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Thea Energy is a fusion energy company leveraging stellarator physics breakthroughs to commercialize fusion power. The company has developed a novel approach using computer-controlled planar coil arrays to replace complex modular magnets, aiming to deliver zero-emission energy at scale.
You will lead a large, complex custom product development program focused on manufacturing development of core magnet technology. This is a highly visible role that acts as a force multiplier, increasing development velocity and raising execution standards across the organization. You will oversee the scaling of magnet production from concept through pilot and commercial-scale ramps.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead cross-functional manufacturing and operations programs from concept through pilot production, including process and equipment design, installation, qualification, and ramp
- Oversee selection, qualification, and management of external custom manufacturing vendors, ensuring adherence to specifications, quality standards, and delivery schedules
- Guide the transition from prototype to large-scale manufacturing, including integration of large equipment and continuous process manufacturing techniques
- Provide regular, detailed program updates to leadership and stakeholders, highlighting progress, technical challenges, and proposed solutions
- Establish and track key manufacturing readiness metrics (equipment readiness, process capability, throughput, yield)
- Proactively identify and manage technical, schedule, budget, and quality risks; develop effective mitigation strategies and contingency plans
You will work deeply with technical teams spanning physics, mechanical engineering, magnet engineering, and manufacturing engineering to solve first-of-a-kind problems in a fast-moving startup environment.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
- 5+ years leading complex, multidisciplinary engineering programs, ideally involving large-scale hardware development in climate tech, aerospace, nuclear, or related industries
- Demonstrated experience working in a manufacturing ramp setting and delivering concept and pilot-scale manufacturing development milestones
- Demonstrated ability to work deeply with technical teams and solve first-of-a-kind problems
- Strong understanding of design and manufacturing processes and the realities of design, build, test cycles
- Excellent communication skills and ability to influence across engineering, operations, and leadership teams
- Proven ability to distill complex technical programs into clear risks, decisions, and priorities for leadership audiences
- Comfortable operating in a fast-moving startup environment with high ownership and ambiguity
Nice to have:
- Manufacturing roadmap development experience
