Mechanical Engineer - Pulsed Power

Pacific Fusion

$115K — $150K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of demonstrated experience designing complex systems.
  • Experience designing, developing, testing and building prototype mechanical/electrical systems.
  • Proven ability to deliver complex R&D projects on schedule.
  • Strong background in electronic design, control systems, and PLC software development.
  • Proficiency in circuit simulations and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools.
  • Familiarity with engineering modeling and CAD software.

Responsibilities

  • Design, build, and operate pulsed power systems, including high-voltage architectures.
  • Operate pulsed power systems during testing and data collection campaigns.
  • Ensure safe operation of high-energy systems according to safety protocols.
  • Acquire, process, and analyze data from pulsed power experiments.
  • Develop tools and workflows for data collection and visualization.
  • Translate experimental data into actionable insights for design improvement.
  • Lead design reviews and technical documentation efforts.

Benefits

  • Equity plan
  • 6% employer 401k matching
  • Generous paid time off
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Full Job Description
Why This Role Matters

We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to design, build, operate, and advance our pulsed power systems - the core of our experimental fusion platform. This role is deeply hands-on and multidisciplinary, requiring expertise across high-voltage systems, controls, diagnostics, and data analysis. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with the ability to lead R&D workflows, collaborate across disciplines, and take ownership of system performance and development.
  • Design, build, and operate pulsed power systems, including high-voltage and high-current architectures, control systems for pulsed power operation, safety, and automation.
  • Operate pulsed power systems during testing and data acquisition campaigns, including occasional work outside regular business hours.
  • Ensure safe, reliable operation of high-energy systems in accordance with company safety protocols.
  • Acquire, process, and analyze data from pulsed power experiments to evaluate system performance and stability.
  • Develop tools and workflows for data collection, visualization, and interpretation.
  • Translate experimental results into actionable insights for next-generation pulser design.
  • Take ownership of pulsed power subsystem advancement and roadmap execution.
  • Lead design reviews, experimental planning, and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and plasma physics teams to iterate and improve designs.
  • Drive continuous improvement in reliability, efficiency, and diagnostic capability.
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of demonstrated experience designing complex systems.
  • Experience designing, developing, testing and building prototype mechanical/electrical systems.
  • Proven ability to deliver complex R&D projects on schedule, from concept to prototype to validation.
  • Strong background in electronic design, control systems, and PLC software development.
  • Proficiency in circuit simulations (e.g., SPICE, PSCAD, COMSOL, or similar) and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools.
  • Familiarity with engineering modeling and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS, or COMSOL Multiphysics).
Bonus Points For
  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
  • Prior experience with high-voltage pulsed systems for fusion, plasma research, or accelerator applications.
  • Hands-on experience integrating diagnostics and controls for high-energy experiments.
  • Knowledge of safety standards and best practices in high-voltage or high-energy environments.


Pay Range:

$115,000-$150,000 USD

Total Compensation & Benefits for Eligible Employees
  • Industry-competitive salary
  • Equity plan
  • 6% employer 401k matching
  • Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.

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