Experimental Plasma Physicist

Physics World; Lake Forest (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401(K) with company match

Paid vacation + sick time

Job summary

TAE Technologies in Southern California seeks a Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) to develop and oversee diagnostic systems for the C-2W device, including Doppler spectroscopy, X-ray detectors, and fast ion diagnostics.

You will plan experiments, analyze complex data with modeling tools, collaborate with engineering on detectors and vacuum hardware, and prepare reports for internal reviews and conferences. PhD required with 2–5 years post-PhD experience.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or closely related field.
• 2–5 years post-PhD experience in experimental plasma physics with radiation/fast ion diagnostics.
• Proficiency with plasma diagnostic instrumentation and high-vacuum systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine diagnostic techniques to characterize fast ion distributions and radiation profiles.
• Collaborate with engineering to design and maintain detector systems and optical setups.
• Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
• Analyze experimental data with modeling tools and interpret results for the program.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for reviews and conferences.
• Contribute to design/testing of new diagnostic systems with scientists and engineers.
• Maintain laboratory infrastructure and follow safety protocols.

Skills

Plasma diagnostics

Python data analysis

Optical systems

High-vacuum systems

Experiment planning

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Plasma Physics or related field

Tools

Doppler spectroscopy

X-ray detectors

Vacuum hardware

Job description

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality.

Job Details

Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality.

We're looking for candidates who are passionate about realizing our mission: A future where all people have affordable access to reliable, abundant, and environmentally friendly fusion-generated electricity.

The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced diagnostic systems focused on radiation and fast ion physics for the C-2W fusion device. This role involves designing and operating advanced spectroscopic systems (including Doppler spectroscopy, charge-exchange recombination spectroscopy, filtered PMT arrays, visible Bremsstrahlung, and fast imaging), X-ray detectors, and fast ion / fusion product diagnostics (proton and neutron detectors, fast ion loss detectors, and neutral particle analyzers).

About The Role

• The successful candidate will join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division under the guidance of the Lead Scientist.
• Develop and refine diagnostic techniques to characterize key plasma parameters such as fast ion distributions, electron dynamics, thermal ion and neutral properties, radiation profiles, and energetic particle modes.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to design, implement, and maintain detector systems, optical setups, vacuum hardware, and associated instrumentation.
• Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
• Analyze complex experimental data with advanced modeling and simulation tools, interpreting results within the broader fusion research program.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal meetings, project reviews, and scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the design and testing of new or upgraded diagnostic systems in collaboration with scientists and engineers.
• Maintain laboratory infrastructure while strictly following all safety protocols.
• Promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.

About You

• 2-5 years post-PhD experience in experimental plasma physics, with a strong focus on radiation and fast ion diagnostics or closely related fusion diagnostics.
• Demonstrated success in planning and conducting experiments, analyzing results, and delivering technical reports or peer‑reviewed publications.
• Proficiency with plasma diagnostic instrumentation, optical systems, and high‑vacuum systems.
• Hands‑on experience building, deploying, troubleshooting, and maintaining diagnostics on plasma research devices.
• Familiarity with fusion diagnostics and associated radiation safety protocols.
• Experience with data analysis using Python (preferred) or similar tools.
• Working knowledge of simulation tools for modeling plasma behavior.
• Experience with project collaboration and document management platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in team environments to meet project objectives and deadlines.

Education

• Required: Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job‑related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non‑Sr., Sr., Lead or Manager). The compensation range for these roles are $125,000-$140,000.

About Us

Imagination, skill, and will

We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.

What You'll Get With Us

• Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
• Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
• A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
• Potential for equity participation
• HQ in Southern California
• Employee events on and off‑site
• A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more

tae.com

Our podcast Good Clean Energy

Instagram

LinkedIn

TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us [e-mail] to request accommodations or request more information.

Note to Agencies

TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.