Calling the bold.

Calling the bold.

Uncork-backed companies are hiring explorers, builders, and operators ready to help chart new territory.

Uncork-backed companies are hiring explorers, builders, and operators ready to help chart new territory.

IFE Target Development Engineer/Scientist

Inertia

Inertia

Livermore, CA, USA
Posted on Mar 6, 2026

Location

Livermore

Employment Type

Full time

Location Type

On-site

Department

Design and Engineering

Overview:

We are seeking Scientists and Engineers to advance target fabrication capabilities for Inertia’s fusion program. This position involves developing and operating equipment and processes for precision target components such as capsules, hohlraums, foams, and films. Development and operations of production equipment for target assembly, bonding, alignment and inspection will also be involved.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Develop and operate equipment and processes for fabrication of IFE target components.

  • Develop and operate equipment, processes, tooling and fixtures for precision IFE target fabrication and assembly.

  • Inspect, characterize, and assess quality of target components and targets.

  • Collaborate with materials scientists and process engineers to improve target quality and throughput.

  • Support design reviews, and presentations on equipment and processes under development

  • Interface with vendors, external partners, and internal teams to qualify materials and components.

  • Support the design development of other IFE power plant components

Qualifications:

Required:

  • BS or MS in Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field.

  • Experience with fabrication of ICF or IFE target components or other precision components.

  • CAD and design skills.

  • Hands-on experimental and prototyping experience.

Preferred:

  • Laboratory experience with organic, polymer, and lithium containing chemicals

  • Background in fusion target manufacturing, or precision medical or aerospace hardware assembly.

  • Knowledge of automation, robotics, or metrology systems.

Salary & Benefits:

  • The base salary range for this role is $128,000 - 141,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.

  • We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!

About Inertia:

Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.