Prototyping Validation Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Prototyping Validation Engineer Company: Enphase Energy Location: Petaluma, California, United States / Fremont, California, United States Job Type: Full Time Employee (Experienced) Category: Engineering - Electrical & Mechanical Operations Date Posted: October 09, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the design, prototyping, and validation of high-volume custom magnetics, with a specific focus on medium voltage (up to 100kV) isolation-rated transformers.
• Expand and maintain laboratory capabilities with a strong emphasis on medium voltage safety protocols and operational readiness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and supply chain partners to ensure seamless product development and manufacturing.
• Conduct rigorous performance testing and validation of magnetic components, ensuring they meet stringent quality and performance standards in a high-volume production environment.
• Contribute to a multi-physics optimization flow, integrating electronic, magnetic, thermal, structural, and costing knowledge to design built-for-purpose transformers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for Enphase Energy's expansion into medium voltage transformer design and manufacturing. The "Prototyping Validation Engineer" title, combined with responsibilities around lab expansion, safety, and hands-on validation in a medium voltage environment, strongly indicates a need for deep practical engineering expertise rather than purely theoretical or management functions. The emphasis on "high volume custom magnetics" and "supply chain partners" suggests a role that bridges design, development, and manufacturing readiness.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a safe and compliant medium voltage laboratory environment, including necessary infrastructure, safety equipment, and operational procedures.
• Design, build, and test prototype magnetic components, particularly transformers, to validate theoretical designs and identify potential improvements.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for performance validation, including electrical, thermal, structural, and safety assessments relevant to medium voltage applications.
• Analyze test data, identify root causes for deviations, and provide actionable recommendations for design iterations and process improvements to engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Work closely with supply chain partners to ensure the quality, performance, and manufacturability of custom magnetic components at scale.
• Document all prototyping, testing, and validation activities, maintaining detailed records for design history files, regulatory compliance, and knowledge transfer.
• Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews, contributing expertise on magnetics, medium voltage principles, and manufacturing feasibility.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in magnetics design, medium voltage systems, and product validation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are inferred based on the job title and the explicit mention of expanding a lab with medium voltage capability and safety, building prototypes, and validating performance. This implies a hands-on engineering role focused on the practical aspects of bringing new magnetic component designs into production, with a particular emphasis on the specialized requirements of medium voltage systems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master of Science (M.Sc) degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) or Electrical Engineering (EE).

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in hands-on prototyping and validation within a medium voltage environment.
• Proven track record in designing, building, and testing custom magnetic components, with a strong preference for transformers.
• Experience with laboratory setup, safety protocols, and equipment for medium voltage testing.

Required Skills:

• Medium Voltage Expertise: Deep understanding of medium voltage (up to 100kV) principles, safety standards, and testing methodologies.
• Hands-on Prototyping: Demonstrated ability to build and assemble complex prototypes, particularly magnetic components.
• Performance Validation: Proficiency in developing and executing test plans, analyzing test data, and interpreting results for electrical, thermal, and structural performance.
• Lab Safety & Practice: Strong focus on established lab practices, hazard identification, risk assessment, and implementing robust safety procedures for medium voltage environments.
• Magnetics Design Principles: Solid understanding of magnetic circuit design, core materials, winding techniques, and transformer theory.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues encountered during prototyping and validation phases.
• Technical Documentation: Excellent skills in documenting designs, test procedures, results, and recommendations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with multi-physics simulation and optimization tools for magnetic component design.
• Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and manufacturing processes for high-volume components.
• Experience working with supply chain partners and managing component quality.
• Knowledge of power electronics and their interaction with magnetic components.
• Familiarity with renewable energy technologies, such as solar and battery storage systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly specify an M.Sc in ME/EE and 5+ years of hands-on experience in a medium voltage environment. The skills listed are derived from the core responsibilities and the explicit mention of "hands-on prototyping and validation in a medium voltage environment" and "strong focus on lab practice and safety." Preferred skills are inferred from the broader context of Enphase Energy's operations and the nature of advanced component design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Prototyping Case Studies: Showcase examples of complex prototypes designed and built, detailing the challenges, materials used, and the iterative development process.
• Validation Test Reports: Provide samples of comprehensive validation reports, demonstrating your ability to design rigorous test plans, execute them accurately, and analyze results to drive design improvements.
• Medium Voltage Safety Protocols: Illustrate your understanding and implementation of safety procedures specific to medium voltage environments, potentially through documented protocols or risk assessments.
• Process Improvement Examples: Highlight instances where your work led to quantifiable improvements in component performance, reliability, manufacturing efficiency, or cost reduction.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to map out and document the end-to-end process for prototyping and validating magnetic components, from initial design stages to final sign-off.
• Test Procedure Development: Skill in creating clear, concise, and repeatable test procedures for performance and safety validation.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Proficiency in documenting data collection methods, analysis techniques, and generating clear, actionable reports for technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an engineering role focused on prototyping and validation, a portfolio is crucial. The emphasis on "hands-on" and "validation" implies a need to demonstrate practical experience and the ability to document technical processes and results. The specific mention of "medium voltage capability & safety" and "performance" directly informs the expected portfolio content.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $105,000 - $205,200 per year Benefits:

