Associate Magnet Systems Engineer

PPPL’s Engineering Experimental Devices Group (EDG) is a multidisciplinary team focused on maintaining and operating state-of-the-art plasma physics research devices. We specialize in high-field magnets, diagnostics, and plasma facing components for fusion energy and plasma physics experiments at PPPL. The core competencies of EDG include the operation, maintenance and upgrade of high vacuum components and systems, high heat flux components, coupled electro-mechanical systems in high EM flux environments, material science, metrology, and in-vacuum motion devices.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties: 

This position primarily supports National Spherical Torus eXperiment Upgrade (NSTX-U) Tokamak Magnet systems, however support of other aspects of the NSTX-U machine operations and other experiments at PPPL is expected.

Tokamak Magnet Systems Engineering (100%):

• Provide technical oversight of operations, maintenance, and configuration management for experimental operations; define and oversee maintenance, testing, and repair activities on assigned systems.
• Develop and maintain procedures, specifications, maintenance and inspection plans, drawings, and training material to ensure safe and reliable operation during the systems life cycle.
• Define and maintain spare parts inventory.
• Provide design support for corrective maintenance of system components, including insulation systems, water fittings, coil related diagnostics.
• Prepare and maintain engineering calculations and systems models to support system control and automation, understand performance limitations, document operational limits, and set alarm thresholds.
• Evaluate data collected during installation, testing, commissioning, and operations to make recommendations for improved design or operational practices.

Associate engineering candidates work closely with their supervisors receiving specific instructions about required tasks and expected results on various PPPL engineering projects and assignments. The supervisor may screen assignments for difficult problems and select the techniques and procedures to be applied to non-routine work. For training and developmental purposes, assignments may include work that is typically performed at a higher level. As the engineering staff member becomes proficient, the individual will perform duties more independently.

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience with the design and fabrication of electromagnets would be advantageous.
• Experience in a scientific or R&D environment is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Familiarity with basic mechanical design and analysis.
• Ability to work with a diverse group of researchers, engineers, and technicians; familiarity with ANSYS, COMSOL, Python, Solidworks, CREO will be advantageous.

Physical Requirements: 

• Full or fully corrected vision, correct depth and color perception, occasional close work, work in low light conditions.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Full hand, arm and leg mechanical dexterity and coordination.
  • Ability to work near static magnetic fields without medical restrictions.
  • Capable of climbing ladders, continuous walking, standing or sitting.
• Will work in environments with industrial hazards such as potential oxygen deficiency, high noise, confined spaces, elevations, radiation, and where electrically/mechanically energized equipment may be present.
• Routinely wear protective clothing and equipment, primarily hardhats, safety glasses, and electrical PPE.

Working Conditions: 

• Most work will be done at the PPPL shops and laboratories, though vendor visits may be required when supporting ongoing projects.
• Work will generally be 1st shift, though 2nd shift work may be required depending on facility schedules. Staff in the section may potentially provide two-shift coverage in support of experimental operations and maintaining routine communication and supervision with all assigned staff is required.
• On-call duties requiring occasional off-hours response to emergency or alarm conditions.
• May involve work in confined spaces, use of fall protection, other job-specific PPE.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.