Staff Mechanical Engineer – Remote Maintenance

About the role

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is designing ARC, the world’s first commercial fusion power plant. The Staff Mechanical Engineer – Remote Maintenance will lead the development of ARC’s remote maintenance system, integrating robotics, remote handling equipment, and plant layout to enable fast, reliable, fully remote maintenance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead strategic execution of operations for the ARC Remote Maintenance System.
• Drive conceptual design of the fusion plant, providing technical guidance across cross‑functional teams.
• Design radiation‑hardened remote handling equipment (RHE) using a mix of existing robotics and custom hardware.
• Perform expert maintenance assessments of the tokamak and plant to define processes and mitigate long‑term risks.
• Conduct multi‑disciplinary trade studies involving physics, neutronics, thermo‑fluids, structures, and techno‑economics.
• Define and own R&D strategy for remote maintenance, managing internal and external campaigns.

Required profile

• B.S. in Structural, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (M.S. preferred).
• 10+ years of experience designing, fabricating, testing, and integrating complex mechanical systems.
• 10+ years of experience designing remote handling equipment using robotics or precision mechanical structures.
• Proven track record leading R&D campaigns that advance technology readiness levels.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.

Required skills

• Remote handling equipment (RHE) design and robotics integration.
• CAD (NX preferred) and finite element analysis (Ansys).
• Structural analysis, actuation, guidance, and sensing mechanisms.
• Radiation‑hardened equipment design.
• Mechatronics, remote welding/cutting, and inspection technologies.
• Ultra‑high‑vacuum processes and high‑power control systems.

What we offer

• Salary range $130,000 – $200,000 per year plus equity.
• Competitive benefits: 13 company holidays, flexible vacation, 10 sick days, parental leave, health/dental/vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer matching.
• Professional growth opportunities and team‑building activities.