Scientist - Applied Laser Physics

Physics World; Lake Forest (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

Sick time

December holiday

Wellness program

Parental leave

Job summary

TAE Technologies is seeking a highly skilled physicist to advance laser-based diagnostics in plasma environments. You will design and operate interferometric and Thomson scattering diagnostics, mentor junior scientists, and translate complex optical signals into fundamental plasma insights.

The role emphasizes collaboration across scientists and engineers, rigorous data interpretation, and participation in experimental planning.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering.
• Experience with optical diagnostics in plasma/accelerator environments.
• Strong mentoring and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to translate optical signals into actionable physics insights.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate on design, operation and interpretation of laser-based diagnostics.
• Mentor junior staff and drive cross-functional collaboration.
• Lead experimental planning and data calibration/documentation.
• Represent the team in external engagements and collaborations.

Skills

optical diagnostics

interferometry

Thomson scattering

mentoring

data interpretation

physics insights

Education

PhD in Physics/Applied Physics/Optical Engineering

Job description

Job Details

TAE Technologies is a leader in commercial fusion energy, founded in 1998 with a mission to deliver clean, sustainable energy to the world. Using our proprietary Field Reversed Configuration (FRC) technology, we are advancing toward the commercialization of aneutronic hydrogen-boron fusion. As we transition from the Norm to the Da Vinci commercial prototype, we seek dedicated professionals to support our critical experimental operations.

About The Job

• Collaborate with other Scientists on the design, operation, and data interpretation of laser-based diagnostics.
• Work with a team of physicists and engineers focused on precision optics and laser-plasma interaction.
• Design and develop an implementation of advanced measurement techniques and upgrades to existing systems.
• Drive interpretation efforts linking optical signals to fundamental plasma quantities.
• Maintain laser safety protocols and operational reliability across campaigns.
• Participate in experimental planning and contribute insights to broader physics interpretation efforts.
• Ensure data integrity, calibration procedures, and documentation are maintained to high standards.
• Collaborate with the experiment development and execution, data analysis, and results communication.
• Mentor junior staff and drive a culture of precision, rigor, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Conduct individual research and participate in or lead projects on a matrix basis as needed.
• Participate in outward facing activities like representing TAE and recruiting new talent.
• Demonstrate and promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.

About You

• Established years of experience with optical diagnostics or laser systems in a plasma, accelerator, or similar environment.
• Deep understanding of interferometry, Thomson scattering, or related laser techniques.
• Strong mentoring skills in a technical setting.
• Ability to translate complex optical signals into actionable physics insights.

Education

• Required: PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering
• Preferred: Specialization in laser diagnostics or plasma optics

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr.). The compensation range for these roles are $125,000 - $140,000.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

About Us

We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.

Imagination, skill, and will

We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.

What You'll Get With Us

• Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
• Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
• A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
• Potential for equity participation
• HQ in Southern California
• Employee events on and off-site
• A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more

tae.com

Our podcast Good Clean Energy

Instagram

LinkedIn

TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us [e-mail] to request accommodations or request more information.