Helion
Principal Experimental Scientist - RF
$230K–$270K
Everett, WA · On-site · Principal · Full-time · Posted May 6, 2026
- Experience
- 10+ years of experience.
- Education
- Ph.D. in physics, plasma physics, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline with strong relevance to RF plasma systems, plasma sources, or fusion experimentation.
About the job
Leads development of RF pre-ionization systems for Helion’s fusion generators, turning plasma physics goals into experimentally validated hardware and reliable startup capability.
What you'll do
- Own RF pre-ionization development from concept and experimental design through validation and performance improvement.
- Lead hands-on RF hardware, antenna and coupling design, plasma diagnostics, and experimental operations.
- Coordinate cross-functional development and contribute to technical roadmaps for RF-driven plasma startup.
What they ask for
- Ph.D. in physics, plasma physics, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline relevant to RF plasma systems, plasma sources, or fusion experimentation.
- 10+ years in advanced laboratory or R&D environments, including hands-on plasma generation, RF hardware, vacuum systems, and experimental campaigns.
- Deep expertise in RF plasma source development, antenna/coupling design, RF-plasma interactions, or related high-energy plasma hardware.
- Experience with plasma diagnostics and data interpretation, and a demonstrated record of leading complex experimental programs through validation.
Pay
$230K – $270K (USD, base salary)
Tools
RF hardware, antenna and coupling design, plasma diagnostics, vacuum systems
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative