R&D Engineer, Pellet Injectors

About the role

You will architect and realize the mechanical and systems engineering backbone of fusion pellet injection technology from initial concept to experimental validation. You will own the cross-functional translation of physics requirements into robust, manufacturable hardware and integrated systems. You will leverage active risk management to navigate technical uncertainty and ensure feasible, on-schedule solutions. You will design in CAD, coordinate with suppliers, and iterate based on physical reality captured in prototyping. You will model key processes to guide design decisions and verify performance through targeted testing. You will contribute directly to the critical fueling infrastructure that enables commercial fusion power plants to manage plasma density. You will collaborate with research institutions and partners to push the boundaries of pellet injector performance within a demanding startup context. You will thrive on shaping a core technology pillar that defines whether fusion energy can scale globally.

Key facts

What you'll do

1 Engineer machines that accelerate 10K hydrogen isotope pellets into the plasma core with precision and reliability.

2 Apply active risk management to guide engineering decisions and explore mitigation options to ensure feasibility under strict timelines.

3 Design complex mechanical components and assemblies in CAD, ensuring production feasibility and manufacturability.

4 Manufacture prototypes using practical methods to learn from physical reality and de-risk critical technical assumptions.

5 Develop and execute modeling of injector dynamics to explore the design space and predict system behavior.

6 Validate models against experimental data, refining assumptions to improve accuracy and predictive power.

7 Test components, subsystems, and integrated prototypes to confirm performance against demanding specifications.

8 Define and develop diagnostics, instrumentation, and test procedures to capture high-quality experimental data.

9 Collaborate with established research institutions and technology partners to leverage external expertise and facilities.

10 Conduct rigorous testing campaigns, owning the full data acquisition chain and analysis to extract actionable insights.

11 Support technology evaluation through first-principles modeling and simulation, with Python used to drive trade studies and decisions.

12 Adapt swiftly to shifts in scope and priorities inherent to a fast-paced startup environment.

13 Leverage unique advanced skills, such as high-power lasers or high-energy ballistics, to solve specialized problems and expand role impact.

14 Ensure that design choices align with safety, reliability, and regulatory expectations for future commercial power plant integration.

15 Drive documentation and knowledge capture to enable seamless handover and continuous improvement across the team.

Requirements

You hold a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical field.

You possess a strong "Maker" mindset, comfortable soldering sensors to cables and adapting data evaluation tools on the fly.

You bring technical breadth with experience in at least two of the following areas: Mechanical Design, Cryogenics, Vacuum, Testing, and Diagnostics.

You are skilled in technology evaluation, using early-stage first-principles modeling and simulation for technology trade studies.

You are proficient in Python, which is a strong advantage for modeling, automation, and analysis tasks.

You thrive in ambiguous, fast-moving startup settings where responsibilities can shift quickly and initiative is essential.

You demonstrate rigor in defining test methods, selecting diagnostics, and analyzing results to draw defensible conclusions.

You communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners across locations.

Nice to have

Experience with high-temperature superconducting magnets or fusion-relevant cryogenic systems is highly relevant.

Prior work on high-power laser systems or high-energy ballistic experiments is valuable for specialized problem solving.

Familiarity with vacuum technology, cryogenic pumping, and ultra-high vacuum environments is advantageous.

Hands-on experience with data acquisition systems and real-time diagnostics enhances your contribution to testing.

Background in fusion energy systems or participation in related research projects strengthens alignment with the mission.

Practical notes

This role is based in Munich and requires full-time on-site availability.

Candidates must be authorized to work in Germany and hold a valid visa or permit if required.

Interviews will be conducted through a structured process including recruiter, technical screening, panel, and CEO stages.

The position is classified at L2/L3 within our framework; further details on compensation, hours, and progression can be discussed during the recruitment process.