R&D Senior Research Engineer

Zap Energy is looking for a Senior Research Engineer who has experience relevant to the design, build, and operation of fusion-grade plasma devices. This engineer will have a hands-on role in the design and build of fusion plasma devices and their related systems, including mechanical structures, vacuum vessels and equipment, plasma-facing electrodes and insulators, high-performance gas puff valves and gas delivery systems, and scientific instruments. An ideal candidate would also contribute to the operation of such systems.

Responsibilities: 

• Participate in the engineering design of Zap’s next-generation plasma fusion devices 

• Design, modeling, and analysis of plasma fusion devices (electrodes, vacuum vessels, and associated hardware)

• Design and understanding of relevant pumping systems, cooling systems, fuel gas delivery systems, and pulsed power handling 

• Work with Scientists and Research Engineers to develop design requirements

• Build and commissioning of systems for fusion plasma devices 

• Drafting of professional engineering drawings using relevant standards

• Working with Procurement to source raw materials and finished parts 

• Operations and research of large fusion plasma devices

Qualifications: 

Required: 

• Education: B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related engineering discipline

• Years of experience: 7+ years.

• Demonstrated experience with the design and analysis of complex vacuum-mechanical assemblies

• Strong experience with computer-aided design (e.g., SolidWorks)

• Strong experience with material selection (metals, plastics, ceramics) for fusion-relevant applications

• Experience with design for Ultra-High Vacuum systems

• Knowledge of traditional and advanced fabrication processes

• Strong experience with creating professional engineering drawings to industry standards, utilizing GD&T 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic engineering research environment

 Preferred: 

• Education: M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related engineering discipline

• Experience with design for plasma systems

• Experience with FEA analysis of mechanical, thermal, and electromagnetic effects (e.g. COMSOL, ANSYS, Solidworks)

• Experience with Solidworks PDM

• Familiarity with compressed gas delivery systems and hardware

• Proficiency with shop tools including lathes, CNC mills, drill presses, and hand tools

Benefits of joining Zap Energy - While doing meaningful work is rewarding in itself, we also offer the following programs and benefits for all employees:

• Competitive salary and benefits

• Premium medical / dental / vision insurance

• Flexible vacation and paid company holidays

The estimated salary range for this position is $120k - $170k. Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act. 

Zap Energy is building a low-cost, compact, and scalable fusion energy platform that confines and compresses plasma without the need for expensive and complex magnetic coils. Zap’s sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology provides compelling fusion economics and requires orders of magnitude less capital than conventional approaches. Zap Energy has approximately 150 team members in multiple facilities near Seattle and is backed by leading financial and strategic investors. 

Zap Energy Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

Questions on this position can be sent to [email protected].