Molten Salt Lab Lead for Fusion Power Systems

U.S. Fusion Energy; Illinois; On-site; USD 170,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Job summary

Xcimer Energy, a leader in inertial fusion energy research, seeks a PhD‑level Laboratory Lead to establish and run the Molten Salt Laboratory in Denver, CO. You will design, build, and operate salt test facilities, driving experimental programs that inform fusion power plant development.

The role requires deep molten salt expertise, hands‑on lab leadership, and the ability to scale capabilities from first pots to integrated test loops. Equal commitment to safety and innovation is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant engineering field.
• 12+ years of experience in experimental high-temperature fluids or related R&D.
• Deep experience with molten salts or liquid metals and high-temperature systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, design, build, commissioning and operation of the Molten Salt Laboratory.
• Define and own the development roadmap for molten salt capabilities from small pots to large test loops.
• Develop timelines for prototypical thermal-hydraulic test environments and associated tests.
• Collaborate with science and engineering teams to translate results into design requirements.
• Establish laboratory best practices, documentation standards, and quality expectations.
• Manage relationships with external labs, vendors, and collaborators.

Skills

Molten salt

High temperature fluids

Laboratory leadership

Experimental design

Project management

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Xcimer Energy, a leader in inertial fusion energy research, seeks a PhD‑level Laboratory Lead to establish and run the Molten Salt Laboratory in Denver, CO. You will design, build, and operate salt test facilities, driving experimental programs that inform fusion power plant development.

The role requires deep molten salt expertise, hands‑on lab leadership, and the ability to scale capabilities from first pots to integrated test loops. Equal commitment to safety and innovation is essential.