Possibilities within the sector
PEMD technologies, including power electronics, is high growth and high value, making a significant contribution to key areas such as transportation, aviation, manufacturing and energy which has a huge impact on the economy, as well as providing high-quality, highly-skilled secure employment and education that is sought after. This area of electech design and manufacturing will be key to ensuring the UK, and rest of the world, can smoothly transition to Net Zero as quickly as possible to mitigate climate change.
There are various different roles within PEMD electech sectors that are suitable to all working ages and abilities. With such a crucial industry, and huge challenges faced such as the replacement of all petrol and diesel cars in the UK by 2035-2040, careers in PEMD and Electech will continue to grow and be in high demand globally in the coming decades.
To get a foothold in the PEMD electech industry, there are a number of routes and ways to enter the sector at varying levels. From apprenticeships and skills bootcamps to formal education such colleges and university courses, there are options that are suitable for all. Now is the time to consider a new role in this globally important industry.
Industry Supporters
E-Power is supported by a number of industry partners across Lancashire, the north west and the United Kingdom. Working alongside these organisations, Tech Lancaster is currently helping identify skills shortages and understand training needs, and is developing a further round of Skills Bootcamps due to start in autumn 2022. These will provide an opportunity at all levels to undertake intensive learning, with guaranteed interviews by employers on completion of the bootcamp. More information will be available at our face-to-face and virtual events in April and further events over the coming months.
Activities involved in PEMD electech design and manufacture includes:
Manufacturing Operatives:
• Working as part of teams manufacturing and assembling PEMD technologies
• Undertaking final assembly of complex systems including PCBs, motors, wiring harnesses and batteries
Technicians:
• Testing and analysing
• Maintenance of existing systems
• Setting up and running lab experiments
Technical Planners and Quality:
• Creating drawings
• Creating and maintaining product documentation
• Ensuring quality of manufacture and control of defective product/proceses
Technical Sales / Procurement:
• Engaging new customers
• Purchasing components for PEMD assembly
• Customer support
Design Engineer:
• Designing and developing various power electronics circuits, PCBs and systems
• Creating design documentation, test methods and validation plans
• Building prototypes, products and systems
• Identifying and organising requirements for power electronics applications
Some of the requirements for roles the sector usually include:
• PEMD Electech design and manufacture relies on multi-disciplinary teams with a variety of experience and skills.
• For entry level roles – a logical, technical aptitude with good attention to detail and a “can do” approach, with on-the-job training given.
• For intermediate roles – prior experience working in a technical role in technology, engineering or similar industry.
• For advanced roles – a degree or equivalent in electronic engineering or comparable discipline.
• Also non-technical roles are also available in sales, procurement, manufacturing operations, administration support and many other roles.