Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire Career Overview

As a Power Electronics Engineer, you focus on the design, development, and application of electronic devices that manage and convert electrical power efficiently. Your role is essential in a variety of sectors, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and industrial automation.

Key responsibilities typically include:

  • Developing converters, inverters, and rectifiers that facilitate the efficient transfer of electrical energy.
  • Conducting simulations and prototype testing to ensure that designs meet performance standards and reliability requirements.
  • Collaborating with other engineers and stakeholders to integrate power electronics into larger systems, improving overall efficiency and functionality.
  • Staying updated with advancements in technology and industry standards to implement innovative solutions that enhance energy management and sustainability.

The importance of your work lies in its impact on energy consumption and environmental sustainability. By enhancing the efficiency of power systems, you contribute to reducing energy waste and supporting the transition to greener energy sources. Your expertise helps industries strive for lower operational costs and improved performance, making your role vital in driving technological advancements in the power electronics sector.

Power Electronics Engineer Salary in New Hampshire

Annual Median: $107,240
Hourly Median: $51.56

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire

To become a Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire, you will need to complete specific educational programs that provide the necessary knowledge and skills in the field of electronics and engineering. Consider the following degree options:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering

    • This program typically covers the fundamentals of electrical systems, circuit design, and electronics. You will learn about power systems, control systems, and the design of electronic devices.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology

    • This degree focuses on practical applications of engineering principles, including telecommunications and circuit design, and prepares you for hands-on work in the industry.
  • Associate's Degree or Certificate in Electrician Technology

    • Completing this program can provide foundational knowledge in electrical systems and wiring, which is essential for understanding power distribution and electronic applications.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electronic and Communications Engineering

    • This program emphasizes electronic communication systems and prepares students for work in various electronics fields, including power electronics.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electromechanical Engineering

    • This interdisciplinary program combines electrical engineering and mechanical engineering principles, which is beneficial for understanding the integration of electrical circuits and mechanical systems in power electronics applications.

In addition to formal education, participating in internships or cooperative education programs while studying can provide valuable hands-on experience, further enhancing your qualifications in this field.

Best Schools to become a Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire 2024

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:45,307

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

Elizabethtown, KY

In-State Tuition:$4,368
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,288
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:42%
Total Enrollment:5,648

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

In-State Tuition:$59,864
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,864
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:16,002

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

In-State Tuition:$10,258
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,370
Admission Rate:17%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:45,296

Owensboro Community and Technical College

Owensboro, KY

In-State Tuition:$4,368
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,288
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:47%
Total Enrollment:4,621
Power Electronics Engineer Job Description:
  • Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties.
  • Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.

Power Electronics Engineer Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire

To excel as a Power Electronics Engineer, you will need to develop a range of specialized skills and competencies, including the following:

  • Circuit Design and Analysis
    Proficiency in designing and analyzing power circuits, including the use of simulation tools such as SPICE or MATLAB.

  • Knowledge of Power Electronics Devices
    Familiarity with various power devices including diodes, transistors, MOSFETs, IGBTs, and their operational characteristics is essential.

  • Control Theory
    Understanding control systems and feedback loops is critical for designing effective power converters and inverters.

  • Thermal Management
    Skills in thermal analysis and management techniques to ensure the reliability and efficiency of power electronic systems.

  • Electromagnetic Compatibility
    Knowledge of EMC principles and testing methods to ensure that power electronics designs meet regulatory standards.

  • Embedded Systems Knowledge
    Ability to work with embedded systems and microcontrollers for control and automation of power electronic devices.

  • Programming Proficiency
    Competence in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python for modeling, simulation, and embedded system programming.

  • Problem-Solving Skills
    Strong analytical and problem-solving ability to troubleshoot and optimize power electronic circuits and systems.

  • Project Management
    Experience in managing projects, including planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.

  • Interpersonal Communication
    Effective communication skills to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams and to convey complex technical information clearly.

  • Attention to Detail
    A meticulous approach to ensure precision in design, testing, and documentation of power electronics systems.

  • Continuous Learning
    A commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in power electronics technology, industry trends, and innovative practices.

Developing and refining these skills will enhance your capabilities as a Power Electronics Engineer and prepare you for success in the industry.

Job Duties for Power Electronics Engineers

  • Design electronic components, software, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, medical, military, or scientific applications.

  • Evaluate project work to ensure effectiveness, technical adequacy, or compatibility in the resolution of complex electronics engineering problems.

  • Operate computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform electronics engineering tasks.

