OBA Research Scientist/Engineer – Fusion Energy Systems

About Pacific Fusion
Pacific Fusion is developing the next generation of pulsed magnetic fusion energy systems — compact, modular, and manufacturable — to deliver clean, reliable, and scalable power to the world. We bring together top talent from government laboratories, industry, and academia to solve the toughest applied physics and engineering challenge in human history.

We build things, not just sustain them. Our next project is to build the world’s first net facility gain inertial fusion system by 2030. We have the team and resources to do it - come join us!

Position Overview
Pacific Fusion seeks accomplished scientists and engineers with expertise across the spectrum of fusion energy disciplines. This role is for professionals from U.S. national laboratories interested in pursuing an Outside Business Activity (OBA) in fusion energy under the expanded opportunities provided by Section 10720 of the CHIPS and Science Act. Under the new CHIPS Act framework, national laboratory staff can directly participate in advancing fusion energy science and technology as a Pacific Fusion employee outside of their day job at the lab.

Key Technical Domains
We welcome applicants with expertise in any of the following fusion energy fields:

• Fusion Energy Science and Technology including plasma physics, fusion science, advanced materials, and all related fields

• Fusion Energy Target Design

• Fusion Energy Code Development

• Fusion Energy Diagnostics

• Fusion Energy Target Fabrication and Precision Manufacturing

• Fusion Energy Modeling and Simulation

• AI/ML for Fusion Energy Applications

• Fusion Energy Systems Engineering

• Fusion Energy Data Analysis

• Fusion Energy Experiments (using existing public-sector experimental capabilities)

• Fusion Energy Experimental Operations (including radiation and industrial safety)

• Control Systems (human safety, machine control and safety, data collection integrity)

• Power Plant Secondary Systems

• Fusion Energy Technologies, including pulsed power systems, lasers, materials, optics, target injection and tracking, radiation chamber dynamics, fuel cycle, facility operations, cryogenics, vacuum technology, precision machining, and all other associated fields

• Fusion Energy Technology Peer Review

• Fusion Energy Technology Concept Ideation

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to fusion energy R&D projects from concept through prototype.

• Collaborate across disciplines to integrate fusion energy target design, fabrication, diagnostics, and supporting technologies into deployable systems.

• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international fusion energy conferences.

• Work hard, have fun, feel rewarded, and make a difference!

Qualifications

• A top 1% performer who gives 1000% and has a deep desire to win.

• A current national laboratory employee interested in joining PF through OBA.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S. with significant experience) in physics, engineering, or related discipline.

• Strong computational, experimental, or engineering skills relevant to fusion energy research.

Why Join Us

• Contribute directly to the development of commercially deployable fusion energy systems.

• Collaborate with a world-class team bridging public–private innovation in fusion energy.

• Flexible work options: positions are available from 5 to 40 hours per week with competitive salary, equity, and benefits.

Compensation
Compensation is negotiable and ranges from a full-time equivalent salary of $200,000 to $350,000 per year plus company equity, depending on experience and qualifications. Pay will be prorated based on the agreed weekly hours. Lunch will be provided when working at a Pacific Fusion facility.

Support for Navigating OBA
Pacific Fusion will provide resources to help you understand and navigate your laboratory’s OBA processes, ensuring compliance while enabling your participation in advancing fusion energy research with us.

Alternatives to OBA
If this OBA process turns out not to be right for your needs, we have many career openings at PF!

How to Apply
Send an email to [email protected] expressing your interest in working with PF through OBA. No commitment is implied by this email.