Experimental Plasma Physicist

TAE Technologies, Inc; Lake Forest (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401(k) with company match

Paid vacation and sick time

Wellness program

Parental leave

Potential for equity participation

Job summary

TAE Technologies, Inc is looking for a Research Scientist in Experimental Plasma Physics in Lake Forest, California. This role involves developing diagnostic techniques, analyzing experimental data, and collaborating with engineering teams. The ideal candidate has a Ph.D. and 2-5 years of relevant experience. Compensation ranges from $100,000 to $130,000, along with benefits such as medical, dental, vision, and parental leave.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years post-PhD experience in experimental plasma physics with a focus on radiation and fast ion diagnostics.
• Proficiency with plasma diagnostic instrumentation and high-vacuum systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex datasets.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine diagnostic techniques for plasma parameters.
• Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
• Analyze complex experimental data with modeling and simulation tools.

Skills

Experimental plasma physics

Radiation diagnostics

Data analysis using Python

Optical systems

High-vacuum systems

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Technical report writing

Collaboration skills

Education

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

Tools

Plasma diagnostic instrumentation

Simulation tools

Document management platforms

Job description

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, from harnessing fusion through the science of stars to innovating medical care with novel cancer treatments.

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.

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. The compensation range for this role is $100,000–$130,000.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and sick time, companywide December holiday
• Wellness program, parental leave
• Potential for equity participation

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 [e-mail] to request accommodations or request more information.