Thermal Mechanical Analyst/Engineer – IFE Target Survival

Overview:

We are seeking a Thermal Mechanical Analyst/Engineer to lead the analysis and tests of inertial fusion energy (IFE) target survival. The cryogenic targets will need to survive high speed launch into the high temperature, gas-filled power plant chamber. Determination of target material property performance metrics to allow target survival, and tests of materials to meet these metrics are a key role for the power plant.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop and conduct thermal and mechanical analyses of the target launch (injection) into the power plant chamber, providing metrics for IFE target materials for survival of the target.

• Develop tests of target materials to demonstrate the material’s required performance.

• Develop tests to validate thermal mechanical analysis models.

• Assess test data.

• Assist with other power plant thermal mechanical design projects including systems for filling and layering of cryogenic targets, blanket design, and thermal management of laser amplifiers and final optics.

Qualifications:

Required:

• PhD or MS, or experience equivalent, in Engineering, Applied Physics, Physics, or related field.

• Demonstrated ability to model transient multi-physics phenomena including conduction, convection, thermal radiation, and impulse.

• Experience with FEA and DSMC codes.

• Strong analytical data/measurement skills.

Preferred:

• Experience with continuum, transition, and molecular flow heat transport modeling.

• Experience with phase change thermal and transport modeling.

• Experience with fusion, and cryogenic systems.

• Experience modeling deuterium tritium (DT) or other self-heating materials.

• Experience modeling systems of extreme geometric proportions.

Salary & Benefits:

• The base salary range for this role is $125,000 - $225,000; 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.