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.

The Materials Department at CFS is looking for a materials test operator to support the materials

testing and characterization laboratory. Materials at CFS supports the design and engineering of all

components needed for fusion systems and high temperature superconducting magnets. Working

closely with the team lead for materials testing and characterization, the team of materials test

operators provides continuous support for both industry standard and customized material and

component testing. This includes communication between multiple internal stakeholders, detailed

data reporting, equipment maintenance and upkeep, production line support, and continuous

improvement. Current and future laboratory equipment includes but is not limited to: mechanical and

electrochemical metallographic specimen polishing and preparation, visible light and electron

microscopy, high temperature heat treatments, static and dynamic mechanical testing in a wide

range of environments (including cryogenic and high temperature), magnetic property evaluation,

and other thermophysical tests. The materials test operators will be responsible for conducting these

tasks.

This team member will:

Prepare test specimens and performs laboratory experiments
Conduct continuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratory
Complete inventory management on consumable/spare parts and report up for purchasing
Execution of materials tech tickets in accordance with the standard operating procedures and job hazard analyses
Operate industry standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methods
Conduct materials testing independently under the input from a materials test engineer including data management and reporting
Complete mechanical testing including tensile testing, shear testing, fatigue testing, fracture toughness testing and other custom testing in extreme environments of cryogenic temperatures and high temperatures
Complete materials characterization including metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy and imaging, hardness testing, magnetic and electrical testing.
Support in installing, maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment for effective usage as needed
Have the ability and desire to work on multiple, different assignments
Have the flexibility to adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedules
Maintain proper documentation with attention to detail
Be comfortable with performing repeated tests while still maintaining test quality
Perform other related job duties as assigned by management

The ideal candidate will have most, if not all, of these requirements:

High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higher
Minimum 2 years experience with with basic materials prep and testing tools
Minimum 2 years experience with a variety of technical support skills including but not limited to mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiring
Participate in and promote CFS’ safety procedures and policies
Desire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changes
Meticulous attention to detail
Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff and others
Ability to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasks
Strong problem solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativity
Strong written and oral communications skills & techniques.
Effective root cause analysis and problem-solving skills
Proficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Ability to comply, interpret and support procedures, work rules, and protocols

Additional preferred experience and/or qualifications:

Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software is a plus
Testing to industry or international standards
Experience operating tensile load frames, strain gauges
Experience as a microscopist (optical or electron)
Experience using electrical test devices
Experience with metallographic sample preparation and analysis
Experience with hazardous chemical use and management
Experience with vacuum systems
Experience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etc
Ability to follow engineering procedures and instructions
Understands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes.
Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid Helium
Perform activities such as typing, 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, metallographic Etchants and cryogenics
Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
#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.

Apply now

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