Principal Mechanical Engineer
Milpitas, CASuperconductor – Superconductor R&D / Full-time / On-site About Commonwealth Fusion Systems : Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world.Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team. If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you. Join the power movement as a Principal Mechanical Engineer We’re looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our R&D and equipment design team to help build the next generation of thin-film deposition technology. The Principal Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for the design and implementation of advanced R&D equipment and complex machinery. This role requires strong technical expertise, procedural discipline, and the ability to collaborate across engineering and technology functions to ensure safe, reliable, and high-performance equipment. If you enjoy working on complex design problems, mentoring others, and solving problems in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, this is your opportunity to make an impact.
What you'll do :
- Lead the design and implementation of advanced R&D equipment for thin film processing, including ownership of key mechanical modules and sub-systems
- Define system level requirements and drive innovative design concepts to meet these requirements
- Lead design reviews for overall mechanical system and key mechanical subsystems
- Generate and maintain interfaces with other engineering subsystems
- Report on and be accountable for project progress to stakeholders
- Work effectively within a multi-disciplinary team of top scientists and engineers
- Mentor engineering staff for effectiveness and delivery of on-time & in-spec outcomes
- Get things done : drive projects, consistently deliver, act with speed
What we’re looking for :
Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industrial experience)15+ years of experience with at least 7 years of experience working as a principal mechanical design engineer or engineering team lead in a relevant context : design and implementation of R&D systems and manufacturing equipmentAbility to conceive of novel solutions for complex engineering systems in challenging environmentsExpertise with 3D modeling; preferred experience with SolidWorks and NXExperience with COMSOL, ANSYS or other FEA toolsAbility to select and qualify vendors for components or subsystemsDemonstrated ability to lead in either direct or matrix structuresStrong verbal and written communication skills and a dedication to high-quality documentationBonus points for :
in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industrial experience)Prior success building first-of-kind or experimental tools for material science or semiconductor R&DFamiliarity in applying Semi-S8, ASME, ACI, ASTM, and other mechanical standards to design solutionsExperience with the operation of equipment in a manufacturing environmentMust-have Requirements :
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbsPerform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of timeDedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, and cryogenicsWillingness to travel or work required nights / weekends / on-call occasionally$150,000 - $225,000 a yearSalary range for this full-time position + equity + benefitsThe 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 equityCompany-wide HolidaysFlexible vacation days10 sick daysGenerous parental leave policyHealth, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with employer matchingProfessional growth opportunitiesTeam-building activities#LI-OnsiteAt 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 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.