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Sr Mechanical Engineer
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What they do
A Mechanical Engineer researches, designs, develops, constructs, and tests mechanical devices including machines, engines and tools. Works on devices ranging from power generators to household dishwashers to surgical equipment. May specialize in a particular type of machine or tool. May develop new devices or improve existing ones to run more efficiently.
$119,345 / year median in California
+0% projected growth
Job Description
Sr Mechanical Engineer
TAE Technologies Other Engineering Irvine, CA, USA USD 135k-150k / year + Equity Posted on Sep 4, 2026 Do Epic Science TAE is the world's first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality. We're looking for candidates who are passionate about realizing our mission: A future where all people have affordable access to reliable, abundant, and environmentally friendly fusion-generated electricity. About The Role This position will coordinate and participate in the design and fabrication of various systems and equipment used in the referenced fields. The ability to use depth of mechanical engineering kledge and experience to develop cutting edge technology is the objective. More detailed required and desired skills are described below. This position will be responsible for the coordination and delivery of significant, high value systems/sub-systems.
Collaborate with Engineering, Physics and Operations groups to clarify and define requirements
Develop mechanical systems and designs that satisfy requirements.
Coordinate and organize design reviews
Contribute subject matter expertise to the team
Organize multidisciplinary project teams and make estimates for cost and schedule
Coordinate with electrical, controls, design engineers and engineering analysis staff
Write and/or review specifications and procedures
Locate and select qualified manufacturers
Follow fabrication and delivery of components
Participate in installation and commissioning activities
Some limited travel required About You B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
Physics, Aerospace, and Electrical Engineering would be considered favorably as dual major degrees, supplementary education or as alternatives to Mechanical Engineering for an especially well qualified candidate.
Approximately 10 years of relevant experience in large component design and fabrication for technical industries such as aerospace, nuclear, automotive, petroleum processing, proton therapy, national laboratories, or similar is typical for this role. This is a guideline rather than a fixed threshold: candidates with fewer years but strong alignment with the desired skills described below are encouraged to apply, and candidates newer to some of these disciplines may be considered for a developmental path into the role.
Experience in a research and development environment.
Thorough kledge of engineering fundamentals including basic physics, electromagnetism, statics/dynamics, basic circuit theory, structural mechanics, controls, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer.
Ability to respond flexibly to discovery of new requirements. Much of the work at TAE involves research so change is expected thus the inherent ability to change designs/approaches as the need arises is essential. Preferred Qualifications Experience with project organization tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, Confluence, or other project management tools and working kledge of basic Project Management principles would be considered very favorably.
Ability to coordinate team meetings and prepare/deliver technical presentations to both large and small groups would be beneficial.
Medical Device or aerospace engineering and design process implementation experience
Finite element analysis (FEA) familiarity (structural static, dynamic, electromagnetic, fluids/CFD, particle tracking, etc)
Cryogenics engineering experience
Experience with flow systems undergoing phase change
Experience in the design of electromagnets, up to and including superconducting devices
Basic understanding of high voltage electrical systems
High or ultra-high vacuum system experience (electropolishing, outgassing, cleaning processes, cryopumps, turbopumps, backing pumps, metal seals, getter systems, gate valves, etc.)
Piping system engineering experience (for air, nitrogen, argon, helium, hydrogen, cryogenics, etc.)
Experience with high power RF system design
Experience with particle accelerator systems (electrostatic, linear, synchrotrons, cyclotrons, etc.) At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related kledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr.,). The compensation range for these roles are $135,000 - $150,000. #LI-Onsite About Us Imagination, skill, and will We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world. What you'll get with us Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
Potential for equity participation
HQ in Southern California
Employee events on and off-site
A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization Learn more
tae.com
Our podcast Good Clean Energy
LinkedIn TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us recruiting@tae.com to request accommodations or request more information. Note to
Agencies:
TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable. See more open positions at TAE Technologies