Lead R&D Engineer - MV/HV Cable Systems

JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a Lead R&D Engineer to join the UL Solutions global R&D team. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in high voltage engineering and power cable systems, particularly in testing, inspection and certification services. This role involves developing new testing technologies and improving existing procedures and services, providing technical leadership internally and externally, representing UL in industrial and technical committees, guiding business development based on market trends and industrial needs, and supporting/leading the successful implementation and execution of complex high voltage cable projects. This role reports to the R&D Director and will work closely with Engineering and Product Management teams in Engineered Materials and other business units to drive both the technical development and business growth at UL Solutions.
This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days per week in the office. Northbrook, IL office preferred.
RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Technical Expertise:
   • Stay current with industry trends, standards, and technological advancements in energy and utilities.
   • Provide expert advice and expertise on medium- and high-voltage (MV/HV) power cable systems, including testing, inspection and certification throughout the entire cable life cycle.
   • Technical insight of insulation breakdown theories, material aging mechanisms, and practical experiences with testing technologies for high voltage engineering and dielectric materials, such as partial discharge, dielectric loss, breakdown/withstand test, time domain reflectometry, etc.
   • Provide advice and technical solutions based on the client's requirements and circuit configurations; analyze and troubleshoot complex technical issues related to power cable systems.
2. Innovation and Improvement:
   • Identify opportunities for process improvements and technological advancements.
   • Contribute to the development of new products/services, solutions, and methodologies based on the market needs and trends.
   • Participate in research and development activities to drive innovation in TIC for MV/HV cable systems.
   • Share knowledge and best practices with team members to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
3. Project Support:
   • Conduct technical assessments and feasibility studies for high voltage projects.
   • Support project teams with technical expertise throughout the project lifecycle.
   • Assist, support and lead in the development of project plans and ensure technical alignment with project goals.
4. Team Collaboration:
   • Collaborate with sales, engineering, and other technical teams to ensure cohesive project execution.
   • Mentor and provide guidance to junior engineers and technical staff.
   • Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices within the team.
5. Client Engagement (when needed):
   • Act as the primary technical contact for clients, addressing their needs and concerns effectively.
   • Conduct presentations and technical workshops for clients and stakeholders.
   • Provide recommendations and solutions that align with client objectives and project constraints.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in electrical engineering, power systems, or a related field. Ph.D. is a plus.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience (Ph.D. is counted as 2 years of working experience) in the high voltage power cable industry, with focus on research, technical and product development, and/or testing and inspection services.
• In-depth knowledge of MV/HV power cable systems (AC and DC cables, land and submarine cables, with voltage rating 5kV up to 500kVAC and 525kVDC), including design, installation, testing, and maintenance.
• Wealth of knowledge and experiences in testing technologies for high voltage engineering, including lab tests (thermal aging, AC/DC breakdown, impulse breakdown, etc.), diagnostic tests (tan delta, partial discharge, withstand, neutral corrosion, etc.), fault location, forensic analysis, etc.
• Knowledge of finite element methods, transient analysis, and power system simulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and proven leadership capabilities.
• Hands-on experience and comfortable working in a lab or field to develop solutions based on inquiries.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a cross-functional team to deliver results.
• Passionate to learn new technologies and skills.
• English language proficiency and demonstrated skills in technical writing and public speaking.

What we offer:

• Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. The estimated salary range for this position is $123,900-$165,200 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).

Learn More:
Curious? To learn more about us and the work we do, visit our company page www.UL.com
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ABOUT US
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.
ABOUT THE TEAM
You might not see them, but wires and cables make the world go round. And wherever they are, we test them - from wearable medical devices and mobile phones to cables that span oceans and scale buildings. Whether they're strapped to electrical towers or analyzing data, our engineers test products that are advancing exciting developments in AI, sustainable energy and the electrification of everything. That's why we're looking for ambitious people who want to work on diverse, dynamic projects that help to create a safer and more sustainable future. Join our team, spark innovation and spark the next generation of safety science.