Materials Test Operator - Second Shift

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 - Second Shift

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.

• 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

• High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higher
• Minimum 2 years experience with with basic materials prep and testing tools
• Minimum 2 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

• Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software is a plus
• Testing to industry or international standards
• Experience operating tensile load frames, strain gauges
• Experience as a microscopist (optical or electron)
• 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

• Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, metallographic Etchants and cryogenics
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• #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.