About this opportunity
Zap Energy Inc. lists this Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory) opportunity in everett, Washington. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
The planet urgently needs safe, reliable, zero-carbon energy without waste. Nuclear fusion can address the scale of this problem, but for decades, existing fusion approaches have not proven a net positive energy gain. Zap Energy has rethought the fundamental technology of fusion. As the only company using sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch, we present potentially the fastest path to commercially available fusion energy.
As a Research Scientist (Theory), you’ll play a critical role in advancing our understanding of Z-pinch operation. Working closely with our Theory & Modeling team, you’ll develop fluid and kinetic plasma models that guide experimental design and operation. Your work will help predict key plasma behaviors—like density and temperature—and inform strategies for sustaining stable fusion conditions.
Responsibilities:
Develop and implement models that capture essential physics in the formation and sustainment of the sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch
Build computational tools and techniques for simulating pulsed power flow, compression physics, shock heating, turbulent transport, plasma sheaths, atomic and molecular reactions, two-fluid effects, and 3D phenomena
Validate models against experimental data and refine predictive capabilities
Collaborate with experimental teams to integrate modeling insights into device design and operation
Share findings through publications and presentations at conferences
Qualifications
Required:
Master’s degree in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or a closely related field
Strong knowledge of scientific computing and algorithms (CFD, MHD, continuum kinetic modeling, PIC, etc.)
Proven ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively
Demonstrated publication record
Preferred:
Ph.D. in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or related field
Experience validating computational models to experiment
Familiarity with kinetic plasma physics and modeling
Background in pulsed power circuits and design
Knowledge of atomic and molecular physics of plasmas or combustion reaction chemistry
Experience in industry using modeling to support product development
Expertise in sub-grid modeling of turbulent transport and high-performance computing workflows
Estimated salary range: $100,000-150,000 annual.
Zap Energy also offers the following:
Competitive compensation
Matching retirement contributions
Flexible vacation and paid company holidays
Zap Energy is building a low-cost, compact and scalable fusion energy platform that confines and compresses plasma without the need for expensive and complex magnetic coils. Zap’s sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology offers the shortest potential path to commercially viable fusion and requires orders of magnitude less capital than traditional approaches. Zap Energy has over 60 employees in two facilities near Seattle and is backed by leading financial and strategic investors.
Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act.
Zap Energy Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
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Worksite address
everett, WA, 98213, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.