About Pacific Fusion

Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy.

We are rapidly designing and building a pulser-driven inertial fusion system to achieve net facility gain (more fusion energy output than stored energy input). In parallel, we are developing the key components required to build affordable fusion systems.

Our plans are ambitious. We have raised over $900M so far from incredible investors, resourcing us to deliver on these plans. We are bringing together the best scientists, engineers, and operators from the fusion community, hard tech industry, and other sectors. We are united by a shared sense of urgency to provide clean power for the world, particularly managing climate change while meeting growing global energy demand. You can read more about us in this letter from our founders.

About the Role

Job Overview:

Pacific Fusion is seeking a Senior Mechanical Technician to join our Positioners Team and create the path to commercial fusion energy. Based in San Leandro, CA, this role will support the assembly, testing, and development of our vacuum systems and other clean assemblies, including large vacuum manipulators used to position diagnostic instruments, as well as vacuum-insulated cryogenic targets for physics experiments. These systems are essential for understanding the physical processes that will produce fusion energy.

Responsibilities:

• Assemble and test mechanical components and systems, including vacuum systems and clean assemblies, under the guidance of engineers

• Perform leak checking using helium mass spectrometry and other vacuum diagnostic tools

• Work in class 100 and 1000 clean room environments while following protocols

• Participate in troubleshooting and resolving mechanical issues with new and existing systems

• Assist in the performance testing of vacuum and mechanical systems

• Perform routine maintenance on vacuum systems (rough pumps, turbomolecular pumps, cryo pumps. etc.)

• Maintain the equipment and tools being used in the area

• Order tools and keep inventory of tools and equipment

• Manage parts inventory, acquire necessary components for prototypes and production, and ensure availability of supplies for uninterrupted workflow

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, adhering to industry regulations and company policies

• Support the implementation of Engineering Change Orders by reworking assemblies or updating documentation as needed

• Collaborate with designers and engineers in the development of prototypes and finished systems

• Contribute to the creation of detailed technical documentation, including assembly instructions, maintenance manuals, and test reports

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of mechanical technician work experience involving vacuum systems and clean assembly

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a related field

• Basic understanding of mechanical and vacuum system design

• Strong understanding of vacuum system assembly and operation

• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and tools for the assembly and testing of vacuum systems

• Familiarity with mechanical fabrication and assembly drawings

• Strong problem-solving skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

• Experience using machine shop tools for part modifications, drill press, milling machine, lathe, presses, saws welders, etc.

• Experience with PTC Creo CAD software is a plus

• Experience with pneumatics, hydraulics, motion systems, or electronic integration is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

This position requires the physical ability to squat, reach, climb, prolonged periods of standing, frequent lifting of objects up to 50 lbs, and regular hands-on work with tools and equipment in the laboratory

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

Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.

Pacific Fusion is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Pacific Fusion is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures and throughout employment. If you need assistance or any accommodation, please let us know.