Materials Test Operator

About Commonwealth Fusion Systems:

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 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 over $2 billion in capital – more than any other fusion energy company in the U.S.

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 Materials Test Operator

The Materials Department at CFS is looking for a materials test operator to support the materials testing and characterization laboratory. Materials at CFS supports the design and engineering of all components needed for fusion systems and high temperature superconducting magnets. Working closely with the team lead for materials testing and characterization, the team of materials test operators provides continuous support for both industry standard and customized material and component testing. This includes communication between multiple internal stakeholders, detailed data reporting, equipment maintenance and upkeep, production line support, and continuous improvement. Current and future laboratory equipment includes but is not limited to: mechanical and electrochemical, metallographic specimen polishing and preparation, visible light and electron microscopy, high temperature heat treatments, static and dynamic mechanical testing in a wide range of environments (including cryogenic and high temperature), magnetic property evaluation, and other thermophysical tests. The materials test operators will be responsible for conducting these tasks.

What you'll do:

• Prepare test specimens and performs laboratory experiments
• Conduct continuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratory
• Complete inventory management on consumable/spare parts and report up for purchasing
• Execution of materials tech tickets in accordance with the standard operating procedures and job hazard analyses
• Operate industry standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methods
• Conduct materials testing independently under the input from a materials test engineer including data management and reporting
• Complete mechanical testing including tensile testing, shear testing, fatigue testing, fracture toughness testing and other custom testing in extreme environments of cryogenic temperatures and high temperatures
• Complete materials characterization including metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy and imaging, hardness testing, magnetic and electrical testing.
• Support in installing, maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment for effective usage as needed
• Have the ability and desire to work on multiple, different assignments
• Have the flexibility to adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedules
• Maintain proper documentation with attention to detail
• Be comfortable with performing repeated tests while still maintaining test quality
• Perform other related job duties as assigned by management

What we’re looking for:

• High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higher
• 3+ years experience with with basic materials prep and testing tools
• 3+ years experience with a variety of technical support skills including but not limited to mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiring
• Participate in and promote CFS’ safety procedures and policies
• Desire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changes
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff and others
• Ability to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasks
• Strong problem solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativity
• Strong written and oral communications skills & techniques
• Effective root cause analysis and problem-solving skills
• Proficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Ability to comply, interpret and support procedures, work rules, and protocols

Bonus points for:

• Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software
• Testing to industry or international standards
• Experience as a microscopist (optical and/or electron)
• Experience with strain-gage application for mechanical test specimen
• Experience using electrical test devices
• Experience with metallographic sample preparation and analysis
• Experience with hazardous chemical use and management
• Experience with vacuum systems
• Experience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etc
• Ability to follow engineering procedures and instructions
• Understands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes.
• Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid Helium

Must-have Requirements:

• Perform activities such as typing, standing, stooping, climbing or 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, metallographic Etchants and cryogenics

$30 - $41 an hour

Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits . The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation with equity

• 12.5 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

#LI-Onsite

At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.

We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.