Mechanical Engineer

The planet urgently needs safe, reliable, zero-carbon energy without waste. Nuclear fusion can address the scale of this problem, but for decades, existing fusion approaches have not proven a net positive energy gain. Zap Energy has rethought the fundamental technology of fusion. As the only company using sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch, we present potentially the fastest path to commercially available fusion energy.

Zap Energy is currently looking for a Mechanical Engineer. This individual will have a key, hands‑on role in the development of our fusion z‑pinch devices. The ideal candidate is an organized, inventive problem solver, capable of working through technical challenges and employing sound, pragmatic solutions through team efforts.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

• Engineer, document, procure, assemble and deploy from sub-assemblies to full shear-flow stabilized z‑pinch fusion devices
• Engineer, document, procure, assemble and deploy of diagnostics to evaluate the performance of z‑pinch devices
• Maintain and reconfigure devices based on needs from the R&D team.
• Ensure a safe work environment

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline
• Solid fundamentals of solid mechanics
• Working knowledge of materials (metals, ceramic, polymer)
• Proficiency with parametric CAD software (Solid Works preferred)
• Knowledge of Finite Element Analysis for structural, thermal and/or electromagnetic applications (Ansys and/or COMSOL preferred)
• Working knowledge of standard prototype manufacturing technologies
• Demonstrated ability to complete assigned projects, working with a multidisciplinary technical staff
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• MS / ME in mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline
• High reliability design for aerospace and/or nuclear applications
• Engineering research lab environments
• Design of components and assemblies for ultra-high vacuum systems applications
• Experience with plasma-based devices
• Design of laser-based instruments
• High voltage systems

Estimated salary range: $100,000-$150,000 annually

While doing meaningful work is rewarding in itself, Zap Energy also offers the following:

• Competitive compensation
• Matching retirement contributions
• Flexible vacation and paid company holidays

Zap Energy is building a low-cost, compact and scalable fusion energy platform that confines and compresses plasma without the need for expensive and complex magnetic coils. Zap’s sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology offers the shortest potential path to commercially viable fusion and requires orders of magnitude less capital than traditional approaches. Zap Energy has over 60 employees in two facilities near Seattle and is backed by leading financial and strategic investors.

Zap Energy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

Please contact  with any questions.