Senior Mechanical Engineer, Vacuum Systems for Fusion Tech

Pacific Fusion; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 138,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity plan

6% employer 401k matching

Generous paid time off

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Job summary

Pacific Fusion in Fremont, CA is seeking a Senior Vacuum Systems Engineer to design assembly and integration for testing key components of our pulser system. You will lead cross-functional engineering activities from concept through on-site commissioning, specify vacuum components, prototype rapidly, and ensure compatibility with cryogenic and clean-room environments.

You will drive design reviews, collaborate with scientists and engineers, and support high-voltage testing in vacuum chambers for

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or related field; Master’s or PhD is a plus.
• Alternatively a minimum of 10 years specialized experience as a senior technician—with demonstrated responsibilities in system design, independent testing, and complex troubleshooting.
• Proven expertise in high vacuum systems design, analysis, and construction.
• Hands-on experience with vacuum components: chambers, pumps, seals, valves, ducts and clean room techniques.
• Experience integrating electrical testing in vacuum systems and pressurised systems.
• Familiarity with ASME BPVC and B31.3 codes.
• Experience with radioactive or toxic gas vacuum systems, novel vacuum pumps, or material characterization.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and test advanced vacuum systems for target area chambers and diagnostics.
• Select and size vacuum components, including pumps, seals, ducts, and valves, ensuring performance in particle-free cryogenic environments.
• Rapid prototyping for fusion technology applications.
• Lead technical and engineering activities from concept development through final onsite commissioning of vacuum equipment and systems.
• Supporting high-voltage electrical switching operations and testing in a vacuum chamber
• Perform experiments to characterize materials for outgassing, permeability, and vacuum compatibility.
• Provide solutions to field issues related to vacuum system design and performance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to educate and negotiate design requirements within a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

High vacuum systems design

Vacuum components & clean room tech

Electrical testing in vacuum systems

ASME BPVC & B31.3 familiarity

Cryogenic environments

Troubleshooting & diagnostics

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (Master’s/PhD a plus) or 10+ years senior technician experience

Job description

Pacific Fusion in Fremont, CA is seeking a Senior Vacuum Systems Engineer to design assembly and integration for testing key components of our pulser system. You will lead cross-functional engineering activities from concept through on-site commissioning, specify vacuum components, prototype rapidly, and ensure compatibility with cryogenic and clean-room environments.

You will drive design reviews, collaborate with scientists and engineers, and support high-voltage testing in vacuum chambers for