• Bonus compensation
• Equity (Stock Options/Grants)
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k)
• Paid time off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays)
• Potential for professional development and training

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime as dictated by project needs and deadlines.
• Flexibility may be available for specific tasks, but regular on-site presence is required due to the nature of lab work and prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and benefits are directly provided in the job description. The working hours are inferred from the "Full Time Employee (Experienced)" designation and the "On-site" work arrangement, with a note about potential overtime common in engineering roles. The note about "regular presence in Petaluma, CA" reinforces the on-site nature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Technology, Renewable Energy, Manufacturing Company Size: Enphase Energy is a significant player in the clean energy sector, employing thousands globally. (Company size data not directly provided, but inferred from global presence and product shipments). Founded: 2006. Enphase Energy has established itself as a leader through innovative microinverter technology, demonstrating a history of technological advancement and market disruption.

Team Structure:

• The Prototyping Validation Engineer will likely be part of a dedicated magnetics engineering team, potentially within a larger R&D or Product Development department.
• This team is based in Petaluma, CA, with potential touchpoints with colleagues in Fremont, CA, and other global locations.
• The role requires close collaboration with electrical engineers, thermal engineers, mechanical designers, supply chain managers, and manufacturing engineers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data from simulations, prototypes, and validation tests to inform design decisions and optimize performance.
• Iterative Development: A cyclical approach to design, build, test, and refine, particularly crucial for complex components like custom magnetics.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong emphasis on seamless communication and teamwork across different engineering disciplines and departments to achieve project goals.
• Quality Focus: Commitment to high standards in design, manufacturing, and testing to ensure product reliability and customer satisfaction.

Company Website: https://enphase.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information is drawn directly from the provided description. The "Methodology" section infers standard engineering development practices common in technology companies focused on hardware and manufacturing, especially those emphasizing optimization and quality.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced individual contributor, likely falling into a mid-to-senior level engineering track. It is not a management role but requires significant technical depth and autonomy. Reporting Structure: The Prototyping Validation Engineer will likely report to a Magnetics Engineering Manager or a Senior Engineering Lead within the R&D or Product Development organization. Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of Enphase Energy's products, particularly their power conversion systems which rely heavily on transformers. Successful validation of medium voltage transformers is key to expanding Enphase's product portfolio and market reach.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in medium voltage magnetics, advanced materials, and testing methodologies, potentially becoming a subject matter expert.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead technical aspects of projects, mentor junior engineers, and influence design decisions across teams.
• New Technology Development: Contribute to the development and implementation of next-generation energy technologies and magnetic component designs.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Drive initiatives to enhance prototyping efficiency, validation rigor, and lab safety protocols.
• Potential Transition: Opportunities might arise to move into design engineering, advanced R&D, or even specialized manufacturing engineering roles focused on magnetics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis is based on the "Experienced" employment type, the specific technical responsibilities, and the company's focus on innovation. Growth opportunities are typical for senior individual contributors in engineering organizations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role requiring significant time in a laboratory setting. The company likely offers modern office spaces for collaboration and administrative tasks. Office Location(s): The core team is located in Petaluma, CA, with collaboration expected with colleagues in Fremont, CA. Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Focus: The primary workspace will be a medium voltage laboratory, equipped with specialized testing equipment, safety apparatus, and prototyping tools.
• Collaborative Spaces: Access to meeting rooms, shared office areas, and potentially engineering workstations for design and analysis tasks.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with a dedicated team of engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour workweek is expected, the demanding nature of prototyping and validation, especially with medium voltage equipment, may necessitate flexible hours or occasional overtime to meet project milestones and ensure safety protocols are strictly followed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature and the explicit mention of a "physical nature of this work" and "regular presence in Petaluma" strongly indicate a lab-centric environment. The description also mentions collaboration with Fremont, suggesting a hybrid on-site model or inter-site collaboration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications to assess fit for the role's technical requirements, particularly medium voltage experience and prototyping skills.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your understanding of magnetics, medium voltage principles, validation methodologies, and lab safety. Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving exercises.
• Hands-on/Lab Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to discuss specific past projects in detail or walk through a hypothetical lab setup or test procedure, demonstrating your practical knowledge.
• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: A discussion to assess your cultural fit, collaboration style, and how you would integrate into the existing team.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or cross-functional stakeholders.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, highlight specific metrics: e.g., "Reduced prototype build time by X%," "Achieved Y% improvement in transformer efficiency," "Successfully validated under Z kV conditions."
• Showcase Medium Voltage Expertise: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates experience with medium voltage systems, safety protocols, and relevant testing equipment.
• Detail the Process: For each case study, explain your role, the problem, your approach (design, build, test), the outcome, and lessons learned.
• Visual Aids: Include diagrams, schematics, photos of prototypes, and charts of test data where appropriate to visually communicate your work.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects most relevant to custom magnetics, transformers, and validation in a high-volume manufacturing context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Medium Voltage Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach setting up a new medium voltage lab, troubleshooting a specific transformer failure, or ensuring safety during a high-voltage test.
• Prototyping Workflow: Articulate your typical process for taking a design from concept to a validated prototype, including key decision points and potential bottlenecks.
• Data Interpretation: Practice explaining technical data and its implications for design improvements or production readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio process is inferred to be rigorous given the specialized and safety-critical nature of medium voltage engineering. The emphasis on "hands-on prototyping and validation" and "lab practice and safety" necessitates a portfolio that tangibly demonstrates these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping Equipment: Oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, power supplies, function generators, soldering stations, winding machines, specialized medium voltage test fixtures.
• Safety Equipment: High-voltage probes, safety interlocks, insulated tools, personal protective equipment (PPE) for electrical hazards.
• Mechanical Design Software: CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for fixture design and component layout.
• Electrical/Magnetic Simulation Software: Tools like ANSYS Maxwell, COMSOL Multiphysics, or similar for multi-physics analysis and design optimization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Acquisition Systems: For collecting performance data during validation tests.
• Spreadsheet Software: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets for data analysis and basic charting.
• Statistical Software (Optional): Tools like Minitab or R for more advanced statistical analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this technical role, but proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana) may be beneficial for tracking tasks and progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is derived from the core responsibilities of a "Prototyping Validation Engineer" in a medium voltage magnetics context, emphasizing hands-on lab equipment, simulation tools, and data analysis capabilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to safety in all laboratory operations, especially when working with high voltages.
• Innovation: Driving advancements in energy technology through creative problem-solving and the development of novel solutions.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in design, execution, and product performance.
• Collaboration: Working effectively in cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals and foster a supportive environment.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Relying on rigorous testing and analysis to guide engineering choices.

