Hardware Engineer – Magnetics Design Focus

The devices we make at SEL are embedded in the power grid and critical infrastructure. They prevent blackouts, control processes, and reliably communicate critical information. They make outages safer and shorter in duration; they monitor infrastructure to prevent outages and record critical data to inform decisions; and they add cybersecurity, automation, and communication.

SEL products and technologies are critical for the safe, reliable operation of power systems and critical infrastructure around the world, so our products are built with the highest-quality components in SEL facilities by SEL employees. As a Hardware Engineer in  Research and Development, you'll specify, design, and test these devices and support them over the long lifetime of SEL products in the same place where those products are manufactured.

As a Hardware Engineer with an electromagnetics design focus, a typical day might include the following:

- Analyze, design, develop, prototype and test custom magnetic components.  Conducts moderate to complex design reviews to demonstrate product and circuit robustness.

- Design and optimize magnetic current sensors including CTs (instrument class, protection class) and Rogowski Coils for various frequency and current ranges.

- Perform analytical calculations and electromagnetic simulations (e.g., using FEM tools such as ANSYS Maxwell or similar).

- Specify magnetic core materials, winding configurations, insulation systems, and encapsulation methods.

- Develop and execute test plans to validate accuracy, linearity, bandwidth, thermal behavior, and environmental compliance.

- Develops hardware specifications and prepares system level specifications.

- Provides and maintains accurate project plans. Manages and/or leads hardware projects of moderate complexity. Coordinates engineering activities with purchasing and manufacturing.

- Mentors and directs the efforts of associate engineers and technicians.

- Collaborate with mechanical and manufacturing engineers to ensure sensor designs are cost-effective and manufacturable.

- Interface with firmware and hardware teams to integrate sensors into complete systems (e.g., power meters, relays, fault indicators).

- Prepare design documentation, including schematics, drawings, and test reports.

- Ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., IEC 61869, IEEE C57.13, UL, CE, RoHS).

​This job might be for you if:

You have a B.S. in Electrical/Electromechanical Engineering or related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Solid understanding of electromagnetic theory, transformer design principles, and signal conditioning.

Typically 2+ years of experience in a selection of these or related areas:

Magnetic component design

CTs/PTs/Rogowski coils

Inductors

SMPS magnetic components

Creepage, clearance, insulation systems

Power harvesting magnetic components

Magnetic latches

Electric motors/generators

Magnetic shields

Other magnetic assemblies

Electromagnetic Fields/Wave Analysis

Electromagnetic compatibility

Maxwell’s equations

Components and Packaging

Component derating

Thermal management

PCB planning

Preferred Skills:

Experience designing low-power or energy-harvesting sensors.

Knowledge of Rogowski coil integration in digital signal processing systems.

Background in industrial or utility-grade instrumentation.

Location

Pullman, WA- This position is located in Pullman, WA. Nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy a​ccess to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area.

West Lafayette, IN- This position is located in West Lafayette, IN, best known as the home of Purdue University. West Lafayette is situated directly across the Wabash River and is a short drive to Indianapolis and Chicago. The city is characterized by its strong academic presence, diverse community, and a variety of recreational opportunities, making it a dynamic place to live and visit.​

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

- We’re 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

- We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

- We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

- We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

- Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.