Staff Systems Engineer

Commonwealth Fusion Systems • Milpitas, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And we're working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world. Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team. If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you. Join the power movement as a Staff Systems Engineer. We’re looking for a Systems Engineer to join our R&D team to serve as the primary Systems Engineer for the next generation of thin-film deposition equipment. You will be responsible for the seamless integration and operation of complex machinery, ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems work in harmony. This role requires a unique blend of technical "tool-sense" and program management. You will be the technical authority for critical utility subsystems, the primary troubleshooter during commissioning, and the lead communicator across functional engineering groups (mechanical, electrical, and controls).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Systems, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent industrial experience)
• 12+ years of experience in the operation, integration, or design of complex R&D systems or semiconductor manufacturing equipment
• Proven ability to manage the interfaces between hardware and software, specifically in motor-controlled and sensor-heavy environments
• Practical experience managing vacuum architecture (pumps, gauges, leak detection) and thermal management systems (chillers, heat exchangers)
• High proficiency in tool troubleshooting; comfortable using diagnostic equipment and navigating software control interfaces
• Demonstrated experience in project accounting and the use of scheduling software to manage complex equipment builds
• Exceptional ability to lead meetings and translate complex technical requirements across different engineering disciplines
• Experience leading in a matrixed environment, driving consensus among diverse functional groups
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally
• Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended periods of time
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics

Nice To Haves

• Experience with the operation of PVD, CVD, or thermal evaporation systems in a manufacturing or high-end R&D environment
• Experience with the system-level integration of roll-to-roll (R2R) material processing tools
• Familiarity with SEMI, ASME, and safety standards for vacuum and high-voltage equipment
• Understanding of PLC or custom software control logic for industrial automation

Responsibilities

• Act as the primary technical owner for critical subsystems, including vacuum pumps, chillers, and gas delivery modules owning Process and Instrumentation Diagrams, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, and general equipment layouts
• Lead the hands-on operation of the equipment; identify, diagnose, and resolve complex electromechanical and software issues during R&D cycles
• Lead technical discussions and bridge gaps between Mechanical (ME), Electrical (EE), and Software (SW) teams to ensure system-level cohesion
• Author and maintain comprehensive equipment specifications and system requirements for new and existing R&D platforms
• Create and manage detailed project schedules and budgets to ensure equipment upgrades and installations stay on track
• Implement and maintain engineering workflows and operational SOPs, using semiconductor standards as your guide
• Report on program progress, and budget variances to key stakeholders

Benefits

• Competitive compensation with equity
• 13 Company-wide Holidays
• Flexible vacation days
• 10 sick days
• Generous parental leave policy
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Professional growth opportunities
• Team-building activities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree