How to apply for Senior Failure Analysis Engineer, Medium Voltage Transformers and Switchgear

About SMA America

SMA America is the U.S. subsidiary of SMA Solar Technology AG, a solar inverter manufacturer founded in 1981. The company holds more than 1,500 patents and operates in over 190 countries. It offers inverter solutions for every system size, from residential rooftops to large utility plants.

About the role

This role involves investigating field failures of medium voltage transformers and switchgear used in solar inverter systems. You will protect SMA's customers and brand quality by personally analyzing failures and determining root causes. The position is remote within the U.S. and full-time.

A typical day

A typical day might involve reviewing failure reports from field sites, coordinating with site technicians to collect data, and performing remote or on-site diagnostics. You would document findings, determine root causes, and work with engineering and quality teams to implement fixes. Some travel to field locations may be required.

Who SMA America is looking for

• Experience with medium voltage transformers and switchgear in solar, utility, or industrial power systems.
• Strong background in failure analysis, root cause investigation, and diagnostic testing of electrical equipment.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting and communicate findings clearly to engineering and quality teams.
• Familiarity with SMA inverters or similar power conversion equipment is a plus.

Tips for this application

• Highlight specific experience with medium voltage transformers and switchgear in your resume, including voltage classes and equipment types.
• Describe past failure analysis projects where you identified root causes and implemented corrective actions.
• Mention any experience with solar inverters or renewable energy systems, since SMA is a solar inverter manufacturer.
• Address your ability to work remotely and manage field investigations across different U.S. locations.
• Use the job title exactly as written in your application materials to show attention to detail.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your hands-on experience investigating failures in medium voltage transformers and switchgear.', 'How your work has directly protected customers and brand quality in previous roles.', "Your familiarity with solar inverter technology or willingness to learn SMA's product line.", 'Your approach to working autonomously in a remote role while collaborating with cross-functional teams.']

Research before applying

• Review SMA America's product line, especially their medium voltage offerings for utility-scale solar plants.
• Look up SMA Solar Technology AG's history, patents, and global presence to understand the company's scale.
• Research common failure modes in medium voltage transformers and switchgear used in solar applications.
• Check SMA America's Rocklin, California headquarters and any recent news about their U.S. operations.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Walk through a specific failure analysis you led on a medium voltage transformer or switchgear. What was the root cause and outcome?
• How do you prioritize multiple field failures when resources are limited?
• What diagnostic tests and tools do you use for medium voltage equipment failure analysis?
• How would you communicate a failure finding to a customer who is upset about downtime?
• Why do you want to work at SMA America specifically, and how does this role fit your career goals?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting a generic resume that does not mention medium voltage transformers or switchgear.
• Failing to explain how you would handle remote work and travel to field sites.
• Not researching SMA's products or the solar inverter industry before the interview.