Enter a job title or keyword

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Inertia


Job Location:

Livermore, CA - USA

Yearly Salary: $ 180000 - 240000
Posted: 11 July 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 8 October 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Overview:

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer within the laser division to play a key role in developing the next generation of ultra-high energy pulsed laser systems for fusion energy. Typical design projects would include the design and development of solid-state laser hardware and systems large-aperture opto-mechanical mounts and positioning systems support structures vacuum chambers and systems thermal management systems and test stands and diagnostics.

What you get to do:
  • Gather and develop requirements for systems with stakeholders across all disciplines

  • Conceptualize system architectures and concepts based on high-level requirements

  • Lead small teams in the design of precision mechanical and opto-mechanical equipment and systems for IFE facilities

  • Design mechanical opto-mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment and systems

  • Validate design work with appropriate analysis (static and modal FEA hand calculations etc.)

  • Present at design reviews to science and management stakeholders

  • Work closely with other disciplines in the design and coordination of activities

  • Integrate precision opto-mechanical fluidic and electrical hardware designed both in-house and by subcontractors into large-scale CAD assemblies that include facility BIM data

  • Perform detailed component materials and finish specifications manage technical data transfer to suppliers inspect and qualify hardware following procurement

  • Assemble prototype hardware; develop and execute test plans for subsystem performance validation

  • Utilize large-scale CAD assemblies to provide assembly documentation and installation schedules for opto-mechanical and electrical systems

  • Guide and mentor other engineers

What you bring:
  • 10 years of experience as a mechanical design engineer

  • Proven history of delivering novel and innovative solutions to challenging problems

  • Proficiency with 3D CAD packages; SolidWorks (preferred) CREO Autodesk Inventor etc.

  • Thorough knowledge of drafting tolerance analysis and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)

  • Demonstrated experience with FEA - Structural Modal Random Vibration with empirical validation

  • Experience with CFD analysis with empirical validation (preferred)

  • Practical knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining sheet metal welding) and design for manufacturability (DFM)

  • Experience specifying components for precision design: linear stages rotary motors encoders optical sensors pneumatic components vacuum components etc.

  • Full design lifecycle experience including design procurement assembly and test of mechanical systems

  • Experience with cleanroom procedures high-voltage and high-vacuum environments

  • Experience designing laser systems or optical instruments

  • Experience with Product Data Management Systems; SolidWorks PDM (preferred)

  • Applicants should be able to work both autonomously as well as collaboratively to execute tasks in support of various teams within the company

  • Due to the nature of this position applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Salary & Benefits:
  • The base salary range for this role is $180000 - $240000 per year; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills experience and education.

  • We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program including Medical Dental and Vision plans company-paid holidays matching 401k and more!

About Inertia:

Inertia is taking the most direct scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energys (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation transformative technology and multi-year investment Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.


Required Experience:

Senior IC


About Company

Company Logo

Inertia accelerates clean fusion energy with proven science, expert leadership, and a clear plan to deliver safe, affordable, limitless power.

View Profile View Profile