Head of Plasma Physics & Fusion Science

Helion; Everett (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision

Paid time off

Holiday time

401(k) match

Disability & life insurance

Parental leave

Wellness stipend

Job summary

Helion in Everett, WA seeks a Director of Plasma Physics to lead a multidisciplinary team of experimental and computational scientists, engineers, and technicians advancing plasma performance. You will define a strategic scientific roadmap and ensure alignment with leadership goals, balancing technical risk and resource priorities.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Science, you will oversee plasma diagnostics, MHD, PIC simulations, and machine design, translating results into actionable

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in physics/engineering with 10+ years research and 5+ years managing scientists/engineers.
• Demonstrated experience building and leading multidisciplinary teams spanning experimental science, computational modeling, engineering, and technical operations.
• Experience using computational models and experimental data together to interpret plasma behavior and inform technical decisions.
• Experience leading complex, cross-functional applied physics programs involving experimental components.

Responsibilities

• Build, grow, and lead a multidisciplinary team focused on advancing plasma performance.
• Develop organizational operating rhythms and systems.
• Maintain a high talent bar via hiring, performance management, and developing managers.
• Define and execute an integrated scientific roadmap that connects modeling, experiments, and future fusion systems.
• Partner with Helion's leadership to establish goals, prioritize resources, balance risks, and own team commitments.
• Oversee experimental and computational programs spanning plasma diagnostics, MHD/PIC simulations, pre-ionization, machine design, data analysis, and model validation.
• Synthesize results into clear conclusions guiding research priorities, system design, and future device development.
• Drive plasma physics deliverables to completion in collaboration with Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, R&D, and Production teams.

Skills

Team leadership

Computational modeling

Plasma physics & experiments

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD in physics or engineering

Job description

Helion in Everett, WA seeks a Director of Plasma Physics to lead a multidisciplinary team of experimental and computational scientists, engineers, and technicians advancing plasma performance. You will define a strategic scientific roadmap and ensure alignment with leadership goals, balancing technical risk and resource priorities.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Science, you will oversee plasma diagnostics, MHD, PIC simulations, and machine design, translating results into actionable