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Computational Plasma Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thea Energy

Computational Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on stellarator and fusion plasma physics simulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background ...

Thea Energy

Computational Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on stellarator and fusion plasma physics simulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background ...

Fuse

Computational Physicist

San Leandro, CA · On-site

Conduct magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations to study plasma dynamics in fusion and Z-pinch ... Strong background in computational plasma physics and high-energy-density physics. * Experience ...

Helion Energy

Computational Plasma Scientist - MHD

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Helion is hiring a Computational Plasma Scientist to support MHD modeling and simulation efforts ... You will work closely with scientists and engineers across plasma physics, electrical systems ...

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How much do computational plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational plasma physicist in the United States is $168,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $155,500.00 and $182,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main collaborative aspects of working as a computational plasma physicist in a research team?

As a Computational Plasma Physicist, you will often collaborate closely with experimental physicists, engineers, and software developers to develop and validate plasma simulation models. Teamwork is essential, as insights from simulations are frequently integrated with experimental data to advance understanding or inform the design of new experiments. Regular meetings, code sharing, and interdisciplinary problem-solving are common, fostering a collaborative environment where communication and adaptability are highly valued. This structure also provides opportunities to learn from experts in adjacent fields and to contribute to high-impact research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational plasma physicist?

To thrive as a Computational Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically supported by a PhD in physics or a related field. Expertise with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Fortran), high-performance computing environments, and simulation software like Particle-In-Cell (PIC) codes is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in interpreting complex data and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for developing accurate models, advancing plasma research, and translating theoretical work into practical applications.

What is the difference between Computational Plasma Physicist vs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer?

AspectComputational Plasma PhysicistComputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer
Required credentialsPhysics or engineering degrees, specialized in plasma physicsEngineering degrees, specialized in fluid mechanics or aerospace engineering
Work environmentResearch labs, academia, energy, and space industriesAerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing industries
Industry usagePlasma applications, fusion research, space physicsDesign and simulation of fluid systems, aerodynamics

While both roles involve computational modeling, a Computational Plasma Physicist focuses on plasma phenomena and related applications, whereas a CFD Engineer specializes in fluid flow simulations. The roles share similar skills in numerical methods but differ in industry focus and specific expertise.

What does a computational plasma physicist do?

A Computational Plasma Physicist uses computer models and simulations to study the behavior of plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of charged particles. They develop algorithms and run large-scale simulations to understand plasma dynamics in various contexts, such as fusion energy, space physics, or industrial applications. Their work helps predict plasma behavior in experiments and supports the development of new technologies. Collaboration with experimental physicists and engineers is common, as their findings guide further research and practical applications.
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What job categories do people searching Computational Plasma Physicist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Computational Plasma Physicist jobs are:

Computational Plasma Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Plasma Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,844 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Computational Plasma Physicist

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

About Thea Energy:  
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future. 
 
Position Overview:
We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on stellarator and fusion plasma physics simulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in computational physics, with a particular emphasis on MHD stability in stellarators and stellarator optimization. You will work with minimal supervision, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement algorithms for analyzing and improving stellarator configurations.
  • Conduct simulations and analysis of fusion plasma behavior in stellarators, using advanced computational models.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to refine designs and improve the performance of stellarator systems.
  • Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into the physical mechanisms governing plasma behavior.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on simulation results and optimization findings.
Required Experience & Skillsets:
  • PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or master’s degree in relevant field with 2+ years of experience.
  • Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.
  • Experience with stellarators is a plus.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in scientific computing (e.g., Python, Fortran, C++, or MATLAB).
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with any of the stellarator design, stability or transport codes such as DESC, STELLOPT, VMEC, TERPSICHORE, M3DC-1, GX, GENE-3D.
  • Understanding of optimized stellarator magnetic field generation and coil optimization techniques.
  • Experience in high-performance computing (HPC) environments.

Personal Attributes:

  • Ability to work independently and manage projects with minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and a passion for advancing the field of fusion energy research.
  • Willingness to collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers within the company and externally.
Company Benefits:
  • Salary range $120,000 - $140,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO
It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.  
  
Diversity and Inclusion:  
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.  
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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.

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About Thea Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2022

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