Commonwealth Fusion Systems
Staff Systems Engineer
TLDR
Employ as the primary Systems Engineer for next-gen thin-film deposition equipment, integrating complex machinery across mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems.
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 and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future.
We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private 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 Staff Systems Engineer
We’re looking for a Systems Engineer to join our R&D team to serve as the primary Systems Engineer for the next generation of thin-film deposition equipment. You will be responsible for the seamless integration and operation of complex machinery, ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems work in harmony.
This role requires a unique blend of technical "tool-sense" and program management. You will be the technical authority for critical utility subsystems, the primary troubleshooter during commissioning, and the lead communicator across functional engineering groups (mechanical, electrical, and controls).
What you'll do:
Ownership: Act as the primary technical owner for critical subsystems, including vacuum pumps, chillers, and gas delivery modules owning Process and Instrumentation Diagrams, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, and general equipment layouts
Troubleshooting & Operation: Lead the hands-on operation of the equipment; identify, diagnose, and resolve complex electromechanical and software issues during R&D cycles
Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead technical discussions and bridge gaps between Mechanical (ME), Electrical (EE), and Software (SW) teams to ensure system-level cohesion
Technical Specifications and Requirements: Author and maintain comprehensive equipment specifications and system requirements for new and existing R&D platforms
Program Management: Create and manage detailed project schedules and budgets to ensure equipment upgrades and installations stay on track
Standardize Best Practices: Implement and maintain engineering workflows and operational SOPs, using semiconductor standards as your guide
Project Accountability: Report on program progress, and budget variances to key stakeholders
What we’re looking for:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Systems, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent industrial experience)
12+ years of experience in the operation, integration, or design of complex R&D systems or semiconductor manufacturing equipment
Proven ability to manage the interfaces between hardware and software, specifically in motor-controlled and sensor-heavy environments
Practical experience managing vacuum architecture (pumps, gauges, leak detection) and thermal management systems (chillers, heat exchangers)
High proficiency in tool troubleshooting; comfortable using diagnostic equipment and navigating software control interfaces
Demonstrated experience in project accounting and the use of scheduling software to manage complex equipment builds
Exceptional ability to lead meetings and translate complex technical requirements across different engineering disciplines
Experience leading in a matrixed environment, driving consensus among diverse functional groups
Bonus points for:
Semiconductor Background: Experience with the operation of PVD, CVD, or thermal evaporation systems in a manufacturing or high-end R&D environment
R2R Expertise: Experience with the system-level integration of roll-to-roll (R2R) material processing tools
Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with SEMI, ASME, and safety standards for vacuum and high-voltage equipment
Control Systems: Understanding of PLC or custom software control logic for industrial automation
Must-have requirements:
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally
Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended periods of time
Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics
#LI-Onsite
At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.
We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.
This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is driving the transition to fusion energy by designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. With a blend of decades of research and innovative technologies, we are positioned to lead in the development of a sustainable energy future.
- Founded
- Founded 2018
- Employees
- 51-200 employees
- Industry
- Renewable Electricity
- Total raised
- $200M raised
Staff Systems Engineer