Xcimer Energy Corporation
Pulsed Power Physicist
TLDR
Work on the science and engineering of electron-beam cathode systems for inertial fusion energy, focusing on beam efficiency and energy deposition, with significant independent scientific authority.
Responsibilities
Optimize beam efficiency and energy deposition on target
Lead design, fabrication, and testing of cathode systems across multiple emitter technologies (explosive emission, thermionic, photocathodes)
Design and optimize hibachi foil/anode grid structures for beam transport efficiency
Lead experimental campaigns end-to-end
Develop and validate cathode and beam transport models (analytical, PIC, SPICE) to guide design decisions; roughly equal balance of modeling and experimental work
Operate and maintain UHV vacuum systems (target < 10^-9 Torr) including bakeout, leak checking, and pumping systems
Survey prior art on emitter technologies, beam transport, and cathode physics
Own experimental program documentation: test reports, design records, operating procedures, and data management
Manage hardware procurement, BOM tracking, and vendor relationships for cathode subsystems
Interface with potential commercial emitter suppliers on procurement, packaging, and quality
Support integration of cathode systems into larger diode and laser architectures
Qualifications
Education: PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or closely related field (MS with exceptional relevant experience considered)
Deep expertise in beam diagnostics (Faraday cups, beam imaging, energy analysis, calorimetry)
Hands-on experience with vacuum electronics and electron-beam generation
Able to independently design experiments, interpret results, and write up findings clearly
Experience building and commissioning complex experimental systems end-to-end (mechanical, electrical, vacuum, controls)
Familiarity with high-voltage pulsed power systems (100 kV+)
Proficiency with lab instrumentation (SMUs, oscilloscopes, HV power supplies)
Comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and physics domains in a small team
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.
Desired
Direct experience with explosive emission, or cold cathode technologies
Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes
Experience with PIC or beam optics simulation codes (e.g., Chicago, CST, COMSOL)
Background in beam transport optimization
Track record of thorough technical documentation and hardware program management (procurement, scheduling, vendor coordination)
Background in excimer laser or inertial fusion energy systems
Equal Employment Opportunity
Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information on “EEO Is the Law,” please see here and here.
Benefits
Xcimer offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, well-being, and long-term success. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption; and a 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Eligible employees also receive equity, allowing them to share in the company’s long-term success.
Xcimer operates under a flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach. Rather than a fixed number of vacation days, employees are trusted to take the time they need to rest and recharge while meeting the expectations of their role and team. In addition, employees receive paid sick time, 13 company-paid holidays, and an annual paid company shutdown. Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit.
Xcimer Energy Corporation develops advanced Inertial Fusion Energy technology powered by innovative laser systems. Our focus is on building fusion power plants that accelerate the transition to clean energy, enabling a sustainable future for the planet.