Lead Structural Engineer

We are a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, with the mission to build the world's first fusion power plant, enabling a future with unlimited clean electricity. Our vision is a world with clean, reliable, and affordable energy for everyone.

Since Helion's founding in 2013, we have raised over $1 billion from long-time investors such as Sam Altman, Mithril, and Capricorn Investment Group and new investors SoftBank and Lightspeed to propel us forward. Our last prototype, Trenta, completed 10,000 high-power pulses and reached plasma temperatures of 100 million degrees Celsius (9 keV). Now, we're turning up operations for Polaris, working towards delivering the world's first fusion power plant.

More than ever, it's a pivotal time to join us and have the opportunity to solve real challenges to create a better energy future. You will see first-hand how we value urgency, rigor, ownership, and hard truths, knowing it will take each to do what no one has before. Joining us, you will push the boundaries of what's possible and transform humanity for the better - because the world can't wait.

What You Will Be Doing

Helion is seeking a Lead Structural Engineer to drive the design, analysis, and implementation of structural systems for our cutting-edge facilities and commercial fusion power plants. This role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of fusion energy by ensuring the structural integrity and safety of critical infrastructure. You will collaborate across Engineering, Production, Test, Facilities, and Construction teams to support both new builds and ongoing improvements. As a key leader, you will own projects from concept through completion, balancing technical excellence with speed of execution. This position reports to the Chief of Staff at our Everett, WA headquarters.

You Will

• Lead the structural design and analysis of new buildings, testing facilities, and research structures
• Write and review engineering calculations, drawings, and specifications to ensure compliance with building code standards
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including architects, mechanical engineers, and civil engineers to integrate structural solutions into broader project goals
• Oversee engineering contractors, ensuring the timely and high-quality execution of drawings
• Conduct site assessments and inspections, identifying and resolving structural issues in real-time during construction
• Drive innovation in materials, construction techniques, and design approaches to support Helion’s rapid development timelines
• Ensure regulatory compliance, including seismic, wind, and load-bearing requirements, for all structural projects

Required Skills

• 8+ years of structural engineering experience in industrial, commercial, or high-tech facilities (bonus points for previous civil engineering experience)
• Current Professional Engineering license for Structural Engineering
• Expertise in steel, concrete, and composite structures, with a strong understanding of load analysis and failure modes
• Experience managing structural projects from concept through construction, including working with contractors and permitting authorities
• Proficiency in structural analysis software and CAD tools
• Ability to problem-solve under pressure and manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously

Total Compensation and Benefits

Helion's compensation package includes a competitively benchmarked base salary, meaningful equity grants, and comprehensive benefits. Final compensation is determined through a holistic evaluation of your experience, qualifications, and our commitment to internal equity - ensuring fairness and transparency across our teams. We are committed to fostering a fair and equitable environment in every aspect of our operations, including compensation.

This is an exempt salaried role.

Annual Base Pay

$151,000 - $201,000 USD

Benefits

Our total compensation package includes benefits, including but not limited to:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans for employees and their families
• 31 Days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days)
• 10 Paid holidays, plus company-wide winter break
• Up to 5% employer 401(k) match
• Short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance
• Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks)
• Annual wellness stipend

Helion is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the interview process, please let us know.