At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and operate Plasma Control Systems for fusion energy experiments.
- Company: Join UK Atomic Energy Authority, a leader in clean energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, outstanding pension, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of fusion energy and collaborate globally.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or science; experience in software development and control systems.
The predicted salary is between 41786 - 51072 £ per year.
The salary for this role is £43,703 (inclusive of Specialist Allowance) + excellent benefits including outstanding pension. Onsite working is expected for 3 days a week, however, we actively support requests for flexible working. This role can be based at any of the following sites: Culham, Oxfordshire.
This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions and possibly a search of open source data.
As Plasma Control Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the development and operation of Plasma Control Systems (PCS) to ensure that experiments can be conducted on fusion devices. Primarily focused on MAST-U and STEP, the role will also support other tokamaks around the world. This role covers the full lifecycle of control systems development—from defining requirements and system specification to modelling, implementation, commissioning, operation, and eventual decommissioning.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing software support to maintain and develop tools and models to support plasma operations for national and international fusion programmes.
- Contributing towards publications in technical journals and international conferences.
- Training for a role within the MAST-U control room, working with the operational team to configure and safely operate the MAST-U device to achieve experimental goals.
- Contributing to the development, operation and maintenance of software, tools and models for MAST-U Plasma Control System and for the STEP programme.
- Collaborating with, and providing advice to, external organisations within the European Fusion community in the development of software related to plasma control and operations.
- Undertaking software/control system development for other (non-MAST-U) projects for internal and external customers.
- Managing own tasks over days or weeks with attention to quality, timescales and communication.
- Preparing and delivering technical presentations for internal and external forums.
Qualifications:
- Degree in a scientific, engineering or technical subject (e.g. Plasma Physics, Control Engineering, Robotics, Software Engineering).
- Demonstrable experience of developing working, understandable software in at least one language used in scientific or engineering applications (particularly Python, C/C++, Fortran).
- Knowledge and experience of real-time control systems.
- Appetite and ability to learn and apply new technologies.
- Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate well on projects.
- PhD or equivalent research experience working in an academic or industrial research environment.
- Knowledge of plasma physics or fusion fundamentals.
- Experience of Plasma Physics or experimental experience at a fusion research institution.
- Knowledge and experience of developing FPGA solutions for real-time applications.
UK Atomic Energy Authority is committed to being accessible and welcomes talented people from all backgrounds who want to help us achieve our mission of clean energy for all.
Plasma Control Engineer in Abingdon employer: Fusion Energy Base
At Fusion Energy Base, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that will shape the future of energy in the UK. Located at the forefront of fusion technology, we provide a competitive salary package and a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the field of advanced materials and manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Plasma Control Engineer in Abingdon
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Plasma Control Engineer role you’re after at Fusion Energy Base.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Fusion Energy Base a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Fusion Energy Base.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Plasma Control Engineer at Fusion Energy Base, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Plasma Control Engineer in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Plasma Control Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Fusion Energy Base a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Fusion Energy Base specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fusion Energy Base
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Fusion Energy Base, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Fusion Energy Base want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
