R&D Test Engineer - Operations

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 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 over $2 billion in capital – more than any other fusion energy company in the U.S.

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 R&D Test Engineer

We’re seeking an experienced Test Engineer to lead the testing and de-risking of our cutting-edge HTS magnet technology, playing a key role in advancing fusion energy. Embedded within our R&D organization, you’ll take on a broad range of responsibilities, from developing methodologies with magnet physicists to conducting root cause analysis alongside manufacturing experts working with complex new materials. This dynamic role demands flexibility, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and the ability to execute tests on tight timelines. You’ll lead the integration and operation of complex test stands, refine procedures, and drive continuous improvement to help achieve our extraordinary milestones in making fusion a reality.

What you'll do:

• Lead magnet test campaigns in cryogenic, vacuum, and high-current environments
• Develop detailed test plans and ensure data integrity with robust instrumentation and control
• Drive improvements to test stands, optimizing for test rate and  ensuring data quality
• Design, analyze, and build test equipment, including mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems
• Maintain and document test requirements, risks, and safety protocols
• Manage test schedules, budgets, and technical documentation (P&IDs, CAD designs, schematics, etc.)
• Improve test processes for repeatability and efficiency
• Analyze test data, create custom tools for data analysis, and present findings to cross-functional teams
• Lead anomaly investigations and resolution, collaborating with physicists and engineers

What we’re looking for:

• Bachelor’s (or higher) in engineering or applied physics, with 5+ years of hands-on testing experience
• Expertise in test stand operation, data collection, and cross-functional collaboration
• Strong background in test planning, data analysis, and test equipment design
• Experience with electromagnetic fundamentals and troubleshooting complex systems
• A passion for process improvement and innovative problem-solving
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present technical topics clearly
• Self-motivated, results-driven, and eager to learn
• Willingness to travel and occasionally work nights/weekends/on-call

Bonus points:

• Experience with structural FEA software, particularly ANSYS and COMSOL
• Proficiency in using NX and Teamcenter for designing complex test equipment and assemblies
• Experience with large-scale data collection, manipulation, and analysis to derive actionable insights
• Hands-on experience operating complex test stands for long-duration test campaigns

Essential Requirements:

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as typing, stooping, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, 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.