Production Director

Job Description

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.

Combining decades of research, top talent and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future.

We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised over $2 billion in capital – more than any other fusion energy company in the U.S.

Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team.

If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.

Join the power movement as a Production Director.

CFS Production Directors are the main drivers of building CFS’ innovative, world-changing technology in time to make a difference for our planet. In this role, you will be responsible for one of CFS’ main production lines for SPARC, our first commercial fusion prototype device. You will manage a cross-functional, collaborative team to develop new manufacturing processes and equipment, ramp-up to full-scale production, and drive continuous improvement of the production line. You will be responsible for developing and building your team and executing plans to meet the company’s strategic goals. Your areas of focus are team leadership, technical project management, and manufacturing process development and scaling.

What you'll do

• Manage and lead a team of manufacturing engineers, test engineers, technicians, and inventory clerks responsible for processing and testing all HTS (high-temperature superconductor) material for SPARC
• Manage the internal Machine Shop to support rapid prototyping for the production lines and SPARC engineering needs
• Own process stabilization and continuous improvement of one of CFS’ main production lines from initial low-volume prototypes to full-scale production
• Lead the team to build in-house products safely, quickly, and reliably to achieve company milestones
• Project manage the builds of production hardware collaboratively with a diverse team of manufacturing engineers, technicians, supply chain, R&D engineers, facilities, EHS, quality, and external contractors. Organize project milestones and schedule to meet strategic targets
• Develop and oversee project plans and budget including capital equipment, cost management strategies, and resource allocation
• Communicate project status, risks, and resource requirements to the team & senior leadership
• Lead the team using Lean manufacturing principles, process flow maps, work instruction standardization, and nonconformance management
• Influence make vs. buy decisions and work with external vendors to augment internal capabilities

What we're looking for

• Bachelor's degree in engineering field is required
• 10+ years' experience as a manufacturing engineering director or senior manager in new manufacturing production launch / new facility startups
• Experience taking products from R&D into production, including developing manufacturing techniques to transition from manual to automated processes
• Project management experience working with internal customers and external vendors to deliver manufactured hardware within specified timelines and budgets
• Leadership, team-building, and mentoring skills
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated understanding of project management processes, strategies, and methods
• Experience mentoring, coaching, and developing rising talent in engineering disciplines
• Excellent time management and organizational skills and experience establishing guidelines in these areas for others
• Strong sense of personal accountability regarding decision-making and supervising department teams
• Experience working in a high-level collaborative environment and promoting a teamwork mentality
• Managerial experience applying analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Flexible thinking, including the ability to pivot and try new approaches when faced with challenges
• Proficiency using presentation software to explain complex information to non-technical management personnel and other stakeholders
• Ability to work on multiple projects in various stages simultaneously

Bonus points for

• 15+ years’ experience in leadership roles for new manufacturing production line launches
• Experience with electromagnets, superconductors, thin film applications, assembly processes, or thermo-mechanical assemblies is preferred
• Experience with the application of Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience developing ERP/MES/testing software in manufacturing start-up environments

Must-have requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally

$150,000 - $250,000 a year

Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation with equity
• 12.5 Company-wide Holidays
• Flexible vacation days
• 10 sick days
• Generous parental leave policy
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Professional growth opportunities
• Team-building activities

At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.

We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.