Lead Principal Plasma Diagnostics Scientist – On-Site

U.S. Fusion Energy

Energy (IL)

On-site

USD 230,000 - 270,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision plans

PTO 31 days

401(k) match up to 5%

Parental leave

Wellness stipend

Job summary

Helion, a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, seeks a Principal Experimental Plasma Scientist to lead the plasma diagnostic effort for its fusion generators. This onsite role reports to the Director of Plasma and Nuclear Science in Everett.

You will own design and deployment of diagnostics, integrate input from physics, engineering and data science, and ensure high data fidelity across campaigns. The position offers a rigorous environment with ownership, urgency, and opportunities to

Qualifications

PhD in physics/engineering with a focus on plasma science, diagnostics, or high-vacuum instrumentation.
10+ years in advanced lab environments with plasma systems and UHV infrastructure.
Proven use of diagnostic measurements (interferometry, spectroscopy, Langmuir probes, etc.) to drive system improvements.
Expertise in multiple areas of plasma diagnostics and fusion engineering; operates independently.

Responsibilities

Own end-to-end design and deployment of plasma diagnostics.
Integrate input from plasma physics, machine operations, controls, and data science.
Lead assembly, installation, calibration, and commissioning of diagnostics across campaigns.
Develop expertise in pre-ionization plasma diagnostics and best practices.
Analyze diagnostic data in real time to extract insights and inform tuning.
Partner with leadership on strategy, roadmaps, and long-term vision.