate to get in touch with talentattraction@brooks.com or call +1 (978) 262-2400 to discuss your needs.
Review EEO Law & EEO Statement.
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