Nitricity

Electrical Engineer - High Voltage

San Francisco, CA, US

In-personFull time roleMid Level, Senior Level

2 months ago

About the Job

Electrical Engineer - High Voltage & RF Systems

About Nitricity

Nitricity is revolutionizing sustainable agriculture by developing innovative on-site nitrogen fertilizer production technology. We are a dynamic and fast-growing company committed to creating environmentally friendly solutions for food security. Our technology leverages unique electrical systems to generate nitrogen from air and water. We seek a highly motivated and experienced Electrical Engineer with a strong background in high-voltage systems and RF design to join our team and contribute to advancing this critical technology.

Job Summary

The Electrical Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and implementing high-voltage and RF systems that are core to Nitricity's nitrogen fertilizer production technology. This role requires a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovative environment. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of designing and troubleshooting complex electrical systems, focusing on high-voltage and RF applications, specifically in plasma generation or related processes.

Responsibilities

  • Design and Implement 3 Phase 480VAC to Single Phase 120VAC Power Distribution Systems that include Transformers, Circuit Protection, Circuit Control, and Measurement.  
  • Design and Implement Industrial Control Systems that include PLC Controllers, I/O Interfaces for Sensing and Control, VFD Motor Control including programming PID loops.
  • Design and implement control systems for high voltage and RF equipment, including feedback loops, monitoring systems, and safety interlocks, tailored for our unique application.
  • Design, simulate, and prototype high voltage power supplies, pulse generators, and related circuitry crucial for plasma generation and nitrogen fixation.
  • Develop and implement RF circuits, including amplifiers, matching networks, and antennas, to optimize plasma discharge characteristics.
  • Perform detailed circuit analysis and simulations using relevant software tools (e.g., SPICE, HFSS, ADS) to model and optimize electrical performance.
  • Conduct thorough testing and validation of electrical systems, including high voltage breakdown testing, RF performance measurements, plasma diagnostics, and EMI/EMC testing.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical issues related to plasma generation and RF systems, identifying root causes and implementing robust solutions.
  • Develop and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including schematics, PCB layouts, test reports, and design specifications, focusing on clarity and reproducibility.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, chemists, and agricultural scientists, to ensure seamless integration of electrical systems into the overall fertilizer production process.
  • Stay current with the latest advancements in high-voltage, RF, and plasma technology and contribute to developing innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations, exceptionally high voltage safety.
  • Design PCBs, and manage their fabrication.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in electrical engineering, with a strong focus on high voltage and RF systems.
  • Demonstrated expertise in power distribution systems and control panel design with extensive knowledge of UL 508.
  • Demonstrated expertise with industrial control systems and programming PLCs.
  • Demonstrated expertise in high voltage principles, including insulation design, breakdown phenomena, and safety considerations, preferably related to plasma or similar applications.
  • Proven experience in designing and implementing RF circuits, including impedance matching, transmission line theory, and antenna design, with a focus on power RF.
  • Proficiency in circuit simulation and analysis tools (e.g., SPICE, HFSS, ADS).
  • Experience with high voltage testing equipment and RF measurement instruments (e.g., oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers).
  • Knowledge of control systems design and implementation, particularly for pulsed power applications.
  • Experience with PCB design and layout software (e.g., Altium Designer, Eagle).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently address complex technical challenges.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.  
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced startup environment.  
  • Familiarity with EMI/EMC standards and testing procedures.
  • A passion for sustainability and contributing to environmentally friendly solutions.
  • Experience with plasma physics or related areas is a significant plus.

Benefits

  • $170,000-$190,000
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation
  • 7 company holidays and 2 floating holidays
  • Medical and Dental insurance
  • Parental leave
  • 401k plan with matching
  • Commuter Benefits

About the Company

Nitricity Logo

Nitricity

San Francisco, CA, USA

21-50

<p>Nitricity is a startup addressing climate change. We are&nbsp; innovating in an essential chemical industry that supports global food systems. The bedrock of modern agriculture is the production, distribution, and application of the essential nutrients found in fertilizers. However, nitrogen fertilizer is currently made in coal- and gas-fired facilities located hundreds to thousands of miles away from farmers who need it. The $120B industry is responsible for as much as 6% of global CO2eq emissions. Nitricity Inc. has developed a new technology that produces fertilizer using air, water, and renewable electricity (e.g., solar). Growers will have access to a more reliable, low cost, and environmentally friendly fertilizer supply. We are actively growing our&nbsp; team to help us turn this vision into a reality.</p>