About Focused Energy At Focused Energy, we're at the forefront of pioneering laser-driven nuclear fusion while creating transformative new technologies along the way. One such innovation is our Laser-Driven Radiation Source (LDRS): a compact, high-precision neutron source leveraging advanced laser–plasma physics. Designed to revolutionize non-destructive testing, LDRS offers impactful applications across energy, security, and infrastructure. From enabling safe, long-term storage of nuclear waste to strengthening border protection and advancing the energy transition, this breakthrough not only accelerates our journey toward fusion power but also addresses some of today’s most pressing technical and societal challenges. Join our mission to deliver advanced laser-driven radiation technologies to market readiness! As a Mechanical Engineer, you will play a key role in our product development team, driving the design, integration, and prototyping of critical hardware systems. You will collaborate across disciplines to deliver robust, scalable mechanical solutions that fulfill technical, regulatory, and operational requirements. Scope & Context Organizational Placement: Core member of the Optical Section Development Department, primarily supporting the LDRS Source Light team, based hybrid in Darmstadt. Breadth of Ownership: Responsible for the end-to-end mechanical development and implementation of LDRS hardware systems. Key Interfaces: Work closely with internal stakeholders, including optical section engineers, scientists, and physicists involved in the LDRS project. Engage externally with suppliers such as Trumpf and ILF, photonics providers, and approved collaborators. Complexity Drivers: Coordinate across engineering and scientific disciplines; tackle interdependencies and evolving project objectives. Decision Authority: Make decisions related to implementation of mechanical system design and integration, with key outcomes and methods reviewed by project stakeholders. Operating Rhythm: Participate in regular engineering and project milestone meetings. Key Outcomes & Success Measures Team Support & Collaboration: Receive consistent, positive feedback from the LDRS technical team for active engagement and a constructive attitude. Component Ownership: Act as the recognized point person for assigned mechanical modules, components, or deliverables. Project Progress: Clearly communicate and present progress; organize structured design reviews with open issues aligned and addressed with stakeholders. Systematic, Data-Driven Results: Deliver well-structured, evidence-backed documentation and solutions using solid engineering practices. Task Management & Prioritization: Effectively manage priorities in line with overarching project objectives. Measurable Signals: Well-organized technical documentation and transparent processes Projects delivered within agreed timelines, quality, and cost constraints Constructive team relationships and proactive collaboration Predictable, stable deliverables and communication with stakeholders Key Responsibilities Own the conceptual and detailed mechanical design for complex hardware systems, ensuring alignment with all functional and performance requirements. Lead integration of mechanical systems with optical, electrical, and software components for cohesive product performance. Take responsibility for mechanical component development, balancing quality, cost, timing, and risk. Develop and implement test and validation plans to ensure mechanical system reliability and performance. Identify, align, and manage suppliers critical to turning designs into manufacturable, reliable hardware. Lead and actively participate in design reviews, ensuring manufacturability and compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards. Innovate by researching and developing novel mechanical concepts and solutions. Expectations: Leadership & Expertise Behaviors & Leadership (Soft Skills): Collaborate within multi-disciplinary teams to achieve pragmatic project solutions. Lead the development of subsystem components; influence systemic decision-making and technical tradeoffs. Communicate proactively and effectively with diverse technical and non-technical audiences. Technical Expertise (Hard Skills): Minimum of five years' hands-on experience in mechanical design and development, ideally in laser-driven or high-precision hardware systems. Deep understanding of materials, mechanical integration, tolerancing, and CAD tools. Strong background in simulating, analyzing, and prototyping mechanical assemblies. Practical experience with supplier management and production of precision components. Proven problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to validate innovative solutions. Ready to push the boundaries of fusion technology? Apply now to be part of our pioneering team at Focused Energy! Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.