Electronics Hardware Engineer – R&D Sustaining Engineering

At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to:

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Run what runs the world. At ABB's Critical Power division in Napier, we're seeking a highly motivated Electronics Hardware Engineer to join our R&D Sustaining Engineering team and play a key role in ensuring the reliability, quality, and long-term sustainability of our world-class power protection solutions.

Work model – onsite #LI-onsite in Napier

Core Responsibilities:

• Lead sustaining engineering activities ensuring the reliability and performance of electronic components across our critical power product portfolio, including UPS systems and power protection equipment, while working independently with limited supervision
• Drive component management and supplier partnerships including technical assessment, qualification, obsolescence management, and working cross-functionally with Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality to mitigate risks and improve supply chain resilience
• Support product quality and reliability initiatives by conducting root cause analysis, failure investigations, and translating lessons learned from manufacturing and field experience into continuous product improvements
• Ensure compliance and lifecycle management by maintaining adherence to applicable industry standards (UL, IEC, RoHS, REACH) and participating in engineering change management and product lifecycle activities
• Drive innovation and intellectual property development by identifying customer needs, proposing product enhancements, submitting invention disclosures, and recognizing IP risks within R&D projects
• Maintain technical excellence by staying abreast of emerging technologies and state-of-the-art developments in electronics and power systems, applying this knowledge to create innovative solutions
• Document and communicate effectively through well-structured technical reports and knowledge sharing with colleagues to ensure quality results and continuous improvement across the team

Our team dynamics

You will join a talented, high-performing, and dynamic team of engineers in Napier who are dedicated to advancing critical power solutions for data centers and mission-critical applications globally. The team is collaborative, innovative, and committed to engineering excellence. You'll work alongside experienced R&D professionals who mentor and support continuous technical development while maintaining a culture of operational excellence and customer focus.

Qualifications for the role:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field with 3+ years of experience in electronics engineering or sustaining engineering
• Strong experience in component engineering, product engineering, component lifecycle management, and obsolescence monitoring
• Deep understanding of electronic, electrical, and electromechanical components, industrial power electronics, power quality systems, and UPS technology
• Ability to interpret component datasheets, technical specifications, test reports, and engineering drawings
• Proven experience working with suppliers and cross-functional engineering teams in a global environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis methodologies such as 8D, RCA, FMEA, or Six Sigma tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and supplier quality management
• Experience with SAP, Windchill PLM, and/or ERP systems (preferred)

More about us

ABB's Critical Power division is a global leader in electrification technology, delivering innovative, reliable, and efficient power solutions for the world's most demanding applications. The division provides mission-critical uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), power protection systems, and advanced electrical infrastructure solutions that safeguard data centers, hospitals, industrial facilities, and critical infrastructure worldwide. 

Our Napier team has earned recognition as a center of excellence within ABB's global critical power operations. The team recently achieved a landmark milestone with the development and successful commercialization of HiPerGuard, the first true static medium-voltage (MV) UPS solution engineered specifically for next-generation AI-driven data centers and high-density industrial applications. This groundbreaking technology has attracted global market attention, with a $140 million order received in 2025, positioning ABB as a market leader in MV UPS solutions for hyperscale infrastructure.

The team's commitment to customer-centric design, relentless focus on process improvement, and agile methodology has enabled the division to capture a solid market share in the rapidly growing AI data center sector.  Our solutions enhance energy efficiency, reliability, and protection for mission-critical applications worldwide while supporting customers in achieving their sustainability and decarbonization goals. We embrace diversity, value individuals from all backgrounds, and welcome those passionate about building a more sustainable and resilient future through innovative power technology.

Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.

Ready to make an impact?

Apply today or visit https://www.abb.com to learn more about the impact of our solutions across the globe.