Lead Experimental Physicist

Job Description Job Description Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!
As the Lead Experimental Physicist, you will be responsible for independently driving complex laser-based experiments from definition through execution and analysis. This role requires strong experimental physics judgment, deep interest in the underlying science, and the ability to quickly learn and master sophisticated systems. You will design experiments, develop/upgrade diagnostics, analyze and interpret data, and continuously identify opportunities to improve experimental performance. You will work closely with scientists, engineers, technicians, shot directors, and leadership, serving as the technical driver for assigned experimental programs.
We are looking for our scientists and engineers to apply their technical expertise, problem solving skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact the future of energy!
Responsibilities Act as the primary experimental owner for assigned laser experiments
Rapidly learn and develop deep understanding of complex experimental platforms, including lasers, diagnostics, and supporting subsystems
Design and execute experiments involving lasers, spectroscopy, imaging, and time resolved measurements
Develop and apply appropriate diagnostics to understand system performance and debug experimental issues
Translate high level scientific objectives into detailed experimental designs and test plans
Review experimental results critically, identify limitations, and drive systematic improvements
Perform quantitative post processing and analysis of spectroscopy and imaging data
Modify, extend, and maintain data processing and analysis scripts
Produce clear technical reports, presentations, and publishable quality results
Interface with the scientific board and senior scientists to understand experimental priorities and required outcomes
Collaborate closely with technicians and engineers, providing technical direction, mentoring, and training
Troubleshoot nontrivial experimental, diagnostic, and system level issues
Work effectively across disciplines, including experimentalists, theorists, engineers, and technicians
Qualifications PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field, or equivalent experience
Strong hands-on experience with laser-based experiments
Solid understanding of optical and laser diagnostics
Demonstrated ability to independently drive complex experimental work
Experience debugging complex experimental systems and diagnosing root causes
Willingness to learn pulsed power concepts
Proficiency in data analysis and post processing
Strong written and verbal communication skills
High level of motivation, curiosity, and ownership mindset
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee of granted asylum
Desired Familiarity with excimer lasers
Experience in laser gain dynamics
Experience with laser wavefront measurement
Experience with deformable mirrors
Experience with phase plates
Experience with gas kinetics
Experience with vacuum systems.
Experience operating and aligning pulsed laser systems
Experience producing scientific publications
Experience working in multidisciplinary research laser facilities, such as national labs
Experience with Matlab, Python, and LabVIEW.
Prior experience mentoring technicians or junior team members
Candidates may be considered for other positions at Xcimer Energy, and our actual base salary will be determined on an individual basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. The range is published in accordance with Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and California Equal Pay Act. Equal Employment Opportunity Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information on “EEO Is the Law,” please see hereandhere. Benefits Xcimer offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, well-being, and long-term success. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption; and a 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Eligible employees also receive equity, allowing them to share in the company’s long-term success.Xcimer operates under a flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach. Rather than a fixed number of vacation days, employees are trusted to take the time they need to rest and recharge while meeting the expectations of their role and team. In addition, employees receive paid sick time, 13 company-paid holidays, and an annual paid company shutdown. Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.