Materials Scientist or Engineer – Precision Sphere Production

Overview:

We are seeking a Materials Scientist to lead the development of mass production of several mm sized precision silicon spheres for next-generation fusion targets. This role will pioneer advanced precision techniques for mass production of precision fusion capsules on machines to enable large-scale manufacturing on the scale of a 10 Hz manufacturing rate.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop equipment and processes for grinding, polishing, lapping spheres or alternative techniques.

• Develop/oversee creating low cost feed stock for sphere production with single crystal silicon.

• Implement precision metrology appropriate for mass production of spheres.

• Assist with polishing of diamond overcoated spheres.

• Investigate other related materials issues needed in the production of targets at mass scale.

Qualifications:

Required:

• PhD or MS, or experience equivalent, in Materials Science, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.

• Experience with ceramics or other brittle materials.

• Strong analytical measurement skills.

Preferred:

• Demonstrated ability to work with mass production machines or processes.

• Experience polishing to a high degree of smoothness.

• Experience with sphere or ball manufacturing.

• Familiarity with process scale-up or industrial mass production.

Salary & Benefits:

• The base salary range for this role is $150,000 - $285,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.

• We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!

About Inertia:

Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.