Director of Plasma Control

Do Epic Science TAE is the worlds 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 its harnessing fusion through the science of stars making exponential leaps in power efficiency or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: Were turning the promise of science into reality.

Were 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

The primary task of the Plasma Control Team is to maintain and advance the development of the Real-time Plasma Control System (RTPCS) for TAEs current generation fusion device and to design next generation systems. The RTPCS integrates a large number of plasma diagnostics including magnetic probes neutral beam diagnostics and measurements of plasma density with plasma actuators including magnetic coils neutral beam injectors biasing electrodes and fueling valves into a holistic control system to achieve prescribed plasma performance and maintain stability. The RTPCS uses a combination of deterministic calculation and inference so a firm command of modern Bayesian and ML methods is required.

This leadership role bridges fusion energy science and plasma physics with cutting-edge control technology especially FPGA-based architectures of embedded systems. The successful candidate will therefore need a strong background in both areas. Additionally as advances in the RTPCS are expected to involve greater AI inference knowledge of advanced mathematical and computational AI/ML methods is a must.

• Lead the Plasma Control Team overseeing strategy design integration and execution of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
• Collaborate closely with the experimental team to define and implement control algorithms addressing plasma stability confinement and performance optimization
• Maintain and advance the capabilities of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
• Design and develop next generation RTPS for future TAE fusion devices
• Coordinate the work of a multidisciplinary team of physicists engineers and computer scientists fostering innovation in advanced control approaches
• Publish findings present at scientific conferences and engage with the broader fusion community to advance plasma control capabilities
• Provide strategic leadership in aligning plasma control development with organizational milestones toward commercial fusion energy
• Maintain awareness of technological developments relevant to the control of fusion plasmas
• Seek and foster relationships with external partners in the areas of control of fusion plasmas

About You

• Demonstrated experience in experimental plasma physics and magnetic confinement fusion research
• Proven expertise in real-time control systems including FPGA-based hardware and firmware development
• Experience in programming multitasking Real-Time Operating Systems and embedded control systems.
• Proficient in embedded C/C programming
• Knowledge of system design for embedded platforms established on Model-Based Design approaches (Matlab Simulink Stateflow)
• Excellent leadership team management and communication skills
• Demonstrated knowledge of good engineering practices and procedures
• Strong documenting and organizational skills
• Must have the ability to multitask and think in a fast-paced environment

Education

• Ph.D. in Physics or related field

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 $16000 - $200000.

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 youll 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

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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 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.

Required Experience:

Director