Manager, Plasma Diagnostics

About the role

Helion is actively seeking a dedicated Manager of Plasma Diagnostics to spearhead critical experimental diagnostic initiatives essential for the advancement of fusion technology. In this capacity, you will own the leadership of a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, directing their efforts toward the creation and application of groundbreaking diagnostic technologies. Your strategic guidance will be vital in optimizing the performance of fusion plasmas and ensuring that experimental results are robust and actionable. This role represents a pivotal opportunity to directly influence the pace of innovation within a fast-growing research environment. You will be responsible for translating complex scientific objectives into tangible diagnostic roadmaps that the engineering team can execute. Your work will provide the precise measurements necessary to validate core fusion concepts and accelerate development. Ultimately, your leadership will contribute to realizing the company's vision of building the world's first operational fusion power plant. Through mentorship and technical oversight, you will ensure the team delivers high-impact results that advance the field.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Spearhead the development and execution of a comprehensive experimental diagnostic strategy for plasma systems.
• Direct a team of scientists and engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of rigorous analysis.
• Synthesize complex subsystem interactions into a unified diagnostic roadmap that aligns with project physics goals.
• Design and validate advanced optical and spectroscopic measurement instruments to capture critical plasma parameters.
• Establish rigorous data acquisition protocols to ensure the fidelity and reproducibility of experimental results.
• Champion the adoption of automated analysis workflows to reduce manual effort and accelerate insight generation.
• Represent Helion at major industry conferences, delivering compelling presentations on diagnostic progress and findings.
• Partner with engineering leads to integrate diagnostic hardware seamlessly into the test facility infrastructure.
• Implement metrics and reporting structures to track diagnostic coverage and the health of experimental campaigns.
• Secure external collaborations to leverage third-party expertise and expand the capabilities of the diagnostic team.
• Mentor junior staff through structured coaching, enhancing their technical skills and career development.
• Troubleshoot anomalies in diagnostic data, leading root cause analysis efforts to maintain experimental integrity.
• Allocate resources effectively to balance diagnostic coverage with project timelines and budget constraints.
• Liaise with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure diagnostic outputs support critical decision-making pathways.

Requirements

• A master's degree or higher in physics or a closely related field is required.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in scientific research, demonstrating a strong foundation in the field.
• At least 1 year of experience in a leadership role, managing scientists or engineers within research, development, or technology-focused environments.
• A solid understanding of applied plasma physics, complemented by hands-on experience in hardware design and development.
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects that span multiple departments, including effective schedule management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate challenges in a fast-paced research environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant laboratory environment at all times.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a dynamic setting.
• Willingness to adhere to company policies and procedural guidelines without exception.
• Professionalism and reliability are essential to meet the demands of high-stakes experimental timelines.

Nice to have

• Experience in the fusion energy sector or related fields is advantageous.
• Familiarity with advanced experimental diagnostic techniques and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of regulatory and safety standards within a laboratory or research setting.
• Previous involvement in grant writing or securing funding for research projects.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and tools relevant to plasma diagnostics.

Skills & tools

• Expertise in plasma physics principles and applications
• Proficient in hardware design and development methodologies
• Strong capabilities in experimental diagnostics and analysis
• Effective project management skills, with a focus on meeting deadlines
• Leadership skills to inspire and guide a diverse team

Practical notes

Helion provides an extensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of employees and their families. This includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans. Employees enjoy a generous total of 31 days of paid time off, which consists of 21 vacation days and 10 sick days, in addition to 10 paid holidays and a company-wide winter break. Helion also offers a 401(k) plan with up to a 5% employer match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave for up to 16 weeks. Additionally, an annual wellness stipend is provided to promote a healthy lifestyle among employees.

Join Helion and be part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of fusion energy technology. If you are about scientific innovation and have the leadership skills to drive a team toward success, we encourage you to apply for this .