Lead Technician, Assembly Testing

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy, designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. Since 2018 it has raised 4 billion USD of capital, making it the largest and leading fusion company in the world. This Lead Technician role, formally the Mechanical Commissioning Field Lead, leads a small team of 2 to 3 technicians executing SASY testing activities under the direction of the Manager of Assembly Testing, with guidance from Test Engineering. Testing runs in parallel with SPARC assembly, so the role may also carry assembly activities, and it comes with daily hands-on responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute complex testing procedures in the field, with a primary focus on mechanical testing including pneumatic pressure proofing and leak detection using a helium leak detector
• Work under the direction of the Manager, Assembly Testing, to execute test procedures
• Serve as front line supervisor for test technicians, providing guidance and instruction to facilitate safe, effective and efficient work
• Identify issues and potential issues proactively, ensure accurate submission to work and quality management systems, and help drive issues to successful conclusions
• Ensure completion of all test documentation accurately and on time
• Coach technicians to embody CFS behaviors and guiding principles in all interactions
• Represent the SASY Test team in collaboration with cross-functional CFS teams as required
• Adhere to the highest standards of safety in accordance with CFS safety policies and applicable regulatory standards

Requirements

Essential: high school diploma; a minimum of 5 years of hands-on mechanical testing experience, with a heavy focus on pneumatic pressure proofing and helium leak detection using mass spectrometers; proven experience leading small to medium-sized crews of technicians on complex mechanical or testing activities; demonstrated experience with high-vacuum hardware, including proficiency plumbing temporary test fixtures and making connections using KF, CF, VCR, compression fittings and NPT; familiarity setting up and connecting vacuum systems, including turbomolecular pumps and leak detectors; mid-level proficiency with Microsoft or Google productivity software. The role also requires the ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs, perform activities such as stooping, climbing, typing, standing or sitting for extended periods, work in a facility with industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, high current, pressure systems and cryogenics, and willingness to travel or work nights, weekends or on-call occasionally. This role requires compliance with U.S. Export Control Laws, and any offer is contingent on that compliance.

Desirable: formal training, 40 or more hours, or active progression toward an ASNT Level II NDT certification in Leak Testing; direct experience with specific leak testing methodologies, such as tracer probe, hood technique and helium-filled object techniques; prior experience in fusion-relevant, aerospace or semiconductor cleanroom environments; experience with low or high voltage electrical testing.