Hardware Architect

FTC Solar, Inc is hiring a Hardware Architect in Chennai, India, to design innovative hardware solutions for renewable energy systems. Responsibilities include defining hardware architecture, leading battery management system design, integrating motor control, and developing power electronics. The role demands collaboration with cross-functional teams and keeping up with advancements in renewable technologies. Candidates should have a degree in Electrical Engineering and 15+ years of relevant experience.
Company Overview

FTC Solar is a fast-growing, global provider of solar tracker systems, technology, software, and engineering services. We are as passionate about renewable energy as we are about our culture and values. We want to attract like-minded individuals who live and breathe Integrity, Accountability, Innovation, and Excellence. We’re humble enough to know that we don’t know everything, so we love bold ideas that disrupt the status quo. Basically, we don’t want you to just fall in line!

FTC Solar is committed to creating a culture of inclusion and diversity. For us, this is not just a set of words or metrics. It drives our culture, creativity, and future success. We support our employees and foster an environment where new ideas and perspectives are celebrated and encouraged. When our employees thrive, FTC Solar thrives. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

Location : Chennai, India.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate Hardware Architect to lead the design and development of innovative hardware solutions for sustainable energy applications. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of clean energy by integrating battery management systems (BMS), motor control, and power electronics into robust and efficient renewable energy systems. This involves expertise in both the digital and analog domains of electronics design.

Responsibilities
• System Architecture: Define and develop the overall hardware architecture for renewable energy systems, ensuring seamless integration of BMS, motor control, power electronics, and digital communication components.
• BMS Design: Lead the design and optimization of battery management systems, encompassing battery storage solutions, charging/discharging strategies, and battery health monitoring.
• Motor Control and Design: Select and integrate appropriate motor technologies (DC, AC, BLDC) into the renewable energy system, optimizing for performance and efficiency. Develop motor control algorithms and hardware for precise operation.
• Power Electronics: Design and implement power management systems, including power supplies, converters, inverters, and other components for efficient energy conversion and control.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Develop hardware solutions that effectively harness and utilize energy from renewable sources (solar, wind, etc.), incorporating BMS and motor control for optimal energy storage and utilization.
• System Integration and Testing: Oversee the integration of all hardware components, ensuring system reliability, safety, and compliance with industry standards. Conduct thorough testing and validation.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including firmware engineers, software developers, and mechanical engineers, to deliver integrated and optimized solutions.
• Technology Advancement: Stay at the forefront of advancements in renewable energy technologies, battery management systems, motor control, and power electronics.

Qualifications
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in hardware architecture and design, particularly in Battery Management Systems (BMS), motor control, and power electronics.
• Proven experience in designing and developing hardware for renewable energy systems, including hands-on experience with power electronics and digital electronics design.
• Strong understanding of battery management systems (BMS), motor control principles, and power electronics.
• Experience with various motor types (DC, AC, BLDC) and their applications.
• Proficiency in schematic capture and PCB layout tools (e.g., Altium, Eagle).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Bonus Points
• Experience with embedded systems and firmware development.
• Familiarity with different battery chemistries and their characteristics.
• Knowledge of grid integration and energy storage systems.
• Potential for professional growth and development.

Soft Skills
• Leadership: Strong leadership and mentoring skills to guide and motivate a team of engineers through the design and development process.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to solve complex hardware-related issues in a systematic and efficient manner.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with cross-disciplinary teams, including firmware, software, mechanical engineering, and product management teams.