Experimental Plasma Physicist, Fusion Diagnostics

Physics World; Irvine (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 and sick time

Wellness program

Parental leave

Job summary

TAE Technologies is seeking a Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) to join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division. You will develop and oversee advanced diagnostic systems for the C-2W fusion device.

The role focuses on spectroscopic systems, X-ray detectors, and fast ion/fusion product diagnostics, with collaboration across engineering and science teams. Required Ph.D.

Qualifications

• PhD required in plasma physics, engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience 2–5 years post-PhD in experimental plasma physics with focus on radiation/fast ion diagnostics.
• Hands-on experience building, deploying, troubleshooting, and maintaining diagnostics on plasma devices.
• Experience with Python for data analysis and simulation tools for modeling plasma behavior.
• Strong written and verbal communication for reports and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine diagnostic techniques to characterize fast ion distributions and radiation.
• Collaborate with engineering to design, implement, and maintain detector systems.
• Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
• Analyze experimental data with modeling tools and interpret results.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal meetings and conferences.
• Contribute to new diagnostics design and testing with scientists and engineers.
• Maintain laboratory infrastructure and follow safety protocols.
• Promote safety culture and corporate values.

Skills

Plasma diagnostics

Python analysis

Vacuum systems

Diagnostics deployment

Experimental physics

Technical reporting

Team collaboration

Data interpretation

Education

Ph.D. in Plasma Physics

Tools

X-ray detectors

Doppler spectroscopy

Charge-exchange spectroscopy

Neutron detectors

Job description

TAE Technologies is seeking a Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) to join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division. You will develop and oversee advanced diagnostic systems for the C-2W fusion device.

The role focuses on spectroscopic systems, X-ray detectors, and fast ion/fusion product diagnostics, with collaboration across engineering and science teams. Required Ph.D.