Mechanical Engineer - Thermal and Structural Analysis

Overview

Inertia Enterprises is developing the technologies to build the world’s first fusion energy power plant. At our 48,000 sq.ft. facility in Livermore, CA, we are seeking a Mechanical Engineer – Thermal & Structural Analysis to lead analysis and support the mechanical design of critical components and structures of the Inertia integrated power plant.

This role will develop the design and analysis of components and structures that must survive the harshest conditions known to engineering— intense x-ray and neutron flux, high temperatures, extreme thermal gradients, high pressures, high power laser beams, among others. The role will provide key analysis to design our fusion engine structures, including the first wall and breeding blanket structures. It will also support analysis for design and fabrication of high-power laser delivery components and fusion target materials.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop the mechanical design and 3D modeling of the fusion engine key systems, structures and components: chamber, first wall, blanket, vacuum chamber, piping.

• Lead mechanical design and thermal-structural analysis of key components such as the engine first wall and tritium breeding blanket, in steady-state and transient conditions. Optimize structures for heat removal, thermo-mechanical longevity, manufacturability.

• Evaluate the effects of cyclic heat flux, creep loading, fatigue loading on chamber components using relevant models, codes and standards to predict the operational lifespan of the fusion core. Account for effects of irradiation (displacement per atom and helium) in thermal mechanical analyses.

• Conducts thermal and structural analyses and parametric studies to validate and optimize materials choices and mechanical designs, capturing insights and results in technical documentation and reports

• Actively participates in design reviews and risk matrix development, helping to identify technical gaps, track open action items, and incorporate feedback from various stakeholders into the design.

• Perform finite element analysis and thermal-mechanical analysis on other key structures and components as needed, including stress analysis of helium-cooled high-power laser optics and parts and thermal and structural stability of fusion target sub-structures.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials, Nuclear, Structural or a related engineering discipline.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical design and analysis of structural materials

• Expert-level skills in mechanical design and computer-aided design (CAD)

• Expertise in finite element analysis using codes such as ANSYS or Abaqus applied for stress and thermal analysis

• Knowledge of FEA and other spatial/time discretization techniques for partial differential equation (PDE) systems.

• Familiarity with application of numerical material models to metallic systems, structures and components

• Experience with alloys and metals, high temperatures, high heat fluxes, and/or effects of neutron irradiation

Desired:

• Working knowledge of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Codes, with specific interest in high-temperature service rules.

• Experience/knowledge in Computational Materials Science or Mechanics preferred

• Experience developing scientific codes and softwares using C++, Fortran, python or similar programming language

• Experience with nuclear fission or fusion technologies

Salary & Benefits:

• The base salary range for this role is $125,000 - $225,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.

• We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!

About Inertia:

Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.