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Experimental Plasma Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helion Energy

Principal Experimental Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

$230K - $270K/yr

... of plasma diagnostics, collaborating closely with physicists, engineers, designers, and data ... experimental and operational requirements * Integrate cross-disciplinary technical input from ...

Fusion Energy Base

Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

Irvine, CA · On-site

$135K - $155K/yr

... experimental plasma physics and magnetic confinement fusion research. * Proven expertise in real‑time control systems, including FPGA hardware and firmware development. * Experience programming ...

Thea Energy

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

... engineering, applied plasma physics, chemistry, or a related field. * Knowledge of basic plasma physics. * Experience with vacuum systems. * Experience with experimental plasma setups and diagnostics ...

Thea Energy

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

... engineering, applied plasma physics, chemistry, or a related field. * Knowledge of basic plasma physics. * Experience with vacuum systems. * Experience with experimental plasma setups and diagnostics ...

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Senior Plasma Data Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

This position reports to the Experimental Science Manager at our Everett, WA office and plays a key ... PhD in Physics, Engineering, Applied Math, Computational Science, Machine Learning, or related ...

TAE

Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it ... Collaborate closely with the experimental team to define and implement control algorithms ...

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Experimental Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

Work cross‑functionally with plasma physics, machine operations, controls, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and data science teams to support diagnostic readiness for experimental ...

Helion Energy

Experimental Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

In this role, you will contribute to hands-on experimental work across plasma diagnostics, test campaigns, and high-vacuum systems while partnering closely with scientists, engineers, machine ...

Helion

Experimental Scientist

Everett, WA · On-site

Work cross‑functionally with plasma physics, machine operations, controls, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and data science teams to support diagnostic readiness for experimental ...

Zap Energy

Plasma Device Operations Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

At Zap, a Plasma Device Operations Engineer owns the day-to-day execution of experimental shots on the plasma experimental devices. You will be responsible for machine readiness, shot execution ...

Fuse

Physicist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

... experimental operations. * Strong communication skills across engineering, physics, and operations teams. Preferred Qualifications * PhD in Physics, Plasma Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a closely ...

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All JobsExperimental Plasma Engineer Jobs

Experimental Plasma Engineer information

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How much do experimental plasma engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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.

Head of Experimental Physics

Madison, WI • On-site

Realta Fusion, Inc.
Electric Power Generation • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Realta Fusion, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Lead the experiments that will define the future of fusion energy. The Head of Experimental Physics will lead Realta Fusion's experimental program to advance the physics basis for high-field axisymmetric mirror fusion. This role is responsible for setting the strategic direction, execution, and growth of the company's experimental physics efforts, while remaining technically engaged in key research initiatives.
This leader will oversee experimental campaigns on the Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror (WHAM) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, guide the development of advanced plasma diagnostics, and drive the experimental roadmap for Realta's next-generation device Hammir. The role requires close integration with theory, modeling, and engineering teams to ensure alignment between experimental results and device design.
The Head of Experimental Physics will build and lead a high-performing team, establish strong external collaborations with national laboratories and academic institutions, and represent Realta's experimental program through publications, conferences, and partnerships.
Realta Fusion is a rapidly growing start-up developing compact magnetic mirror fusion energy systems to address the biggest challenge of our time -tackling global climate change while ensuring a sufficient energy supply for at least ten billion people on (and off) earth. We are building a team with diverse talents dedicated to making fusion energy a real solution to humanity's most pressing problem.
Responsibilities
  • Define and execute Realta's experimental physics strategy aligned with the fusion roadmap.
  • Set priorities for experimental campaigns, diagnostics development, and validation efforts across WHAM and Hammir.
  • Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing experimental physics team.
  • Lead the design, execution, and analysis of experimental campaigns on WHAM and future devices.
  • Oversee the development and deployment of advanced plasma diagnostics and ensure high-quality data collection and analysis.
  • Collaborate closely with theory, modeling, and engineering teams to integrate experimental insights into simulation and device design.
  • Partner with business leadership to align technical milestones with company objectives.
  • Establish and manage collaborations with national laboratories, universities, and industry partners.
  • Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present at leading conferences; serve as a spokesperson for Realta's experimental program.
  • Lead or support grant proposals, partnerships, and funding opportunities to expand experimental capabilities.
  • Establish and enforce safety standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
  • Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and mission-driven team environment that supports professional growth and innovation.

Required Qualifications
  • PhD in Plasma Physics or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in experimental plasma physics, including leadership of research programs or teams.
  • Deep experience with plasma diagnostics (e.g., bolometers, electrostatic analyzers, interferometers, magnetic probes, spectrometers, neutron diagnostics, x-ray detectors, Thomson scattering, etc.).
  • Proven track record designing, building, and deploying diagnostics on fusion or plasma experiments, including high-vacuum systems (10⁻⁹-10⁻⁸ torr).
  • Strong understanding of plasma heating and current drive techniques (e.g., ECH, NBI, RF heating, bias-induced rotation).
  • Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and large-scale experimental programs.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong publication record and/or demonstrated intellectual property contributions in plasma or fusion research.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in both academic and startup or national lab environments.
  • Track record of securing research funding or leading successful grant proposals.
  • Experience scaling experimental programs or building new research capabilities.

What we are working on is hard... and hugely important. Realta Fusion is assembling a talented team bound together by a passion to solve humanity's biggest challenge with first-of-a-kind technology. Additionally, Realta offers:
  • Competitive compensation package, including equity stock options
  • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k)
  • Flexible paid time off (PTO) to support work-life balance
  • Work and live in Madison, Wisconsin - one of America's most livable and vibrant cities

We value diversity as a critical factor in innovation and believe a diverse team is necessary to solve the toughest problems. We aim to create an inclusive environment that unleashes the full creativity of our team members from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

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