Contract Opportunity: Power Electronics Engineer (OUTSIDE IR35 – QDOS Assessed)
Location: Henley-on-Thames (Hybrid – Majority Onsite)
Duration: 12 Months (with likely extension)
Rate: Competitive – DOE (Outside IR35)
Start Date: ASAP
IR35 Status: Outside IR35 (QDOS assessed)
Overview:
An experienced Power Electronics Engineer is required for a contract position (Outside IR35) to support the design, development, and qualification of high-reliability AC-DC and DC-DC power conversion systems. These systems are next-generation Civilian avionics systems and the role involves working closely with multi-disciplinary teams on a hybrid basis, with a majority onsite presence in Henley-on-Thames.
This is a hands-on role for a contractor with significant expertise in power conversion, EMI/EMC compliance, MIL-STD-461G, and environmental qualification of ruggedised systems.
Key Responsibilities:
Design & Development
* Design wide-range AC-DC front-end converters (85–265 VAC to regulated DC rails).
* Develop isolated and non-isolated DC-DC converters for RF, digital, and control subsystems.
* Optimise power designs for efficiency, thermal performance, reliability, and compactness.
EMC / EMI Compliance
* Ensure compliance with MIL-STD-461G and relevant EMI/EMC standards.
* Apply best-practice filtering, shielding, grounding, and PCB layout techniques.
Testing & Validation
* Develop and execute test procedures for performance and EMC compliance.
* Conduct lab validation using oscilloscopes, spectrum analysers, LISNs, and other test equipment.
* Support rugged qualification testing (temp, humidity, vibration, shock).
Integration & Collaboration
* Work closely with RF, digital, and mechanical engineers for power system integration.
* Support design reviews, FMEA/FTA, and reliability analysis.
Documentation & Compliance
* Produce high-quality schematics, design documentation, test reports, and certification evidence.
Candidate Requirements:
Essential:
* Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
* 10+ years of experience in power electronics design, integration, and testing.
* Proven experience in AC-DC and DC-DC converter design (up to kW range desirable).
* In-depth knowledge of EMI/EMC principles and MIL-STD-461G.
* Hands-on expertise with PCB layout for power and EMC performance.
* Skilled in simulation tools: PSPICE, LTspice, MATLAB/Simulink.
* Proficient in lab validation and use of EMC test equipment.
Desirable:
* Experience with power factor correction (PFC) topologies.
* Familiarity with ruggedised systems for defence/field deployments.
* Knowledge of thermal management and environmental protection.
* Experience working with compliance/certification bodies.
* Exposure to automated power and EMC test setups.
Why Apply?
* OUTSIDE IR35 (QDOS assessed)
* Work on advanced satellite ground terminals with real-world application
* High-impact, technically challenging project
* Opportunity to contribute to a multi-disciplinary engineering environment
* Three days onsite and two from home
Application Process:
If you are a seasoned Power Electronics Engineer looking for your next OUTSIDE IR35 contract, please apply with an up-to-date CV highlighting relevant experience. Immediate availability or short notice is preferred.