Senior CNC Machinist

Xcimer Energy is a fusion energy company focused on commercializing laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, which it describes as the only scientifically validated form of fusion energy. The company is developing high-energy excimer laser systems designed to ignite fusion reactions using fuel derived from seawater and lithium, with the goal of delivering safe, clean, and affordable electricity that is cost-competitive with fossil fuels and renewables. Its mission centers on decarbonizing energy-intensive sectors such as artificial intelligence infrastructure, desalination, and industrial processes that require firm, always-on, carbon-free power. Xcimer's technical approach relies on electron-beam-pumped excimer lasers combined with a pulse compression technique called Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (SBS), which compresses microsecond laser pulses to nanosecond durations without damaging optics. In 2024 the company broke ground on Phoenix, its first prototype high-energy laser system, located in Denver, Colorado, and announced the start of its operations in June 2026. Phoenix is the first electron-beam-pumped excimer laser built in the private sector in more than two decades and validates key elements of the company's low-cost laser fusion architecture. Xcimer's longer-term target is Athena, which it describes as the world's first laser fusion power plant, expected to deliver 400 megawatts of continuous clean energy by 2035. The company has received a U.S. Department of Energy approval of its fusion power plant preconceptual design and technology roadmap milestone, and collaborates with industrial partners such as TRUMPF Laser SE. With a team of nearly 200 engineers, physicists, and business professionals, Xcimer positions itself as the most technically mature private laser fusion company.

Responsibilities

CNC Machining & Manufacturing Execution 

• Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC equipment (mills, lathes, and specialty equipment) for complex prototype and low‑volume parts. 

• Develop, optimize, and maintain machining strategies, tool paths, feeds/speeds, and workholding for R&D components. 

• Perform in-process inspections using precision measurement tools and adjust processes to maintain tight tolerances. 

• Drive first‑time quality through disciplined machining practices and root‑cause analysis when issues arise. 

 

Application Engineering & Technical Leadership 

• Translate engineering models and drawings into efficient, manufacturable machining processes. 

• Partner closely with Design Engineering to provide DFM/DFX feedback, resolve ambiguities, and suggest enhancements. 

• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to refine process flows, tooling strategies, and equipment capability. 

• Support project teams by evaluating machining feasibility, material selection impacts, and part design risks. 

 

Cross‑Functional Collaboration 

• Work directly with Project Managers and Project Leads to prioritize work, align expectations, communicate risks, and ensure timely delivery. 

• Serve as a technical liaison between machining operations and internal customers, enabling fast iteration cycles and clear communication. 

• Coordinate internal logistics, including material routing, part movement, and scheduling within the shop. 

 

Vendor & Supply Chain Coordination 

• Partner with internal Sourcing and Logistics teams to manage material procurement, outsourced operations, and incoming inspection. 

• Ensure external partners meet internal quality standards. 

 

Continuous Improvement in a Startup Environment 

• Contribute to the development of machining standards, shop documentation, and scalable workflows appropriate for a growing fusion startup. 

• Evaluate and recommend new equipment, tools, fixturing, or software to increase capability and reduce lead times. 

• Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and rapid learning. 

Qualifications

• 7–10+ years of CNC machining experience with at least 3 years in prototype or R\&D environments. 

• Strong proficiency in CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion 360, hyperMILL, NX CAM). 

• Deep understanding of materials used in energy systems (stainless steels, nickel alloys, refractory metals, engineered plastics, etc.). 

• Experience with GD\&T, high‑precision inspection methods, and tight‑tolerance machining. 

• Proven ability to collaborate with engineering teams and communicate clearly with technical and non‑technical stakeholders. 

• Experience working in fast‑paced, ambiguous environments—preferably in hardware startups, aerospace, energy, or robotics. 

• Ability to self-direct work, manage multiple priorities, and maintain composure under time pressure. 

 

 

Desired