Technologies and Skills Used by Power Electronics Engineers

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks

Development environment software

  • C
  • National Instruments LabVIEW

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire

The job market for Power Electronics Engineers in New Hampshire is currently characterized by a strong demand driven by the ongoing transition towards renewable energy and the increasing reliance on advanced electronic systems in various industries. Here are some key aspects of this market:

  • Demand:

    • There is a rising need for Power Electronics Engineers to develop efficient energy conversion systems, which play a critical role in renewable energy applications like solar inverters and wind turbines.
    • Industries such as automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and consumer electronics are actively seeking engineers with expertise in power electronics to enhance efficiency and performance in their products.
  • Growth Potential:

    • Job opportunities in this field are expected to grow, consistent with national trends in engineering and technology, driven by advancements in electric vehicles and smart grid technology.
    • The ongoing development of energy-efficient power supplies and the implementation of next-generation battery systems reveal sustained growth trajectories for professionals skilled in power electronics.
  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Key regions in New Hampshire showing significant opportunities include areas with a strong technology and manufacturing presence, particularly in cities like Manchester, Nashua, and Concord.
    • The proximity to universities and research institutions adds to the innovation ecosystem, creating potential collaborations and job openings in the sector.
    • Additionally, New Hampshire's strategic location in the Northeast provides access to nearby markets, further enhancing job prospects for Power Electronics Engineers looking to work with leading tech firms and startups.

Being aware of these dynamics will equip you to navigate the evolving landscape of the power electronics industry in New Hampshire, positioning yourself for emerging opportunities.

Top Related Careers to Power Electronics Engineer 2024

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

    • A leading organization in electrical and electronics engineering, offering a wealth of professional resources, journals, and conferences.
    • Website: IEEE
  • Power Electronics Society (PELS)

    • A sub-organization of IEEE that focuses on the advancement of power electronics, providing publications, resources, and networking opportunities.
    • Website: PELS
  • International Rectifier (IR)

    • Recognized for its leadership in power management technologies, this site offers technical resources, data sheets, and application notes relevant to power electronics.
    • Website: International Rectifier
  • National Instruments (NI)

    • Provides a variety of tools and educational resources for power electronics, including software for simulation and data acquisition.
    • Website: National Instruments
  • Texas Instruments (TI)

    • This site offers a range of technical documentation, reference designs, and resources specifically aimed at power electronics applications.
    • Website: Texas Instruments
  • Electronic Design

    • An online publication that provides articles, blogs, and tutorials on various aspects of electronic engineering, including power electronics.
    • Website: Electronic Design
  • Power Electronics Magazine

    • A resource for the latest trends, technical articles, and product information in the power electronics industry.
    • Website: Power Electronics Magazine
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

    • Offers research and development insights into renewable energy technologies including power electronics applications in energy systems.
    • Website: NREL
  • Coursera and edX

    • Platforms that provide online courses related to power electronics, circuit design, and related engineering topics from leading universities.
    • Website: Coursera | edX
  • Books and Textbooks

    • Consider authoritative titles such as:
      • "Power Electronics: Converter Fundamentals and Design" by Robert W. Erickson
      • "Fundamentals of Power Electronics" by RK Rajput

For additional technical papers and research articles, consider accessing Google Scholar or ResearchGate to find peer-reviewed papers and publications in the field of power electronics engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire

  • What is the role of a Power Electronics Engineer? A Power Electronics Engineer designs, develops, and tests electronic systems that control and convert electrical power. This includes applications in various fields such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and industrial automation.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Power Electronics Engineer? Typically, you will need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or higher. Hands-on experience and internships in power electronics are also beneficial.

  • What skills are essential for a Power Electronics Engineer? Key skills include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, proficiency in circuit design and simulation tools, knowledge of power semiconductor devices, and familiarity with control theory and embedded systems.

  • What is the job outlook for Power Electronics Engineers in New Hampshire? The job outlook for Power Electronics Engineers remains positive, especially as industries increasingly focus on energy efficiency and renewable technologies. Growth opportunities can arise in sectors like automotive, telecommunications, and manufacturing.

  • What industries employ Power Electronics Engineers? You will find Power Electronics Engineers in various industries, including automotive (especially electric vehicles), renewable energy (solar and wind), aerospace, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.

  • What is the typical salary range for a Power Electronics Engineer in New Hampshire? Salaries can vary depending on experience and industry, but the average salary for Power Electronics Engineers in New Hampshire typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 per year.

  • Are there professional organizations or resources for Power Electronics Engineers? Yes, organizations such as the IEEE Power Electronics Society provide resources, networking opportunities, and professional development. Additionally, you may want to explore resources from local engineering societies and conferences.

  • What advanced education options are available for Power Electronics Engineers? You can pursue a master's degree or Ph.D. in electrical engineering with a focus on power electronics or related fields. Continuing education courses and certifications can also enhance your expertise and career prospects.

  • What kind of projects might I work on as a Power Electronics Engineer? Projects may include designing converters for renewable energy systems, developing power systems for electric vehicles, creating power supplies for electronic devices, or improving energy efficiency in industrial equipment.

  • How can I gain experience in power electronics? Internships, co-op programs, and research projects during your studies can provide valuable experience. Participating in engineering competitions and collaborating with faculty on projects can also enhance your practical skills.