Development and Prototype Machinist

About Pacific Fusion

Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy. We are rapidly designing and building a pulsed magnetic fusion system to achieve net facility gain (more fusion energy output than stored energy input). In parallel, we are developing the key components required to build affordable fusion systems. Our plans are ambitious. We have raised over $900M so far from incredible investors, resourcing us to deliver on these plans.

We are bringing together the best scientists, engineers, and operators from the fusion community, hard tech industry, and other sectors. We are united by a shared sense of urgency to provide clean power for the world, particularly managing climate change while meeting growing global energy demand. You can read more about us in this letter from our founders.

As a Development and Prototype Machinist
, you will play a crucial role in supporting our engineering and delivery teams—producing, modifying, reworking, and troubleshooting parts integral to our fusion energy systems. Your technical skills, attention to detail, and proactive approaches are fundamental to our success.
This opportunity is for day shift.

• Program, set up, and operate CNC and manual machines, including lathes and multi‑axis mills, to produce precision parts and tools from metals, plastics, and potentially composites.
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, and work instructions to meet tolerance requirements.
• Work with engineering teams to document and recommend design for manufacturability improvements.
• Facilitate the transition from development to production by collaborating closely with engineering.
• Assist in the set‑up of new production work areas, including layouts, tooling, and equipment configuration.
• Identify and execute continuous improvement projects to enhance area safety and efficiency.
• Perform second‑party verification of manufactured hardware and assist in the transition from development to production.

• Minimum 10 years of experience as a machinist in a hands‑on setting.
• Ability to work independently through the full programming, fixturing, machining, and inspecting life cycle of parts.
• Proficiency in reading engineering drawings with a good understanding of GD&T.
• Experience manufacturing production and development hardware as well as small tooling.
• Minimum 2 years of programming with CAM software and conversational programming on machines.
• Experience performing basic preventive and reactive maintenance of machine tools.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and/or electromechanical systems.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions and protocols.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Experience driving a forklift and using hand power tools.

• Experience using Creo, Fusion 360, or Mastercam CAD/CAM software.
• Experience in hands‑on tasks such as welding, construction, auto mechanics, or other similar tasks.

$50—$65 USD

• Industry‑competitive salary
• Equity plan
• 6% employer 401k matching
• Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.

Pacific Fusion is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Pacific Fusion is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures and throughout employment. If you need assistance or any accommodation, please let us know.

Pacific Fusion does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies without a fully executed recruitment agreement in place. In the absence of such agreement, Pacific Fusion reserves the right to pursue and hire any candidates without an obligation to pay fees. Agencies are requested not to contact Pacific Fusion hiring managers or employees regarding recruiting services.