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Experimental Plasma Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TAE

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced ...

TAE

Senior Scientist - Plasma Diagnostics

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... We are seeking a Sr. Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) who will develop in-situ boundary ...

Helion Energy

Director of Plasma Physics

Everett, WA · On-site

$289K - $315K/yr

Drive experimental plasma and fusion deliverables to completion in collaboration with Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, R&D, and Production teams. Required Skills: * Advanced degree in ...

LAM RESEARCH Corporation

RF/Plasma Engineer 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$119K - $220K/yr

The impact you'll make As a RF/Plasma Engineer at Lam, you play a crucial role in designing ... Analyzes equipment to establish operating data, conducts experimental tests and evaluates results.

Lam Research Corporation

RF/Plasma Engineer 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$119K - $220K/yr

The impact you'll make As a RF/Plasma Engineer at Lam, you play a crucial role in designing ... Analyzes equipment to establish operating data, conducts experimental tests and evaluates results.

Helion

Senior Plasma Data Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

... experimental results • Collaborate with plasma‑physics, pulsed‑power, and ... Required : • PhD in Physics, Engineering, Applied Math, Computational Science, Machine Learning ...

Lam Research

RF/Plasma Engineer 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$119K - $220K/yr

The impact you'll make As a RF/Plasma Engineer at Lam, you play a crucial role in designing ... Analyzes equipment to establish operating data, conducts experimental tests and evaluates results.

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Experimental Plasma Engineer information

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How much do experimental plasma engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for experimental plasma engineer in the United States is $47.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.46 and $61.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an experimental plasma engineer?

An Experimental Plasma Engineer is a professional who designs, conducts, and analyzes experiments involving plasma—the fourth state of matter, consisting of ionized gases. They work in research or industrial settings to develop new plasma-based technologies, such as fusion energy, plasma propulsion, or advanced material processing. Their work involves setting up and maintaining laboratory equipment, interpreting experimental data, and collaborating with scientists and engineers from various disciplines. This role is vital in advancing our understanding of plasma physics and its practical applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an experimental plasma engineer?

To thrive as an Experimental Plasma Engineer, a strong background in physics, electrical engineering, and plasma science, often supported by an advanced degree, is essential. Familiarity with diagnostic tools like Langmuir probes, high-vacuum systems, data acquisition software, and simulation platforms such as COMSOL or MATLAB is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies are critical for conducting complex experiments, ensuring accurate data analysis, and advancing research in plasma technology.

What are some common challenges faced by experimental plasma engineers when working on plasma diagnostics and experiments?

Experimental Plasma Engineers often encounter challenges in maintaining stable plasma conditions and accurately measuring plasma parameters due to the complex and dynamic nature of plasma environments. Troubleshooting diagnostic equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and interpreting experimental data can also be demanding. Successful engineers collaborate closely with physicists, technicians, and computational modelers to design experiments, analyze results, and optimize plasma performance, often iterating through multiple setups to achieve reliable outcomes.

What is the difference between Experimental Plasma Engineer vs Fusion Research Scientist?

AspectExperimental Plasma Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or related fields; often requires hands-on lab experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, experimental facilities, and plasma laboratories within energy or research institutions
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, government labs, and energy companies focused on plasma and fusion technology
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and career paths in plasma and fusion research

Experimental Plasma Engineers focus on designing, operating, and maintaining plasma experiments, often working hands-on in labs. Fusion Research Scientists typically conduct theoretical and experimental research to advance fusion energy, often with a broader scientific scope. Both roles require strong physics backgrounds and collaborate closely in fusion projects, but the Engineer role emphasizes practical experimentation and system operation.

What are popular job titles related to Experimental Plasma Engineer jobs?

For Experimental Plasma Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Experimental Plasma Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,164 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA • On-site

TAE
See more jobs at TAEexternal

$125K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Do Epic Science
TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality.
We're looking for candidates who are passionate about realizing our mission: A future where all people have affordable access to reliable, abundant, and environmentally friendly fusion-generated electricity.
The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced diagnostic systems focused on radiation and fast ion physics for the C-2W fusion device. This role involves designing and operating advanced spectroscopic systems (including Doppler spectroscopy, charge-exchange recombination spectroscopy, filtered PMT arrays, visible Bremsstrahlung, and fast imaging), X-ray detectors, and fast ion / fusion product diagnostics (proton and neutron detectors, fast ion loss detectors, and neutral particle analyzers).
About The Role
  • The successful candidate will join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division under the guidance of the Lead Scientist.
  • Develop and refine diagnostic techniques to characterize key plasma parameters such as fast ion distributions, electron dynamics, thermal ion and neutral properties, radiation profiles, and energetic particle modes.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to design, implement, and maintain detector systems, optical setups, vacuum hardware, and associated instrumentation.
  • Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
  • Analyze complex experimental data with advanced modeling and simulation tools, interpreting results within the broader fusion research program.
  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal meetings, project reviews, and scientific conferences.
  • Contribute to the design and testing of new or upgraded diagnostic systems in collaboration with scientists and engineers.
  • Maintain laboratory infrastructure while strictly following all safety protocols.
  • Promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.

About You
  • 2-5 years post-PhD experience in experimental plasma physics, with a strong focus on radiation and fast ion diagnostics or closely related fusion diagnostics.
  • Demonstrated success in planning and conducting experiments, analyzing results, and delivering technical reports or peer-reviewed publications.
  • Proficiency with plasma diagnostic instrumentation, optical systems, and high-vacuum systems.
  • Hands-on experience building, deploying, troubleshooting, and maintaining diagnostics on plasma research devices.
  • Familiarity with fusion diagnostics and associated radiation safety protocols.
  • Experience with data analysis using Python (preferred) or similar tools.
  • Working knowledge of simulation tools for modeling plasma behavior.
  • Experience with project collaboration and document management platforms.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for multidisciplinary collaboration.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in team environments to meet project objectives and deadlines.

Education
  • Required: Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr., Lead or Manager). The compensation range for these roles are $125,000-$140,000.
About Us
Imagination, skill, and will
We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.
What you'll get with us
  • Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
  • Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
  • A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
  • Potential for equity participation
  • HQ in Southern California
  • Employee events on and off-site
  • A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more
tae.com
Our podcast Good Clean Energy
Instagram
LinkedIn
TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us recruiting@tae.com to request accommodations or request more information.
Note to Agencies: TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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