Okay, I've searched for Power Systems Engineer roles in San Francisco that focus on power electronics, require 7+ years of experience in high-voltage design, specifically in energy storage products, and offer a salary of at least $150,000. I found 56 positions that match your criteria.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The role of Power Systems Engineer, New Products at Redwood Materials is fundamentally about developing and scaling innovative power electronics solutions to drive efficiency and sustainability in battery technology. As an early team member, this engineer will be responsible for designing power converters that meet high manufacturing standards while respecting constraints like cost and reliability. Key responsibilities include creating sophisticated models to inform the design process and engaging in hands-on aspects of powertrain layout. Success in this role will likely involve not only technical expertise but also adaptability in a fast-paced startup environment, where the ability to iterate based on feedback and solve complex problems quickly will be crucial. The focus on high-voltage and high-power systems necessitates a deep understanding of power conversion topologies, as well as familiarity with microprocessor selection and circuit board layout. Effectively balancing technological innovation with manufacturability will be a primary challenge, and collaboration will be essential to transition prototypes into production-ready solutions, ideally aiming to support Redwood's goal of increasing the scale of sustainable battery materials production.

Company Analysis:

Redwood Materials occupies a pivotal role in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector, particularly regarding sustainable battery recycling and production. As a relatively young company founded by a co-founder of Tesla, it demonstrates ambition and innovation, aiming to disrupt traditional supply chains with its circular economy approach. Employees will likely experience a work culture that prizes agility, dedication, and a forward-thinking mindset, given the startup environment and mission-driven focus that prioritize environmental sustainability. This role is critical as it will help shape the foundational aspects of power electronics within the company, suggesting direct visibility and influence often absent in larger, more hierarchical organizations. Success in this role means contributing directly to Redwood's objective of scale and efficiency, essential for meeting their production targets of sustainable battery materials. Understanding the company's trajectory towards substantial growth and the eco-conscious market trends will be instrumental for the candidate in aligning their efforts with Redwood's operational goals.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex power electronics design. What steps did you take to address the issue?
• Can you provide an example of a project where you had to balance cost, efficiency, and reliability in your design? What was the outcome?
• Describe a situation where you received critical feedback on a prototype. How did you incorporate that feedback into your work?
• What is your experience with high-voltage power converters, and how have you applied this to previous projects?
• How would you approach selecting the right semiconductor materials for a new power converter design?
• Explain your process for creating thermal models for power electronics and why it's important for the overall design.
• Imagine you are tasked with designing a new power converter for a product that is still in its conceptual stage. What steps would you take to initiate this project?
• If faced with multiple conflicting priorities from team members during a project, how would you prioritize and communicate your approach?
• Why are you interested in working at Redwood Materials specifically, and how do you see your skills contributing to our mission?
• How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in power electronics, and how have you applied new knowledge to your projects?
• What excites you most about the opportunity to work in the context of sustainable energy and battery technology?
• What are some key performance metrics you would set to measure success within the first year of this role?
• What questions do you have about the technologies we are developing at Redwood, and how do those relate to your expertise?