Principal Stellarator Coil Optimization Specialist

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.

We are seeking highly motivated plasma physicists and mathematicians to join our team, focusing on the optimization of electromagnetic coils for stellarator magnetic fields. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in nonlinear optimization. Experience with magnetic confinement of plasma is a plus. You will work with an exciting and dynamic team, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement algorithms for the optimization of the configuration of electromagnets.
• Conduct optimizations of stellarator electromagnetic coil systems considering metrics for plasma performance, maintainability, and economics.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to design a stellarator fusion system.
• Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into the parametric dependence of coil systems.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on simulation results and optimization findings.
• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in computational plasma physics, fusion energy, and optimization techniques.

Required Experience & Skill Set

• PhD Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field and 7+ years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of numerical optimization.
• Experience with magnetic plasma confinement, especially stellarators, is a plus.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in scientific computing (e.g., Python, Fortran, or MATLAB).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage projects.
• Strong attention to detail and a passion for advancing the field of fusion energy research.
• Willingness to collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers within the company and externally.
• Experience with stellarator and coil optimization, and software tools such as STELLOPT, SIMSOPT, DESC, FOCUS. Familiarity with fusion devices. Familiarity with advanced numerical optimization including nonlinearly constrained optimization and/or combinatorial optimization. Experience in high-performance computing (HPC) environments.

Company Benefits

• Salary range $150,000-$210,000
• Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
• Employee equity stock options
• 20 days PTO
• Work-life balance

It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.

Diversity and Inclusion

Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.