Senior Scientist - Real-Time Plasma Control for Fusion

Physics World; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) match

Paid vacation

Parental leave

Equity participation

Job summary

TAE Technologies in Southern California seeks a Sr Scientist of Plasma Control at our Foothill Ranch, Orange County facility to lead the Real-time Plasma Control System (RTPCS) development for our current fusion device and to design next‑generation control architectures. The role combines plasma physics with advanced non-linear control, FPGA‑based embedded systems, and model‑based design.

You will collaborate with physicists, engineers, and computer scientists, publish findings, and help align

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or related field with fusion/research background.
• Experience in experimental plasma physics and magnetic confinement.
• Expertise in real-time control systems with FPGA and embedded platforms.
• Proficient in C/C++ and multitasking RTOS environments.
• Familiarity with Matlab/Simulink and Model-Based Design.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy, design, integration, and execution of RTPCS on C‑2W.
• Collaborate with experimental team to implement control algorithms.
• Maintain and advance RTPCS capabilities for current devices.
• Design next generation RTPS for future fusion devices.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists.
• Publish findings and present at conferences; engage with fusion community.

Skills

Real-time control

FPGA firmware

Embedded C/C++

Model-Based Design

Matlab/Simulink

Leadership

Multitasking

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Physics or related field

Tools

RTOS

FPGA hardware

Embedded systems

Job description

TAE Technologies in Southern California seeks a Sr Scientist of Plasma Control at our Foothill Ranch, Orange County facility to lead the Real-time Plasma Control System (RTPCS) development for our current fusion device and to design next‑generation control architectures. The role combines plasma physics with advanced non-linear control, FPGA‑based embedded systems, and model‑based design.

You will collaborate with physicists, engineers, and computer scientists, publish findings, and help align