Computational Plasma Scientist - Kinetic / PIC Modeling
About The Position
Helion is hiring a Computational Plasma Scientist to run, analyze, and interpret kinetic / Particle-in-Cell simulations that support our understanding of plasma behavior in Helion’s fusion generators. In this role, you will use tools such as WarpX or similar PIC codes to execute defined simulation studies, analyze field and particle outputs, and compare results against experimental data from Helion’s operating machines. You will contribute to physics insight across topics such as plasma startup, RF/plasma interactions, particle transport, sheath behavior, and other kinetic effects that may not be fully captured by fluid or MHD models. This position reports to the Manager of Computational Science at our Everett, WA office and supports Helion’s path toward fusion electricity.
Requirements
- PhD in Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Computational Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field
- Relevant experience running, analyzing, or interpreting kinetic / Particle-in-Cell plasma simulations in academic, national lab, or industry settings
- Strong understanding of kinetic plasma physics and Particle-in-Cell modeling methods
- Experience running and interpreting PIC simulations using WarpX, OSIRIS, VPIC, EPOCH, Smilei, LSP, FBPIC, or comparable codes
- Experience supporting simulation studies, including input setup, boundary conditions, parameter scans, convergence checks, or validation workflows
- Strong scientific programming skills in Python, MATLAB, Julia, C++, Fortran, or similar languages for simulation analysis and visualization
- Ability to operate autonomously on day-to-day technical tasks while communicating progress, risks, and results clearly to computational, experimental, and cross-functional audiences
Responsibilities
- Run kinetic / Particle-in-Cell simulations using WarpX or similar PIC codes to study plasma behavior relevant to Helion’s FRC systems
- Develop and maintain simulation input decks, PICMI scripts, parameter scans, and repeatable workflows for defined kinetic modeling studies
- Analyze field, particle, and diagnostic outputs from PIC simulations using Python or similar scientific computing tools
- Compare kinetic simulation results against experimental measurements and summarize findings into clear technical takeaways
- Work with experimental scientists, diagnostics engineers, RF engineers, and MHD modelers to understand modeling needs, interpret results, and identify when PIC simulations can provide useful insight
- Build analysis scripts, visualizations, and reduced data products that help make simulation results easier to interpret and share across teams
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
- 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
- 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
- Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
- Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
- Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)
- Annual wellness stipend
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
