Mechanical Engineer

Company Overview
Focused Energy is a pioneering fusion energy start-up committed to generating clean electrical energy to responsibly address future global demand. Founded by world-leading laser and plasma physicists together with experienced entrepreneurs, Focused Energy is developing commercial laser-induced inertial fusion technology as a clean, scalable, and economically viable power solution.

Role Summary

The Mechanical Engineer will lead the mechanical design, integration, and installation of all mechanical systems for the TTE project, including mechanical interfaces for the gas gun, diagnostics equipment, support structures, and vacuum subsystems. This role supports multiple development phases, from initial design through testing, operations, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical subsystem designs and interfaces for TTE.

• Create CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings aligned with FE standards.

• Lead the development of vacuum chambers, feedthroughs, mounts, and support structures.

• Support mechanical installation, alignment, and commissioning on-site.

• Conduct mechanical analysis, tolerance reviews, and design optimisation.

• Coordinate with controls, electrical, and laser optics teams to ensure interface compatibility.

• Support ongoing testing, operational readiness, and mechanical modifications as project demands evolve.

• Interact with suppliers, fabricators, and contractors to ensure build quality and delivery.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.

• 5+ years of mechanical design experience, preferably in scientific instrumentation, precision systems, or R&D environments.

• High proficiency with mechanical CAD tools (Autodesk Inventor preferred; SolidWorks acceptable).

• Experience designing and integrating vacuum systems, chambers, feedthroughs, and mechanical support structures.

• Strong understanding of mechanical tolerancing, GD&T, stability, stiffness, and alignment principles.

• Experience supporting system assembly, installation, and alignment in a technical facility setting.

• Ability to generate detailed manufacturing drawings and interface definition documents.

• Hands-on experience with mechanical testing, metrology equipment, or prototype assembly.

• Experience collaborating with suppliers and fabricators on component builds.

• Eligibility to work in the United States (Austin, Texas).

Preferred Knowledge Base

• Proficiency with Inventor, SolidWorks, or equivalent mechanical CAD tools.

• Experience with vacuum systems, chamber design, and sealing technologies.

• Familiarity with precision alignment and mechanical stability control.

• Understanding of scientific instrumentation, gas-dynamic systems, or high-speed mechanical assemblies.

• Knowledge of materials, machining, fabrication processes, and tolerance analysis.

• Experience designing systems for laboratory environments (cleanrooms, vacuum labs).

Personal Qualities

• Strong ownership of engineering tasks with a practical, hands-on mindset.

• Excellent spatial and mechanical intuition.

• Collaborative, open communicator with good documentation habits.

• Adaptable and comfortable supporting changing project priorities.

• Innovative thinker, able to propose solutions within complex mechanical environments.

Work Requirements

• Frequent onsite presence at the Austin facility for installation and assembly work.

• Ability to work with tools, mechanical fixtures, vacuum components, and diagnostic hardware.

• Willingness to support extended hours during installation or test windows.

• Ability to travel for supplier visits, system integration, and design reviews.

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.