Senior Machinist

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ

Posted on: 2026-10-01

Category: energy

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Employment type:

Full time

Experience required:

Senior

Salary

Salary not provided

About the company:

Thea Energy is building an economical and scalable fusion energy system utilizing arrays of mass manufacturable magnets and dynamic software controls. Commercial fusion energy can uniquely provide a abundant source of zero-emission power for a sustainable future. Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in computation and controls to reinvent the stellarator, a scientifically mature form of magnetic fusion technology. Thea Energy was founded in 2022 as a spin-out of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory and Princeton University, where the stellarator was originally invented. Thea Energy is currently designing its first integrated fusion system, Eos, based on its planar coil stellarator architecture which will produce fusion neutrons at scale and in steady-state.

About Thea Energy:

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and quality-driven Senior Machinist to program, operate, set up, and maintain our machine shop operations as we pioneer next-generation fusion energy technology. In this hands-on role, you will bridge the gap between rapid R&D prototyping and small-run production, operating both manual equipment and 3-axis CNC machines to fabricate high-precision components. You will be responsible for end-to-end machining execution—from reading complex technical drawings and programming toolpaths using High-Efficiency Machining techniques to performing setup, quality inspection, and routine CNC equipment troubleshooting. Working directly alongside engineering and production teams in a fast-paced environment, you will optimize workflows and contribute directly to building zero-emission stellarator architectures.

It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

Key Responsibility Areas:
• Operate and maintain the machine shop including CNC machines, manual machines, and basic metrology equipment to produce high-quality precision components according to engineering specifications.
• Set up CNC machines, including tooling, fixtures, and programming, to ensure efficient and accurate production runs.
• Set up workflows and tooling to enable switching from production to one-of-a-kind parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to understand machining requirements including GD&T.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of CNC equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime. Work with outside vendors when necessary.
• Conduct quality inspections using precision measurement tools to verify part dimensions and tolerances.
• Adhere to safety procedures and regulations to maintain a safe working environment for yourself and others.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize manufacturing processes and improve productivity.

Required Experience & Skillsets:
• 8+ years of experience operating 3-axis CNC machines in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in a prototyping setting
• Knowledge of HEM machining and tooling techniques
• Hands-on experience with manual machines such as Lathes and Mills.
• Proficiency in CNC machine setup, programming, and operation, with a strong understanding of machining principles.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T).
• Experience with precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail to identify and resolve machining issues.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members and convey technical information.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Commitment to safety protocols and practices to ensure a safe working environment.

Desired Qualifications:
• Certification or formal training in machining or related fields.
• Experience with Fusion 360 CAD/CAM software for CNC programming.
• Familiarity with a variety of machining materials, including steel, copper, nickel alloys, plastics, and composites.
• Knowledge of additional machining processes such as milling, turning, drilling, and grinding.
• Willingness to cross-train and learn new technologies and machining techniques.

Company Benefits

Company Benefits:

• Base Pay: $32.00 – $52.00+ per hour (Non-Exempt / OT Eligible)
• Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
• Employee equity stock options
• 20 days PTO