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Xcimer Energy is developing inertial fusion energy (IFE) technology to deploy fusion power plants for global decarbonization. The company combines decades of fusion research with groundbreaking laser architecture and is backed by leading investors.
As a Vacuum Systems Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the design, integration, and operation of vacuum systems for rare-gas/halide (excimer) lasers used in IFE power generation. Your work spans from prototype systems through design and demonstration of power-producing IFE reactors. You will ensure vacuum hardware meets flow and performance requirements throughout the product development lifecycle in a dynamic R&D environment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop and specify pump-down and vent procedures to meet vacuum system flow requirements
- Perform analyses and calculations to predict and optimize flow architecture functionality, including pressure drop, flow budgeting, humidification, and gas purity
- Design equipment using NX CAD
- Work with vendors for custom and off-the-shelf devices and instruments
- Select instruments for gas analysis such as RGAs and FTIR
- Collaborate with controls team on device integration
- Ensure functional integration of vacuum architectures and subsystems through analysis, documentation, and machine testing
- Manage pressure and vacuum vessel certifications, proof-tests, and compliance with code standards
- Lead design efforts for prototype systems and subsystems, including Preliminary and Final Designs
- Troubleshoot escalations and derive practical recommendations for improvements
- Collaborate with mechanical, laser, pulsed power, and optical engineering teams
- Support procurement of vacuum-related hardware for laser amplifiers and optical conditioning equipment
- Oversee and assist with assembly, shakedown, and testing of vacuum systems
- Provide operational support for vacuum systems and equipment
- Contribute to scaling designs for power-producing IFE reactors and participate in concept studies
Requirements:
- B.S. in Mechanical, Nuclear, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 3+ years in mechanical engineering with focus on vacuum system design for complex hardware (preferred industries: semiconductor, solar, R&D, nuclear, fusion energy, lasers, defense)
- Proficiency with 3D CAD software (NX preferred)
- Working knowledge of high purity gas delivery components and standard equipment
- Working knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- Experience with complex integrated system design (e.g., plasma source, gas delivery, pulsed power, lasers, opto-mechanical systems)
- Strong problem-solving skills and hands-on approach to troubleshooting and testing
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum
- Interdisciplinary engineering experience is a plus
- Start-up experience preferred
