Senior Hardware Engineer - EV Charging

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Company Description

Allye Energy is revolutionising the energy storage sector with our cutting-edge Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) built using repurposed EV batteries. As part of our innovative approach to sustainable energy solutions, we are expanding our capabilities to integrate DC fast charging technology with our battery energy storage systems, creating a comprehensive energy ecosystem for the future of clean mobility and energy storage.

Job Description

We are seeking a Hardware Engineer with an electrical and electronics background to lead the development and integration of DC fast charging into our range of battery energy storage systems. This role is responsible for the system architecture development, software integration, and technical implementation that enables our BESS to both recharge from public DC fast chargers and integrate EV charging hardware into our energy storage solutions. It requires intelligent system integration and software architecture that bridges the gap between DC fast charging infrastructure and battery energy storage systems.

Responsibilities

System Architecture & Integration

• Design and develop core system architecture for integrating third-party DC fast chargers (from OEMs like Alpitronic, ABB, Kempower, etc.) with Allye's BESS
• Create interface specifications and communication protocols between EV charging hardware and our battery management systems
• Develop integration strategies to support multiple charging standards (CCS1, CCS2, NACS, CHAdeMO)
• Ensure integration supports bidirectional energy flow between BESS and charging infrastructure

Software Integration & OCPP Implementation

Lead software integration activities, working hands-on and with the existing embedded controls and application software teams, to deliver:

• Updates to our BESS control system and to implement OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol)
• Develop and maintain communication interfaces for charging session management, billing integration, and real-time monitoring
• Create robust API frameworks for seamless integration with charge point management systems (CPMS)
• Implement security protocols and encryption for safe data exchange between systems
• Work with WebSocket, MQTT, REST APIs, and other communication protocols

DC Fast Charging Network Integration

• Enable Allye's BESS to recharge from public DC fast charging networks
• Develop adapter strategies and interface solutions for different charging connector types
• Implement smart charging algorithms that optimise energy flow based on grid conditions, battery state, and charging rates
• Create interoperability solutions ensuring our systems work with existing and emerging charging standards

Hardware Interface Development

• Design electrical interfaces and control systems for integration with existing EV charging hardware
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers on physical integration challenges and thermal management
• Develop safety systems and emergency protocols for high-voltage DC charging integration
• Create test procedures and validation protocols for integrated charging systems

Standards Compliance & Certification

• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards: SAE J1772, IEC 61851, UL2202, ISO 15118
• Support certification processes for integrated systems (CE marking, UL listing, etc.)
• Stay current with evolving EV charging standards and emerging technologies like Plug & Charge and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)
• Maintain knowledge of grid codes and utility interconnection requirements

Collaboration & Documentation

• Work closely with software, mechanical, and systems engineering teams
• Create comprehensive technical documentation including system specifications, integration guides, and troubleshooting procedures
• Support field deployment and provide technical guidance for installation teams
• Collaborate with external partners, OEMs, and certification bodies

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 3-5 years of experience in EV charging infrastructure, power electronics, or automotive electrical systems
• Hands-on experience with DC fast charging systems (50kW-350kW+ power levels)
• Proven track record in system integration projects involving multiple hardware and software components

Technical Skills

• EV Charging Expertise: Deep understanding of DC fast charging standards, protocols, and hardware (CCS, NACS, CHAdeMO)
• OCPP Protocol: Hands-on experience implementing OCPP 1.6 and familiarity with OCPP 2.0.1
• Software Development: Proficiency in C/C++, Python, or similar languages; experience with embedded systems and real-time programming
• Communication Protocols: Experience with WebSocket, MQTT, CAN bus, Modbus, and TCP/IP networking
• Power Electronics: Understanding of high-voltage DC systems, power conversion, and energy management
• System Integration: Experience integrating hardware and software components in complex systems

Industry Knowledge

• Understanding of automotive industry development processes and quality standards
• Knowledge of battery management systems (BMS) and energy storage technologies
• Familiarity with grid integration requirements and utility interconnection standards
• Experience with safety standards for high-voltage systems and functional safety (ISO 26262 awareness preferred)

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working with automotive OEMs on charging integration projects
• Knowledge of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and bidirectional charging technologies
• Understanding of smart charging algorithms and demand response systems
• Experience with certification processes (CE, UL, FCC) for electrical products
• Knowledge of cybersecurity protocols for connected charging systems
• Familiarity with payment systems integration and PCI compliance
• Experience in startup or fast-paced development environments

Additional Information

Please note that at this time we are unable to provide UK visa sponsorship

Strictly No Agencies