Senior Mechanical Engineer - Vacuum at Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Milpitas, CA

Job description

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 we're working with policymakers, suppliers, and many others to build the energy industry of the future. We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised $4 billion of capital, making us the largest and leading 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 Senior Mechanical Engineer We’re looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our R&D and equipment design team to help build the next generation equipment. You will be responsible for the end-to-end design, integration, and implementation of advanced thermal vacuum equipment and R&D machinery. This role requires you to be a technical expert who can drive innovative architecture while maintaining the procedural discipline necessary for high-performance hardware. If you enjoy solving complex thermal-mechanical problems in vacuum environments and mentoring others in a collaborative, fast-paced setting, this is your opportunity to make an impact. What you'll do: Lead System Design: Own the design, integration, and validation of R&D equipment Define Requirements: Establish system-level requirements and innovative design concepts that directly correlate mechanical precision to product quality Standardize Best Practices: Implement and maintain engineering workflows, and best practices using semiconductor standards as your guide Lead Design Reviews: Conduct rigorous reviews for overall mechanical systems and sub-systems, emphasizing manufacturability (DFx) and best practices for mechanical design Collaborate & Interface: Generate and maintain critical interfaces with cross-functional teams, including scientists, vacuum specialists, and electrical engineers Project Accountability: Report on project milestones to stakeholders, ensuring delivery of on-time and in-spec outcomes Get Things Done: Act with speed to drive projects from concept through assembly, testing, and implementation What we’re looking for: Education: Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (or equivalent industrial experience) Experience: 7+ years of experience in the design and implementation of complex R&D systems or semiconductor manufacturing equipment Thermal & Structural Expertise: Practical experience managing vacuum architecture (pumps, gauges, leak detection) and thermal management systems (chillers, heat exchangers) Vacuum System Proficiency: Deep understanding of vacuum architecture, including material outgassing, seal integrity, and pump-down optimization Software Mastery: Expertise in 3D modeling (SolidWorks and/or NX) and FEA/Thermal simulation tools (COMSOL, ANSYS) Hands-on Capability: Ability to bridge the gap between design and the shop floor, including experience with manual/CNC machining, prototyping, and hardware troubleshooting Vendor Management: Experience selecting and qualifying global vendors for specialized components or custom sub-systems Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead effectively in both direct and matrixed organizational structures Bonus points for: Semiconductor Background: Prior success building first-of-kind or experimental tools for semiconductor R&D or thin-film deposition Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with SEMI, ASME, ASTM, and other industry-standard mechanical codes Motion Control: Experience designing precision motion and motor-controlled systems within challenging environments Must-have requirements: Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended peri