Program Element Lead - Fusion Systems

Xcimer; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Flexible Paid Time Off

Job summary

Xcimer is seeking a Program Element Lead for Fusion Systems in Denver, CO. This full-time role focuses on overseeing the execution of large-scale engineering programs that contribute significantly to global decarbonization.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience, leading technical teams through the lifecycle of complex engineering projects. Responsibilities include ensuring project compliance, managing budgets, and communicating with stakeholders.

Xcimer offers comprehensive benefits, including medical coverage, flexible paid time off, and a 401(k) match.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in nuclear and engineering-intensive environments.
• Experience leading large-scale technical teams effectively.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks for engineering projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and execution of engineering programs.
• Lead matrixed engineering and operations teams.
• Manage transition from design to delivery and integration.

Skills

Leadership in complex programs

Proficiency in nuclear engineering

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Education

BS in physics or related field

Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.)

Tools

Power extraction systems

Nuclear safety design frameworks

Job description

Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!

This is a full-time, onsite role based at our headquarters in Denver, CO.

As the Program Element Lead of Fusion Systems, you will apply your skills to define, plan, and deliver a hundred million to billion-dollar class engineering program from concept through completion, overseeing cross-functional teams to ensure technical excellence, budget adherence, and timely execution. We are looking for our engineers to apply their technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact the future of energy!

Responsibilities

• Oversee and be accountable for the design, planning, and execution strategy of a large-scale, hundred million to billion-dollar class program, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
• Provide day-to-day leadership to matrixed engineering, science, and operations teams, maintaining technical integrity and quality standards.
• Lead fusion system architecture, including the chamber, blanket, and supporting systems from conceptualization and requirement definition to delivery and plant integration.
• Direct procurement activities and vendor management for long-lead, critical-path fusion system components.
• Manage the transition from conceptual design to detailed design, fabrication, construction, assembly, and commissioning.
• Partner with safety, licensing, and regulatory teams to ensure compliance with applicable nuclear, environmental, and industrial safety frameworks.
• Manage project budgets, resource allocation, and schedules, implementing proactive risk mitigation and reporting on performance metrics.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and stakeholders, communicating program status, risks, and opportunities for continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Education: BS in physics, nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or related technical field.
• Experience: 10+ years leading large, complex programs (billion-dollar scale preferred) within a nuclear and engineering-intensive environment (nuclear energy, fusion facilities, particle accelerators, space and defense, etc.).
• Proven track record of guiding large-scale technical teams through all phases of technical program delivery.
• Experience maturing TRLs from concept through prototype.
• Familiarity with power extraction systems in the context of power plant engineering and design.
• Familiarity with safety basis development and nuclear safety design and construction frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated proficiency in one or more core engineering disciplines, such as Nuclear, Aerospace, Power or Mechanical.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant engineering field.
• Experience with design and construction of one-of-a-kind prototype systems in a nuclear environment.
• Familiarity with regulatory and compliance frameworks for high-value engineering projects and with NRC regulations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated workforce. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Benefits

Xcimer offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, well-being, and long-term success. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption; and a 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Eligible employees also receive equity, allowing them to share in the company’s long-term success.

Xcimer operates under a flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach. Rather than a fixed number of vacation days, employees are trusted to take the time they need to rest and recharge while meeting the expectations of their role and team. In addition, employees receive paid sick time, 13 company-paid holidays, and an annual paid company shutdown. Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit.