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Plasma Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helion Energy

Director of Plasma Physics

Everett, WA · On-site

$289K - $315K/yr

We are looking for a Director of Plasma Physics to lead a team of scientists and engineers in the design, implementation, and testing of devices and technologies aimed at enhancing fusion plasma ...

Fuse

Physicist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Strong understanding of plasma physics, pulsed-power systems, or nuclear effects testing. * Ability to make sound technical decisions under time pressure during live experimental operations. * Strong ...

ASML

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer Introduction to the job ASML US, including its affiliates and subsidiaries, bring together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop ...

Thea Energy

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking a highly motivated Plasma-Materials Scientist to join our team, focusing on plasma ...

Thea Energy

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking a highly motivated Plasma-Materials Scientist to join our team, focusing on plasma ...

ASML

Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

As a Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer within the EUV Source Performance team, you will play a critical role in validating and optimizing EUV source performance to ensure products meet or exceed ...

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How much do plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plasma physicist?

A Plasma Physicist studies ionized gases, known as plasmas, which are found in stars, fusion reactors, and various industrial applications. They conduct experiments, develop simulations, and apply theoretical models to understand plasma behavior. Their work is essential in advancing fusion energy, space physics, and technologies like plasma thrusters and semiconductor manufacturing. Plasma Physicists often work in research institutions, government labs, or private industry.

What kinds of research projects or experiments do plasma physicists typically work on?

Plasma Physicists commonly engage in experimental and theoretical research related to controlled fusion, space plasma phenomena, or plasma applications in material processing and medicine. Their work often involves designing and conducting experiments using advanced equipment such as magnetic confinement devices, lasers, or high-voltage systems. Collaboration with engineers, computational scientists, and other physicists is typical to analyze data and optimize experimental setups. Plasma Physicists also frequently present findings at conferences and publish in scientific journals, contributing to ongoing advancements in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plasma physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically supported by a PhD in plasma physics or a related field. Familiarity with specialized simulation software, diagnostic instrumentation, and laboratory equipment such as tokamaks or plasma reactors is common. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective scientific communication are essential soft skills for success. Together, these skills enable Plasma Physicists to conduct complex experiments, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to advancements in research and technology.

How much do plasma physicists make?

Plasma physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Those working in research, government labs, or private industry with advanced skills and certifications tend to earn higher salaries.

What does a plasma physicist do?

A plasma physicist studies the properties and behavior of plasma, the fourth state of matter, often using advanced laboratory equipment and computer models. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories related to plasma phenomena, which are important in fields like fusion energy, space science, and industrial applications.
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Plasma Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Physicist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Director of Plasma Physics

Everett, WA • On-site

Helion Energy
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Helion Energyexternal

$289K - $315K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead a team of scientists and engineers in the design, implementation, and testing of devices and technologies to enhance fusion plasma performance.

  • Oversee experimental plasma science projects, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation, in collaboration with other teams.

  • Work with leadership to establish organizational goals, manage project schedules, and ensure the achievement of experimental and research milestones.

Job description

About Helion
We are a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, with the mission to build the world's first fusion power plant, enabling a future with unlimited clean electricity. Our vision is a world with clean, reliable, and affordable energy for everyone.
Since Helion's founding in 2013, we have raised $1.5 billion from long-time investors such as Sam Altman, Mithril, and Capricorn Investment Group as well as new investors including Thrive Capital, LightSpeed Venture Capital, SoftBank, and others to propel us forward. Our current prototype, Polaris, has reached record-breaking plasma temperatures of 150 million degrees Celsius (13 keV). Helion is continuing to iterate and on the path to the world's first fusion power plant, Orion.
This is a pivotal time to join Helion. You will tackle real-world challenges with a team that prizes urgency, rigor, ownership, and a commitment to delivering hard truths - values essential to achieving what no one has before. Together, we will change the future of energy, because the world can't wait.
What You Will Be Doing:
We are looking for a Director of Plasma Physics to lead a team of scientists and engineers in the design, implementation, and testing of devices and technologies aimed at enhancing fusion plasma performance. You will report directly to our Senior Director of Science in the organization housing Plasma Physics, Nuclear Science, Materials Science, Fuel Cycle, and Health Physics.
You Will:
  • Build, grow, and lead a team of scientists and engineers who will apply their knowledge and expertise in plasma physics to optimize Helion's fusion devices
  • Provide clear and concise summaries of experimental campaign results, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and adjustments as needed
  • Work with Helion's leadership to establish organizational roadmap, goals, and balance risks for the team that align with our strategy and take full ownership of accomplishing these goals
  • Oversee projects specific to experimental plasma science such as E&M probes; plasma pre-ionization; plasma-material interaction; device design and requirements; full device data collection, analysis and interpretation in coordination with other teams
  • Drive schedule ownership and optimization by team members to accelerate milestones
  • 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 physics, or a related physical science discipline with a minimum of 10 years of scientific research experience and at least 5 years of experience managing a team of scientists or engineers in a research, development, or technology setting
  • Demonstrated experience building and leading multidisciplinary teams
  • Experience managing complex inter-departmental projects (including schedule ownership)
  • Demonstrated experience in applied physics, building and designing hardware

Benefits
Our total compensation package includes benefits, including but not limited to:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
  • 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
  • 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
  • Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
  • Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
  • Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)
  • Annual wellness stipend

Helion is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the interview process, please let us know.

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