Senior Process Engineer

Milpitas, CA
Superconductor – Superconductor R&D /
Full-time /
On-site
About Commonwealth Fusion Systems: 

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.

Combining decades of research, top talent and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. 

We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised over $2 billion in capital – more than any other fusion energy company in the U.S.

Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team. 

If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.

Join the power movement as a Senior Process Engineer

We are seeking an experienced process engineer with strong data analysis skills to join our team. This CFS Senior Process Engineer will be responsible for supporting the installation and the process qualification of new equipment and will oversee continuous improvement activities. This role involves working with advanced vacuum systems, thermal processes, wet processes, and transforming complex datasets into actionable insights. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to drive process improvements through thoughtful, well-communicated analysis.

This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.

What you'll do:

    • Work within a multi-disciplinary and proven team of top scientists and engineers
    • Own the process development and qualifications of key process equipment
    • Develop and conduct design of experiments for process development and characterization
    • Proactively analyze data to answer key questions and drive process efficiency, and engineering improvements
    • Develop and maintain data collection processes that support engineering and production workflows
    • Trace and document data requirements, sources, and flows; contribute to the development of data models
    • Apply Lean Six Sigma or similar methodologies to improve production processes and reduce variability
    • Use statistical methods to analyze complex datasets, identify patterns, and support data-driven experimentation and decision making

What we’re looking for:

    • At least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science)
    • 5 to 10 years of relevant experience
    • The ability to conceive novel solutions to challenging problems
    • An exceptional safety record and attention to detail
    • Familiarity with engineering systems in challenging environments
    • Knowledge of high-vacuum systems and associated infrastructure
    • Deep knowledge of thin-film deposition technologies
    • Skill with data acquisition and analyses
    • Hands-on experience with vacuum equipment including maintenance and troubleshooting of complex vacuum deposition systems
    • Hands-on experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau (dashboards, reports, interactivity)
    • Experience with statistical methods (e.g., control charts, capability analysis, regression, hypothesis testing)
    • Experience using statistical software such as JMP, Minitab, or similar tools
    • Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to translate technical findings into actionable recommendations

Bonus points for:

    • Knowledge of in situ and ex situ metrology tools and methodologies
    • Knowledge of thin-film characterization tools and methodologies
    • Proficiency in SQL and Python for data manipulation and analysis

Must-have Requirements:

    • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
    • Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
    • Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, and cryogenics
    • Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
$110,000 - $185,000 a year
Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefitsThe actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Benefits include:
•  Competitive compensation with equity
•  12.5 Company-wide Holidays
•  Flexible vacation days
•  10 sick days
•  Generous parental leave policy
•  Health, dental, and vision insurance
•  401(k) with employer matching
•  Professional growth opportunities
•  Team-building activities
#LI-Onsite

At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.

We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.