R&D Production Test Engineer

Join the power movement as a R&D Engineer
 
Most fusion-relevant superconducting magnets undergo high voltage transients that must be designed and tested against—using protection schemes that must take high and poor vacuum effects into account (e.g. the Paschen effect). This role is aimed towards research and development of high voltage systems for superconducting magnets with a focus on the Paschen effect including the execution and development of test campaigns as well as leading RCCA efforts through analysis and testing to resolve issues that may arise with the SPARC / ARC magnets currently in production, tokamak integration, and commissioning. Magnet technology is inherently multidisciplinary, and a successful R&D engineer will seamlessly flex between disciplines and groups to effectively execute tests and projects on aggressive schedules supporting CFS's mission. The R&D Engineer must have a fundamental understanding of mechanical, electrical, materials, fluids and software engineering, or some combination thereof—with a focus on high voltage systems in vacuum. The R&D Engineer will be responsible for the design, build, and commissioning of equipment and/or software in support of development, qualification and production tests related to high voltage systems inside vacuum. They must work collaboratively across manufacturing, R&D, procurement, and SPARC teams to achieve their test campaigns. It is also the role of the R&D Engineer to constantly push and challenge the requirements, risks, and test objectives that they are provided to help the combined stakeholders come to a consensus on why the planned test is required and what data is deemed essential for the outcome to be achieved.

What you'll do:

- Lead magnet and other test campaigns in cryogenic, vacuum, and high-current environments

- Develop detailed test procedures and ensure data integrity with robust instrumentation and controls

- Support improvements to test stands, optimizing for test rate and ensuring data quality

- Design, analyze, and build test equipment, including mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems

- Maintain and document test requirements, risks, and safety protocols

- Manage test schedules, budgets, and technical documentation (P&IDs, CAD designs, schematics, etc.)

- Improve test processes for repeatability and efficiency

- Analyze test data, create custom tools for data analysis, and present findings to cross-functional teams

- Lead anomaly investigations and resolution, collaborating with physicists and engineers

What we’re looking for:

- Bachelor’s (or higher) in engineering or applied physics, with 2+ years of hands-on testing experience

- Expertise in test stand operation, data collection, and cross-functional collaboration

- Strong background in test planning, data analysis, and test equipment design

- Experience with electromagnetic fundamentals and troubleshooting complex systems

- A passion for process improvement and innovative problem-solving

- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present technical topics clearly

- Self-motivated, results-driven, and eager to learn

Bonus points for:

- Experience with structural FEA software, particularly ANSYS and COMSOL

- Proficiency in using NX and Teamcenter for designing complex test equipment and assemblies

- Experience with Ignition for developing Human Machine Interfaces

- Proficiency in using Jira or similar ticket and task tracking software for managing projects and status

- Experience with large-scale data collection, manipulation, and analysis to derive actionable insights

- Hands-on experience operating complex test stands for long-duration test campaigns

Must-have requirements:

- Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs

- Perform activities such as typing, climbing, standing, stooping or sitting for extended periods of time

- Willingness to occasionally travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call

- Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics

#LI-Hybrid

At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.
 
We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.
 
This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.

Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations.
 
Benefits include:
•  Competitive compensation with equity
•  13 Company-wide Holidays
•  Flexible vacation days
•  10 sick days
•  Generous parental leave policy
•  Health, dental, and vision insurance
•  401(k) with employer matching
•  Professional growth opportunities
•  Team-building activities