Senior Mechanical Engineer - Test Infrastructure

The role

You will lead mechanical design, structural analysis, and physical implementation of core components for a nuclear fusion demonstration system. You will translate physics requirements into hardware through 3D CAD modeling and system integration.

What you will do

• Lead end-to-end mechanical design, 3D CAD modeling, and detail engineering of complex components and assemblies.
• Perform hand calculations, first-principles mechanical design, and advanced finite element analysis.
• Translate physics requirements, spatial constraints, and boundary conditions into engineering models and hardware specifications.
• Conduct detailed tolerance stack-up analyses and impact assessments on part variances.
• Apply Design for Manufacturability and Design for Assembly best practices.
• Interface with cross-functional teams to resolve design trade-offs and mitigate technical risk.
• Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, including dimensioned detail drawings and design review packages.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical design and structural/thermal analysis for complex hardware systems
• Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks)
• Extensive practical experience applying Finite Element Analysis software (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, or Creo Simulate)
• Deep understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5), tolerance stack-up analysis, and material selection for demanding environments
• Strong knowledge of advanced manufacturing techniques (machining, additive manufacturing, precision welding) and DFM/DFA principles
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with a solid foundation in engineering fundamentals
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice to have

• Master’s or PhD

Benefits

• Industry-Competitive Salary
• Equity Plan
• 6% Employer 401k Matching
• Generous Paid Time Off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Before you apply

• This position may require access to information or technology subject to U.S. export control laws.
• Access is provided only to individuals classified as U.S. Persons (U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, or asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending).

About the company

Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy. The company is designing and building a pulser-driven inertial fusion system.