Staff Mechanical Engineer – Vacuum

About the role

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is seeking a Staff Mechanical Engineer specialized in vacuum environments to lead the design and delivery of advanced R&D processing equipment. You will work on cutting‑edge thermal‑vacuum systems that support the development of commercial fusion power plants.

Key responsibilities

• Drive end‑to‑end system design, integration, and validation of thermal‑vacuum equipment.
• Define system‑level requirements and innovative concepts that link mechanical precision to product quality.
• Standardize engineering workflows using semiconductor industry best practices.
• Lead rigorous design reviews focusing on manufacturability (DFx) and mechanical robustness.
• Collaborate with scientists, vacuum specialists, and electrical engineers to manage critical interfaces.
• Report project milestones to stakeholders and ensure on‑time, in‑spec delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers on technical delivery and procedural discipline.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent industrial experience.
• 15+ years of experience designing complex R&D systems or semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
• Proven expertise in high‑temperature structural design and thermal management within vacuum environments.

Required skills

• Thermal vacuum equipment design
• High‑temperature structural analysis
• Thermal management in vacuum systems
• Mechanical system integration
• Design for X (DFx) methodology

What we offer

• Opportunity to impact the future of clean energy through fusion technology.
• Collaborative, fast‑paced R&D environment with top‑tier talent.
• Full‑time, on‑site position in Milpitas, CA.