Experimental Plasma Scientist

Avalanche is a Seattle-based start-up developing compact fusion machines for clean, energy-dense power generation at a scale you can hold in your hands. Our unique approach allows us to build, test, break, learn and iterate in days. The modular design is designed to provide power to applications from austere environments to deep sea vehicles and maritime transport to lunar power.
We know we have an incredibly ambitious mission, and that it requires a wide combination of skills, attitude, and grit to make it happen. If you have a passion for abundant energy, and how we can improve life with it, we want to have a chat with you.
Avalanche might be fit for you if: You are self-motivated, energized by problem solving and working closely with hardware. You enjoy hands-on, creative collaboration with a small, tight-knit team you can work with, laugh with, and learn with on a wide variety of topics. You can learn and pivot between priorities when necessary and you can slide the headphones on, focus, and auger deep into a single topic as needed. You thrive in an atmosphere of development, and you are an ardent learner who’s always looking for ways to grow and improve.

About the Role

An Experimental Plasma Scientist is a technical contributor within Avalanche’s Science organization. This role is responsible for advancing plasma physics understanding as it applies directly to Avalanche’s fusion systems, while operating comfortably in an environment of rapid iteration, incomplete information, and evolving requirements.
This is not a purely academic role. You will work closely with experimental systems, diagnostics, simulations, and cross-functional engineering teams to inform design decisions, interpret results, and guide next experiments. You are expected to exercise strong scientific judgment, propose new approaches, and help the team move faster and smarter.

In this role you’re responsible for

• Design, analyze, and interpret plasma experiments in close collaboration with the broader science team and engineers.
• Contribute to rapid test–learn cycles by translating results into clear, actionable recommendations for future experiments.
• Integrate experimental data, simulations, and theory to inform conclusions and guide next steps.
• Help define which questions matter most at a given stage of development and where effort is best focused.
• Work closely with engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, software) to ensure plasma physics considerations are reflected in system design.
• Communicate complex plasma physics concepts clearly to non-plasma specialists across the organization.
• Support product and system trade studies by providing scientifically grounded input.
• Act as a technical mentor to more junior scientists and engineers.
• Share knowledge, review analyses, and contribute to a collaborative and curious science culture.
• Help strengthen team practices around documentation, analysis, and communication.

About you

PhD in plasma physics or a closely related field, or equivalent depth of experience.
Demonstrated ability to approach complex plasma physics problems analytically Comfortable interpreting theory, simulation, and experimental results.
Ability to work with a diverse team as well as operate independently, prioritize work, and make progress in ambiguous environments.
Clear communicator who can explain complex ideas across disciplines.
Comfort iterating quickly and revising assumptions as new data emerges.
Comfortable coding in python or similar languages

Bonus skills & experience

• Direct experience working with fusion relevant plasma diagnostics
• Electrical and/or mechanical technician experience
• Experience assembling experimental, prototype, or low-volume hardware
• Experience with interlocks or other safety systems
• Familiarity with vacuum or ultra-high-vacuum systems
• Experience with cryogenic systems or fluid handling
• Experience working around high-voltage systems
• Experience with pneumatic systems and precision plumbing
• Automation or controls installation experience
• Surface-mount and through-hole soldering experience
• Prior work in fast-paced, hardware-driven R&D environments
• Additional Considerations
• Site — Tukwila, Washington
• Travel — Occasional travel for equipment procurement, integration, or collaboration as needed

Benefits

• Excellent medical, dental and vision benefits: We pay 100% of your premiums
• 10 paid holidays and company-wide December holiday break
• Generous paid vacation and sick time
• Small, tight-knit team with low barriers to action
• Exposure to a wide variety of problems for unparalleled, hands-on professional growth
• Weekly employer provided team meals, a well-stocked kitchen, and employee events on and off-site
• Opportunity for Equity
• Avalanche values people of all races, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, and sexual orientations. We also acknowledge the value that different life experiences bring to our organization. Avalanche is an equal opportunity employer, and you do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. We encourage all individuals who are excited about delivering fusion energy to the world to apply.