Job Title: Lead Mechanical Engineer - Vacuum Systems

Job Description

The Lead Mechanical Engineer - Vacuum Systems will be responsible for driving the end-to-end design, integration, and optimization of complex vacuum systems for stellarator fusion energy systems. This position serves as the technical lead for vacuum systems across critical programs, ensuring robust performance in challenging technical environments. It is ideal for individuals who thrive on solving complex engineering problems and leading multidisciplinary efforts from concept through commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Own the architecture, design, and system-level integration of advanced vacuum systems, from initial concept through operational deployment.
• Lead the vacuum system architecture for stellarator devices, including chamber design, pumping strategy, outgassing mitigation, and integration with magnetic and structural systems.
• Define system requirements and translate them into detailed specifications for vacuum components, assemblies, and controls.
• Lead vacuum-related trade studies, risk analyses, and system-level design reviews.
• Collaborate closely with plasma physics, magnet systems, cryogenics, and structural teams to ensure coherent integration of the vacuum envelope within the stellarator geometry.
• Interface with mechanical, electrical, controls, thermal, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration across subsystems.
• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for vacuum engineering, mentoring junior engineers and reviewing their work for technical accuracy.
• Ensure all vacuum system designs meet industry and safety standards, including cleanliness, material compatibility, and reliability requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and implement best practices for vacuum system design and maintenance.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline (PhD is a plus).
• 5 plus years of experience in vacuum system design, preferably in complex, multidisciplinary environments.
• Proven experience leading projects, preferably relatable to vacuum system integration projects in high-performance environments (e.g., semiconductor, aerospace, nuclear, or research labs).
• Strong understanding of complex 3D geometries and their implications, ideally for vacuum system design, especially in the presence of strong magnetic fields.
• Direct experience with tritium and/or other radiological aspects of vacuum systems is strongly desired.
• Proficient with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, NX) and simulation software relevant to vacuum engineering.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with vacuum system design in complex, multidisciplinary environments.
• Knowledge of tritium and radiological aspects of vacuum systems.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and simulation software relevant to vacuum engineering.

Work Environment

The role is based in an office environment. Employees enjoy billable holidays and paid time off, which contributes to a balanced work-life atmosphere.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $80.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Oak Ridge,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 27, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $55 - $80