Staff Systems Engineer at Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Milpitas, CA

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 we're 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 nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world.

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 Staff Systems Engineer

We’re looking for a Systems Engineer to join our R&D team to serve as the primary Systems Engineer. You will be responsible for the seamless integration and operation of complex machinery, ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems work in harmony. This role requires a unique blend of technical "tool-sense" and program management. You will be the technical authority for critical utility subsystems, the primary troubleshooter during commissioning, and the lead communicator across functional engineering groups (mechanical, electrical, and controls).

What you'll do:

• Ownership: Act as the primary technical owner for critical subsystems, including vacuum pumps, chillers, and gas delivery modules owning Process and Instrumentation Diagrams, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, and general equipment layouts
• Troubleshooting & Operation: Lead the hands-on operation of the equipment; identify, diagnose, and resolve complex electromechanical and software issues during R&D cycles
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead technical discussions and bridge gaps between Mechanical (ME), Electrical (EE), and Software (SW) teams to ensure system-level cohesion
• Technical Specifications and Requirements: Author and maintain comprehensive equipment specifications and system requirements for new and existing R&D platforms
• Program Management: Create and manage detailed project schedules and budgets to ensure equipment upgrades and installations stay on track
• Standardize Best Practices: Implement and maintain engineering workflows and operational SOPs, using semiconductor standards as your guide
• Project Accountability: Report on program progress, and budget variances to key stakeholders

What we’re looking for:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Systems, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent industrial experience)
• 12+ years of experience in the operation, integration, or design of complex R&D systems or semiconductor manufacturing equipment
• Proven ability to manage the interfaces between hardware and software, specifically in motor-controlled and sensor-heavy environments
• Practical experience managing vacuum architecture (pumps, gauges, leak detection) and thermal management systems (chillers, heat exchangers)
• High proficiency in tool troubleshooting; comfortable using diagnostic equipment and navigating software control interfaces
• Demonstrated experience in project accounting and the use of scheduling software to manage complex equipment builds
• Exceptional ability to lead meetings and translate complex technical requirements across different engineering disciplines
• Experience leading in a matrixed environment, driving consensus among diverse functional groups

Bonus points for:

• Semiconductor Background: manufacturing or high-end R&D environment.
• Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with SEMI, ASME, and safety standards for vacuum and high-voltage equipment.
• Control Systems: Understanding of PLC or custom software control logic for industrial automation.

Must-have requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally
• Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended periods of time
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics

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.

This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.