Do Epic Science

TAE is the world’s first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality.

We’re looking for candidates who are passionate about realizing our mission: A future where all people have affordable access to reliable, abundant, and environmentally friendly fusion-generated electricity.

About The Role

We have an opening at our Foothill Ranch, CA (Orange County) facility for a Plasma Dynamics and Control Scientist. The selected candidate will develop control-oriented models for FRC plasma dynamics, design control algorithms, observers, and sensing techniques using physics-based methods and machine learning. The role includes collaborating on experimental campaigns, designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and supporting operations with the real-time plasma control system.

This is a hybrid role with three days on-site.

• Identify requirements and analyze data from the experimental fusion machine to be used in modeling.
• Develop and improve plasma dynamics models using physics models, system identification, and machine learning techniques.
• Develop automated methods for model validation and identify their limitations and uncertainties.
• Create observers for plasma control using advanced mathematical techniques (Kalman filters, Bayesian inference, machine learning).
• Develop plasma discharge guidance and control algorithms to improve plasma performance using physics insight, simulations, and experimental tests.
• Contribute to implementing observers and control algorithms in the plasma control platform (FPGA-based systems) using MATLAB/Simulink, C, Python, or other high-level programming tools.
• Participate in experimental campaigns by designing, conducting, and analyzing guidance and plasma control experiments.
• Support plasma control operations during experimental campaigns.
• Present research progress internally and externally when required.
• Document experimental proposals, research progress, and results using TAE collaboration tools.
• Contribute to TAE’s patent portfolio by writing patent disclosures.
• Publish research findings in scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
• Foster knowledge sharing within the team and assist in training and interviewing new team members.
• Ensure projects are brought to completion on time and report progress promptly.

About You

• 2+ years of experience designing, implementing, and testing complex control systems in large-scale industrial, aerospace, automotive, or scientific systems.
• Demonstrated experience with system dynamics modeling, Bayesian inference, and uncertainty quantification.
• Expertise in model-based control system design and embedded system implementation.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink for modeling system dynamics and designing control systems.
• Familiarity with machine learning platforms and scientific programming languages (C, Python, Julia, etc.).
• Understanding of plasma diagnostics, magnetic sensors, plasma dynamics, and actuator systems (preferred).
• Familiarity with collaborative tools (Confluence/JIRA) and Linux-based systems.
• Experience with FPGA development (Verilog/VHDL) and programming with C/C++.
• Strong debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing experience.
• Familiarity with memory controllers, DMA, schematics, component data sheets, and GIT for version control.

Education

• Required: Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline.

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr., Lead or Manager). The compensation range for these roles are $80,000-$150,000.

#LI-Onsite

About Us

Imagination, skill, and will

We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.

What you’ll get with us

• Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
• Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
• A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
• Potential for equity participation
• HQ in Southern California
• Employee events on and off-site
• A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more
tae.com
Our podcast Good Clean Energy
Instagram
LinkedIn

TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us recruiting@tae.com to request accommodations or request more information.

Note to Agencies: TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.