We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-driven individual to join our fusion startup as the Head of Engineering. As the Head of Engineering, you will play a vital role in leading the prototype construction, setting goals for engineering processes, participating in the definition of device design, and providing expert opinions on the planned tokamak design, construction approach, and applicable technologies for our innovative fusion project. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of fusion research and lead a team of talented engineers in the development of advanced fusion technologies.

Responsibilities:

  1. Build from scratch and manage the engineering department of the tokamak-based fusion energy startup. The department to engage in every engineering aspect of the fusion system development from concept to completion and in further facility operations.
  2. Continuously collaborate with the R&D team, external experts, industry representatives and project stakeholders to jointly develop company's long-term vision and direction, define and optimise fusion devices. Provide expert opinions and insights on tokamak design and relevant technologies.
  3. Execute strategic planning of the engineering work, set engineering goals and objectives, align engineering efforts with the overall business strategy. Ensure that engineering objectives are met within the allocated time and resource.
  4. Leadership: Lead and manage teams and individuals involved in the development, construction, and operation of the fusion prototype, including mechanical design, magnetic, vacuum and blanket systems, power and control systems, plasma diagnostics and heating systems implementation, system integration. Provide guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise to ensure successful project execution.
  5. Organise and maintain a development workflow, including tokamak development and construction, design validation experiments, quality assurance practices and engineering part of the facility operation. Establishing engineering policies and standards in the organisation.
  6. Prototype Construction: Oversee the construction of the fusion prototype, coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure timely and efficient execution of engineering activities. Optimise and maintain the balance between the in-house manufacturing and outsourcing.
  7. Device Design: Collaborate with the research and development team to contribute to the design and optimisation of the fusion device. Provide expert opinions and insights on tokamak design, negative triangularity plasma, and other relevant technologies.
  8. Technology Evaluation: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in fusion research, control systems, and related technologies. Evaluate and recommend appropriate technologies to enhance the performance and efficiency of the fusion device.
  9. Collaboration: Foster strong collaboration and effective communication with cross-functional teams, including researchers, scientists, technicians, and external partners or vendors.
  10. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and challenges in the engineering process and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
  11. Documentation and Reporting: Ensure accurate and thorough documentation of engineering processes, designs, test results, and project status. Prepare regular reports for stakeholders and senior management.

Qualifications:

  1. A bachelor's or master's degree in nuclear engineering or degree in a related field with a nuclear engineering experience.
  2. Demonstrated R&D experience, preferably in fusion/plasma physics research or related fields.
  3. Proven track record leading engineering teams and managing complex engineering projects from concept to completion. Experience in commercial projects is preferable.
  4. Solid understanding of project management principles and vast actual experience of their implementation. Ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary teams.
  5. Strong knowledge and understanding of magnetic confinement device design principles, plasma physics, and fusion energy concepts. Experience with negative triangularity plasma would be advantageous.
  6. Background knowledge of magnetic systems design principles, vacuum technology, material science, FEA, mechanical engineering, control systems, power electronics, fabrication technologies and other related disciplines. Familiarity with reinforced learning-based control systems is highly desirable.