At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of innovative systems for sustainable energy solutions.
- Company: Proxima Fusion, a pioneer in fusion energy technology.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Diverse team culture focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team tackling complex challenges in clean energy.
- Qualifications: Mechanical engineering experience with CAD proficiency and systems architecture skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Proxima Fusion, we're driven by a bold mission – to redefine the future of sustainable energy. Our unique concept, built upon the groundbreaking W7-X stellarator and the latest advances in technology, paves the way for commercially viable fusion power plants.
To fully grasp this huge opportunity, we’re building a team of extremely dedicated and passionate people who come together driving something extraordinary, radically transforming technology in the world.
WHY JOIN PROXIMA FUSION
- You will get to work on some of the most complex tech challenges to bring abundant, safe, clean energy to the world.
- You'll get to join and learn from an exceptional selection of accomplished and driven individuals.
- Do your life’s best work and enjoy the journey.
- Get to show that big things are possible in Europe when you assemble the best talent.
YOUR IMPACT
As the first wall design lead for the net energy Alpha stellarator, you will take ownership of the design and integration of the system that provides the barrier between the high-energy plasma and the superconducting magnets of the integrated Alpha design. This role demands high-level systems thinking, technical judgement, and the ability to make impactful design decisions in areas where the “right” answer is not immediately clear. You’ll build and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers and align closely with the Alpha plasma physics effort to identify, prototype and demonstrate a design that can withstand the challenging heat, particle and structural load environment whilst delivering on the ambitious Proxima timescales.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Provide innovative solutions to the complex engineering challenges by collaborating closely with physicists to ensure component designs meet the Alpha plasma physics and thermal-mechanical constraints.
- Architect the first wall sub-system within a growing, high-performance cross-functional team of engineers, physicists, and data scientists, engaging with other systems and system leads to ensure alignment and cohesion across the full concept design.
- Communicate technical strategy, progress, and risks clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Lead the first wall through concept design with detailed analysis and prototyping, using first principles reasoning, simulation, tests and prototyping to make and validate key design decisions.
- Interface with the Alpha project management teams to drive the delivery of the first wall to meet the tight Proxima timelines.
WHO YOU ARE
- Experienced mechanical engineer with high heat flux thermal and mechanical design experience, including proficiency in CAD software (preferably CATIA).
- Proven track record in systems architecture and leading complex engineering efforts, including conceptual design development where decisions have been made with limited data, and trade-offs have been required between competing requirements.
- Demonstrated knowledge of mechanical engineering principles relevant to high-energy physics environments.
- Experience validating first-of-a-kind designs with uncertain performance through a combination of multi-scale and multi-physics simulations, testing, and prototyping.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and work within multidisciplinary technical teams in fast-paced, dynamic settings.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and persuasively.
INTERVIEW PROCESS
- Recruiter Interview (30-60 min).
- Technical Screening (30 min).
- Technical Panel (3x60 min).
- CEO call (30 min).
At Proxima Fusion, our mission is bold: making limitless clean energy a reality. To get there, we need a high-performing, diverse team that brings different perspectives, challenges assumptions, and builds together with purpose. We know that diversity of thought and experience leads to better ideas, stronger execution, and a more resilient team. We don’t look at how you identify, what you look like, who you choose to worship or what ethnicity you are. We care about what you can bring to the table.
Lead Design Engineer - First Wall System employer: Proxima Fusion
Proxima Fusion is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable energy innovation in Europe. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and encourages employees to tackle complex engineering challenges, while our commitment to professional growth ensures that every team member can develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to our mission of delivering clean fusion energy. Join us and be part of a passionate team dedicated to transforming technology and making a real impact on the world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Design Engineer - First Wall System
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Proxima Fusion.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Proxima Fusion love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Proxima Fusion and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Design Engineer - First Wall System
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Proxima Fusion and the Lead Design Engineer - First Wall System role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Proxima Fusion
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Proxima Fusion.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Proxima Fusion.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Proxima Fusion, making you a more appealing candidate.