Collaboration Style:

• Technical Exchange: Open sharing of ideas, data, and challenges within the engineering team.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactive engagement with design, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure alignment and smooth product transitions.
• Constructive Feedback: A culture where feedback is given and received constructively to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Company values are inferred from Enphase Energy's mission as an innovative energy technology leader and the inherent requirements of a medium voltage engineering role which prioritizes safety and precision.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Medium Voltage Safety Management: Continuously ensuring the highest level of safety in a lab environment with inherent high-voltage risks.
• Complex System Integration: Successfully integrating custom medium voltage magnetics into larger energy systems, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
• Scalability to High Volume: Transitioning designs from prototype to high-volume manufacturing while maintaining strict quality and performance standards.
• Rapid Innovation Cycles: Keeping pace with the fast-evolving energy technology landscape and adapting designs accordingly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced training in medium voltage systems, magnetics design, and testing methodologies.
• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events and learn about emerging trends and technologies.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers within Enphase Energy and potentially through external professional networks.
• Exposure to New Technologies: Working on cutting-edge renewable energy products and contributing to sustainable technology development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the specific technical domain (medium voltage, high volume manufacturing) and the company's positioning in a rapidly growing industry. Growth opportunities are standard for experienced engineers in technology firms.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Medium Voltage Safety: "Describe a time you encountered a significant safety hazard in a high-voltage lab. How did you address it, and what measures did you implement to prevent future occurrences?"
• Prototyping Process: "Walk me through your typical process for prototyping a custom magnetic component, from receiving specifications to final validation. What are the critical checkpoints?"
• Data Analysis & Troubleshooting: "Imagine a prototype transformer fails a critical performance test. What steps would you take to diagnose the root cause, and how would you document your findings and recommendations?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Enphase Energy and our mission in renewable energy?"
• "How do you approach collaboration with different engineering disciplines (e.g., mechanical, electrical, manufacturing)?"
• "Describe a situation where you had to adapt your approach due to project constraints or changing requirements."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your progression through the prototyping and validation lifecycle.
• Highlight Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem you solved, your specific contribution, the methods used, and the quantifiable results (performance improvements, cost savings, risk mitigation).
• Focus on Medium Voltage: Ensure a significant portion of your presented work directly relates to medium voltage systems and demonstrates your expertise in this area.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed technical questions about any project you present, including materials, design choices, and test interpretation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the specific requirements of a Prototyping Validation Engineer role, focusing on safety, practical engineering skills, and the ability to articulate technical processes and results.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided jobvite.com link.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with medium voltage systems, custom magnetics, prototyping, and validation. Use keywords from the job description such as "medium voltage," "transformers," "prototyping," "validation," "lab safety," and "electrical engineering." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.
• Portfolio Curation: Prepare a portfolio that showcases your most relevant projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating your hands-on prototyping skills, rigorous validation processes, and your understanding of medium voltage safety protocols. Include clear documentation of your work, test results, and any process improvements you implemented.
• Interview Preparation: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, especially those related to technical challenges, problem-solving, and safety protocols in a medium voltage environment. Practice articulating your portfolio projects clearly and concisely.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Enphase Energy's products, mission, and recent news. Understand their commitment to renewable energy and innovation, and be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their goals.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.