Scientist - Applied Laser Physics

TAE Technologies, Inc; Lake Forest (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid vacation and sick time

Wellness program

Parental leave

Employee events

Job summary

TAE Technologies, Inc is looking for a Scientist of Applied Laser Physics in Lake Forest, California. The role involves managing laser diagnostic systems and interpreting data related to plasma parameters. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering and experience in optical diagnostics or laser systems.

We offer a competitive salary range of $115,000 – $155,000 and a collaborative work environment dedicated to innovation and safety.

Qualifications

• Years of experience with optical diagnostics or laser systems in a plasma or accelerator environment.
• Deep understanding of interferometry, Thomson scattering, or related laser techniques.
• Strong technical mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage laser-based diagnostic systems and interpret data for plasma parameters.
• Collaborate with scientists on design and operation of diagnostics.
• Drive interpretation linking optical signals to fundamental plasma quantities.
• Maintain laser safety protocols and data integrity.
• Mentor junior staff and promote cross-functional collaboration.

Skills

Optical diagnostics

Laser systems

Mentoring skills

Complex optical signal interpretation

Education

PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering

Specialization in laser diagnostics or plasma optics

Job description

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

The Scientist of Applied Laser Physics is responsible for managing laser‑based diagnostic systems and the interpretation of resulting data to extract key plasma parameters such as density, temperature, and magnetic field. This includes Thomson scattering, Faraday rotation, interferometry, polarimetry, and other coherent or incoherent laser techniques. Ensures the precision and reliability of laser diagnostics while contributing to the group’s contributions to experimental campaigns and advancing system capabilities.

• 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.

Compensation range: $115,000 – $155,000. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non‑Sr., Sr.).

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.

Benefits

• 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.

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 [e-mail] to request accommodations or more information.