R&D Test Engineer

The role

You will operate and advance a pulsed-fusion device to generate electrical power. You will contribute to fusion experiments, system readiness, and machine performance improvement.

What you will do

• Operate and support the day-to-day execution of Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) fusion experiments
• Control and monitor pulsed power systems including mega-joule capacitor banks and high-energy infrastructure
• Own system readiness for experiments including pre-shot setup, system checks, troubleshooting, and analysis
• Identify, diagnose, and resolve issues in high-energy and large-scale vacuum systems
• Apply plasma physics concepts to support experiment execution and interpret diagnostics
• Drive continuous improvement of machine operations
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, science, and production teams

Required qualifications

• B.S. with 4+ years of relevant experience, or M.S. with 2+ years of relevant experience in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Extensive hands-on experience operating, maintaining, or improving high-vacuum chamber systems or high-voltage capacitor systems
• Experience owning system uptime, reliability, and performance, including troubleshooting and root cause analysis
• Proven experience executing complex experiments or operations with a focus on repeatability, safety, and continuous improvement
• Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn new technologies and take ownership of operational systems
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to respond effectively to real-time issues with minimal supervision
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team

Nice to have

• Experience mentoring or training others in system operation

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
• 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
• 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
• Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
• Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
• Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)
• Annual wellness stipend

About the company

Helion is a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, with the mission to build the world's first fusion power plant. The company has raised $1.5 billion from investors to propel its mission forward.