Thermal Mechanical Analyst/Engineer – IFE Target Survival

Thermal Mechanical Analyst/Engineer – IFE Target Survival Overview: We are seeking a Thermal Mechanical Analyst/Engineer to lead the analysis and tests of inertial fusion energy (IFE) target survival. The cryogenic targets will need to survive high speed launch into the high temperature, gas-filled power plant chamber. Determination of target material property performance metrics to allow target survival, and tests of materials to meet these metrics are a key role for the power plant. Primary Responsibilities: - Develop and conduct thermal and mechanical analyses of the target launch (injection) into the power plant chamber, providing metrics for IFE target materials for survival of the target. - Develop tests of target materials to demonstrate the material’s required performance. - Develop tests to validate thermal mechanical analysis models. - Assess test data. - Assist with other power plant thermal mechanical design projects including systems for filling and layering of cryogenic targets, blanket design, and thermal management of laser amplifiers and final optics. Qualifications: Required: - PhD or MS, or experience equivalent, in Engineering, Applied Physics, Physics, or related field. - Demonstrated ability to model transient multi-physics phenomena including conduction, convection, thermal radiation, and impulse. - Experience with FEA and DSMC codes. - Strong analytical data/measurement skills. Preferred: - Experience with continuum, transition, and molecular flow heat transport modeling. - Experience with phase change thermal and transport modeling. - Experience with fusion, and cryogenic systems. - Experience modeling deuterium tritium (DT) or other self-heating materials. - Experience modeling systems of extreme geometric proportions. Salary & Benefits: - The base salary range for this role is $125,000 - $225,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education. - We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more! About Inertia: Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.