# Principal Experimental Scientist - RF at Helion

- Company: Helion
- What the company does: 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.
- Company website: https://helionenergy.com/
- Type: Startups
- Level: Principal and up
- Location: Everett, WA
- Work setup: On-site
- Pay: $230K to $270K base salary per year (USD)
- Posted: 2026-05-06
- Apply by: 2026-10-08
- Apply: https://jobs.ashbyhq.com/helion/546d8e0e-e57a-4866-bec8-6c3a0a2c7ef4
- Page: https://www.1752.vc/careers/jobs/helion-principal-experimental-scientist-rf/

## 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

Tags: Science