Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

San Leandro, CA

About Pacific Fusion

Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy. We are rapidly designing and building a pulser-driven inertial fusion system to achieve net facility gain (more fusion energy output than stored energy input). In parallel, we are developing the key components required to build affordable fusion systems. Our plans are ambitious. We have raised over $900M so far from incredible investors, resourcing us to deliver on these plans. We are bringing together the best scientists, engineers, and operators from the fusion community, hard tech industry, and other sectors. We are united by a shared sense of urgency to provide clean power for the world, particularly managing climate change while meeting growing global energy demand.

Why This Role Matters

Pacific Fusion is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to support the development of advanced mechanical systems for next-generation fusion energy technology. This role is ideal for creative, hands-on mechanical designers with strong CAD expertise who can work independently while collaborating closely with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional technical teams. Successful candidates will develop and analyze complex mechanical systems, conduct research to resolve challenging engineering problems, and translate concepts into fully detailed, production-ready designs. Depending on experience and qualifications, candidates may also provide technical leadership, including planning and leading multiple complex projects.

What You'll Do

• Independently analyze complex design problems and develop robust mechanical design solutions that satisfy all requirements and constraints.
• Translate design solutions into detailed layouts and assemblies using Creo Parametric.
• Develop supporting documentation for design solutions, including analysis, schedules, cost estimates, and procedures.
• Capture design intent using Creo Parametric, including model-based definition practices where applicable.
• Maintain accurate design documentation and configuration control within Windchill or equivalent PLM/ELM systems.
• Estimate schedules and costs to determine effective approaches for design, materials selection, and fabrication to meet project deliverables.
• Prepare and present technical material for design reviews, procedures, and related documentation.
• Provide technical mentorship to fellow designers and contribute to workforce planning, task prioritization, and work assignments.
• Participate in formal design reviews and engineering change processes.
• Author, review, and approve engineering reports, manuals, and other technical documentation.
• Present designs and technical analyses to engineering leadership and project stakeholders

What You Bring

• Associate's degree in Mechanical Design, Mechanical Mechanical Design Technology, or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Significant applied experience with Creo Parametric and Windchill (or equivalent CAD/PLM systems).
• Advanced knowledge of CAD/PLM systems and configuration management best practices.
• Strong working knowledge of drafting standards, including ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret complex design requirements and develop original, practical engineering solutions.
• Experience with hardware design, fabrication, assembly techniques, material selection, testing processes, and manufacturing methods.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow complex engineering drawings, specifications, sketches, and procedures.
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to detail, accuracy, and independent follow-through.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly.

Bonus Points For

• Demonstrated technical or project leadership experience.
• Experience developing staffing plans, safety notes, mentoring engineers or designers, and contributing to performance development.
• Familiarity with project management methods and tools.
• Experience using CAD-supported Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to support conceptual and detailed design decisions.

Pay Range:

$138,100 - $207,000 USD

Total Compensation & Benefits for Eligible Employees

• Industry-competitive salary
• Equity plan
• 6% employer 401k matching
• Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.

Pacific Fusion is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Pacific Fusion is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures and throughout employment. If you need assistance or any accommodation, please let us know.

Pacific Fusion does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies without a fully executed recruitment agreement in place. In the absence of such agreement, Pacific Fusion reserves the right to pursue and hire any candidates without an obligation to pay fees. Agencies are requested not to contact Pacific Fusion hiring managers or employees regarding recruiting services.