Electronics Engineer

About Us:

Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) is at the forefront of developing, manufacturing, and revolutionizing Radioisotopic Power Sources (RPS). Situated in Oak Ridge, TN, our radiological lab is dedicated to harnessing the high energy density of isotopes for compact power and electronic devices. Our goal is to redefine power solutions by leveraging continuous and steady energy emission from isotopes, enhancing the longevity and usability of devices such as sensors and small satellites. Direct Kinetic Solutions envisions being the power solution for future generations.

Position Overview:

We're seeking a seasoned Electronics Engineer with 5–10 years of hands-on experience, particularly focused on microelectronics, PCB design, and power management. This role will be instrumental in designing and optimizing cutting-edge betavoltaic systems that deliver unmatched energy density, reliability, and miniaturization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and testing of electronic circuits, with emphasis on microelectronics, PCB layout, and power management systems.
  
• Develop and optimize schematics, layouts, and prototypes for advanced electronic systems.
  
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (firmware, mechanical, systems engineering) to ensure seamless integration.
  
• Conduct circuit analysis, signal integrity studies, thermal management, and reliability testing.
  
• Select and qualify components, materials, and manufacturing processes to meet performance and cost targets.
  
• Troubleshoot, validate, and refine designs to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5–10 years of experience in electronics hardware development, especially in microelectronics, PCB design, and embedded power management systems.
• Lead design of microelectronic systems for radioisotopic power hardware (betavoltaic devices using SiC semiconductors).
• Experience with simulation tools (e.g., SPICE, MATLAB, ANSYS, or equivalent).
  
• Architect PCB layouts for compact, high-efficiency power management systems → added thermal management, signal integrity, EMI control.
  
• Implemented MPPT (maximum power point tracking) and voltage regulation for betavoltaic sources.
  
• Engineered power integrity analyses, thermal design (copper thickness, thermal vias).
  
• Proven expertise in PCB design tools (e.g., Altium Designer, OrCAD, KiCad, or equivalent).
  
• Strong knowledge of analog/digital circuits, microcontrollers, and embedded hardware.
  
• Hands-on experience in power electronics / power management design (DC-DC converters, battery management systems, low-power design strategies).
  
• Familiarity with signal integrity, EMI/EMC considerations, and thermal management in PCB design.
  
• Solid understanding of industry standards (IPC, IEC, UL, ISO, etc.).
  
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with ability to work independently and in collaborative environments.
• Deep understanding of PCB layout for power, including thermal strategy, high-current trace sizing, component placement, and avoiding hot spots
  
• Experience implementing EMI protection, shielding, and signal-ground plane design.
• Experience with Battery Management Systems (BMS), including cell balancing, charge/discharge control, and protection circuitry.
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s in Electrical/Electronics Engineering (specializing in microelectronics or power management systems).

• Knowledge of low-noise design, RF circuits, or mixed-signal electronics.
  
• Experience with betavoltaic or radioisotopic power management systems, or similarly niche and high-reliability hardware.
  
• Knowledge of SiC device handling, radiation-hardened electronics, and embedded power regulation (MPPT, battery charging).
  
• Background in multilayer PCB architecture, advanced stack-ups, DFM practices, and manufacturing readiness.

Who you are:

• You’re motivated by a challenge - we are a small team with a big mission, we are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic, fast paced environment and doesn’t back down from a challenge.
• You strive for excellence and see setbacks as opportunities - we are constantly improving as we bring our first of a kind product to market, we believe that no solution is too out there and we are always open to looking at things from a different perspective.
• A teamplayer - you will have a key role in supporting our team of technical experts, you will coordinate efforts between manufacturing and engineering, ensuring everyone on the team has the materials, tools, and support to succeed. 

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive health insurance
• 401K plan with company matching
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment