Senior Power Systems Engineer (Firmware & Control)

Senior Power Systems Engineer (Firmware & Control)

San Mateo, CA - Hybrid (4 days onsite)

Compensation: 150-175K

ZOLA Electric is on a mission to solve one of the world's biggest challenges: energy inequality. Over 3 billion people globally live without reliable power. We're changing that. Our team is developing the next generation of distributed energy systems to empower communities in emerging markets with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity.

We're looking for a Senior Power Systems Engineer with deep expertise in firmware and embedded systems to drive the development of our advanced energy products - from design through to deployment. If you're passionate about building solutions that matter and want to work on solar, battery storage, and microgrid technologies, this role is for you.

Quick Fit Check:

5+ years in electrical/power systems design and embedded controls

Expertise in firmware for energy hardware (solar, battery, inverter)

Experience with real-time control systems (MIL/SIL/HIL)

Familiar with industry safety and test standards (UL, CE, etc.)

Comfortable working onsite in San Mateo, CA - Hybrid schedule

What You'll Do:

Design embedded firmware and analog/digital systems for power electronics (solar, battery, inverter)

Lead PCB layout, circuit design, and EVT/DVT prototype testing in Altium

Develop and validate models for microgrid control, peer-to-peer energy sharing, and demand response

Create preventive maintenance tools and battery health management algorithms

Execute system-level diagnostics, failure prognostics, and fault detection processes

Translate product requirements into testable engineering specifications

Collaborate across hardware, firmware, and mechanical design to optimize system performance

Drive DFMEAs, Design for Reliability (DFR), and test plans for compliance and environmental resilience

Interface directly with contract manufacturers in Asia to support transition to high-volume production

What You Bring:

Must-Have Experience:

Degree in Electrical Engineering or related; PhD a plus

5+ years designing analog/digital systems and embedded firmware

Deep understanding of power electronics and system architecture

Familiar with lab tools: oscilloscopes, signal generators, etc.

Fluent in Python, MATLAB, Simulink, and/or LabVIEW

Experience with compliance and EMI/EMC testing (UL, CE, FCC, etc.)

Nice-to-Have:

Experience with distributed microgrid control and peer-to-peer energy

Familiar with simulation tools (PLECS, Simscape, etc.)

Background in machine learning or predictive analytics for energy systems

Knowledge of wireless protocols (Bluetooth, Cellular, Wi-Fi)

Why ZOLA?

At ZOLA, you'll work with mission-driven technologists and innovators on a global stage. Our technology stack spans hardware, AI-enabled control systems, and SaaS applications - all built to bring energy access to those who need it most.

Our Perks:

Competitive salary + performance bonus + equity

Health benefits

401(k), FSA/HSA, commuter benefits

Flexible PTO + 12 paid holidays

Paid lunches, snacks, and team events

Next Steps: