Senior Research Engineer - InnoTract project - Innovative Traction Systems for Future Automotive Systems (all genders) // Job-ID: 133-1

Your future responsibilities

The Research Unit "Architectures & Topologies" of the SAL Power Electronics Division focuses on new topologies for various inverters, the utilisation of newest switching devices and modules as well as the optimisation of passive technologies in power converters.

For the InnoTract project, we are looking for new colleagues to join the project team.

The scope of the InnoTract project ranges from the component level and its integration into the power modules to the system traction inverter, onboard chargers and DC/DC converters through to overall system integration, taking into account thermal design and cooling aspects.

In this role you will consider new concepts for on-board chargers and integrated DC/DC converters, perform simulations, create PCB layouts and finally perform measurements on the hardware in the laboratory. You will lead work packages covering the above tasks and act as an interface between the EMI and thermal/cooling design groups. You will also be expected to support researchers and PhD students in translating the latest concepts and ideas into final hardware and to assist with testing and verification.

Your profile

• MSc degree in power electronics. 
• Experience with AC/DC and DC/DC converters, preferably in the automotive industry.
• At least 3 years of industrial experience in one of the described applications.  
• Knowledge and experience  
  • with wide bandgap power devices, 
  • EMI filter design and conducted emissions 
  • Magnetics design for inductors and transformers, ideally including planar approaches, and 
  • Modelling and control for power converters. 
• Preferred experience with MATLAB/Simulink and PCB design software (e.g. Altium Designer).
• Hands-on mentality - taking ideas through to final hardware. 
• Independent and organised working style. 
• Relocation to Graz / Austria. 
• English language skills are essential to work in our multidisciplinary and multicultural team. 

Important Facts about SAL

• End of the application period: 17 October 2024
• Earliest date of employment: 7 January 2025
• Diverse research activities with many technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Location in the heart of Europe in Austria – relocation support for non-European nationalities.
• Internal and external training opportunities for career development.
• Home office in Austria (max. 40%) and work from anywhere in the European Union possible (< 25%).
• Family & children friendly - actively shaping the compatibility of family and career.
• “Vital4SAL” to promote a healthy workplace (e.g. SAL coaching pool, trainings on mental health, physical activities, healthy snacks, 24/7 accident insurance)
• € 4 per day meal allowance in restaurants or € 2 per working day in supermarkets.
• Public transport initiative (subsidy for the “Klimaticket”)

This position is subject to the Collective Agreement for employees in non-university research (Research CA) starting in occupational group E (E 3 salary = EUR 4.135, paid 14 times a year) based on 38,5 hours per week). For this position we offer competitive salaries and additional benefits based on your experience and qualifications, starting with a minimum salary of EUR 65.000 (annual, based on an All-in contract and bonus).

About us

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for Electronics and Software Based Systems (ESBS). At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire ESBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, intelligent wireless systems, microsystems and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more. SAL brings together key players from industry, science and research and thus valuable expertise and know-how and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. Cooperative projects are co-financed by SAL and enable a fast and unbureaucratic project start. SAL is thus shaping the high-tech location Austria and Europe and developing the future. 

Innovation is our top priority and so are our employees. We are a family-friendly company and support the compatibility of work and family as much as possible. That is why we have been awarded the Work and Family Certificate until 2026. But we are constantly working on new measures to offer our employees an environment where they feel good, healthy and motivated.

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