Helion is building the world's first fusion power plant to deliver clean, reliable, and abundant electricity to the grid. Backed by Lightspeed, Peak XV and SoftBank VF.
About the role
Helion is hiring a Principal Experimental Scientist to lead the development of our RF pre-ionization capability for Helion’s fusion generators. In this role, you will own the strategy, technical direction, and execution of RF plasma source development for our FRC system, translating plasma physics goals into robust experimental hardware and operational capability.
What they're looking for
- Ph.D. in physics, plasma physics, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline with strong relevance to RF plasma systems, plasma sources, or fusion experimentation
- 10+ years of experience in advanced laboratory or R&D environments, including substantial hands-on work with plasma generation systems, RF hardware, vacuum systems, and experimental campaign execution
- Deep expertise in RF plasma source development, antenna/coupling design, RF-plasma interactions, or related high-energy plasma hardware
- Strong background in plasma diagnostics and data interpretation, with experience using measurement systems to evaluate plasma parameters such as density, temperature, stability, coupling, and current behavior
- Demonstrated track record of independently leading complex experimental programs from concept through validation, including cross-functional technical coordination and translation of results into system improvements
- Recognized subject matter expertise in one or more areas relevant to RF-assisted plasma startup, pre-ionization physics, experimental plasma systems, or fusion-enabling hardware
More about this role
We are a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, with the mission to build the world's first fusion power plant, enabling a future with unlimited clean electricity. Our vision is a world with clean, reliable, and affordable energy for everyone.
Since Helion's founding in 2013, we have raised $1.5 billion from long-time investors such as Sam Altman, Mithril, and Capricorn Investment Group as well as new investors including Thrive Capital, LightSpeed Venture Capital, SoftBank, and others to propel us forward. Our current prototype, Polaris, has reached record-breaking plasma temperatures of 150 million degrees Celsius (13 keV). Helion is continuing to iterate and on the path to the world's first fusion power plant, Orion.
This is a pivotal time to join Helion. You will tackle real-world challenges with a team that prizes urgency, rigor, ownership, and a commitment to delivering hard truths – values essential to achieving what no one has before. Together, we will change the future of energy, because the world can't wait.
Helion is hiring a Principal Experimental Scientist to lead the development of our RF pre-ionization capability for Helion’s fusion generators. In this role, you...
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