Mechanical Design Engineer in Oxford

At Proxima Fusion, we are 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.

Our work in stellarator optimization, powered by cutting-edge computation and machine learning, is propelling us into uncharted territories of fusion technology. New higher performance design points are unlocked by high temperature superconducting magnets.

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 will 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 a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will significantly contribute to the design, analysis, validation and realisation of Proxima’s Alpha stellarator fusion machine. Your innovative and detailed engineering work will deliver robust mechanical, structural, and thermal performance of critical systems, tooling and manufacturing processes. You will also work with external collaborators and suppliers to develop the designs, equipment, systems and materials that will enable Proxima’s mission to deliver clean, sustainable fusion energy.

What You Will Do

• Develop innovative solutions and detailed mechanical designs for significant systems within the Alpha stellarator, ensuring integration with the broader physics, mechanical and structural systems.
• Carry out thermal and structural analysis and assessment of mechanical designs, providing design input and implementing recommended design improvements.
• Conduct technology trade-offs, materials selections and feasibility studies to facilitate the successful identification of the Alpha net energy stellarator.
• Design, deliver, and support the prototyping and verification of the components, materials, assemblies and manufacturing processes selected for Alpha.
• Work with external suppliers and collaborators to assist and guide the development and manufacture of the components and systems that will come together to demonstrate the net energy Alpha stellarator.

What We Are Looking For

• High performers with excellent communication and problem-solving skills who love challenges and are not afraid to experiment, take risks, and learn from mistakes.
• Experience in designing and analysing mechanical components and assemblies, with proficiency in CAD (experience with 3DExperience/CATIA v6 and ANSYS is highly beneficial, but not essential).
• Experience in designing and delivering the conceptual and detailed design of mechanical, structural, thermal or electro-mechanical equipment, particularly for use in research, development, prototyping and manufacturing.
• Knowledge and experience of designing and selecting materials for some or all of the following engineering applications: high temperature, cryogenic, electromagnetic, vacuum.
• Demonstrated ability to work with and manage external suppliers, with multidisciplinary technical teams in fast-paced, dynamic settings.
• Proficiency with programming languages used in science and engineering (particularly Python) is highly beneficial but not essential.

INTERVIEW PROCESS

• Recruiter Interview (30-45 min)
• Portfolio Presentation & Review (45-60 min)
• Technical Panel Interviews (2x60 min)
• CEO call (30 min)

Successful applicants will be assigned to one of the Engineering teams within Proxima, depending on their specific skills, location, and the needs of the organisation.

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.