Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

TAE Technologies, Inc•Irvine, CA

9h•$120,000 - $145,000•Onsite

About The Position

TAE Technologies is seeking a Sr Scientist of Plasma Control at their Foothill Ranch, Orange County CA facility. The primary responsibility of this role is to maintain and advance the development of the Real-time Plasma Control System (RTPCS) for TAE’s current generation fusion device and to design next-generation systems. The RTPCS integrates various plasma diagnostics and actuators into a holistic control system to achieve prescribed plasma performance and maintain stability. This role requires a strong understanding of electromagnetism, Bayesian and ML methods, and advanced non-linear control concepts, particularly FPGA-based architectures. The successful candidate will also need knowledge of advanced mathematical and computational AI/ML methods as AI inference is expected to increase in the RTPCS.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Physics or related field
Demonstrated experience in experimental plasma physics and magnetic confinement fusion research
Proven expertise in real-time control systems, including FPGA-based hardware and firmware development
Experience in programming multitasking Real-Time Operating Systems and embedded control systems.
Proficient in embedded C/C++ programming
Knowledge of system design for embedded platforms established on Model-Based Design approaches (Matlab, Simulink, Stateflow)
Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills
Demonstrated knowledge of good engineering practices and procedures
Strong documenting and organizational skills
Must have the ability to multitask and think in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Work with leadership of Plasma Control Team, developing strategy, design, integration, and execution of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
Collaborate closely with the experimental team to define and implement control algorithms addressing plasma stability, confinement, and performance optimization
Maintain and advance the capabilities of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
Design and develop next generation RTPS for future TAE fusion devices
Coordinate the work of a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists, fostering innovation in advanced control approaches
Publish findings, present at scientific conferences, and engage with the broader fusion community to advance plasma control capabilities
Provide expertise in aligning plasma control development with organizational milestones toward commercial fusion energy
Maintain awareness of technological developments relevant to the control of fusion plasmas
Seek and foster relationships with external partners in the areas of control of fusion plasmas