Mechanical Engineer

About Focused Energy

At Focused Energy, we are pioneering laser-driven nuclear fusion, and unlocking powerful new technologies along the way. One of these is our Laser-Driven Radiation Source (LDRS): a compact, high-precision neutron system based on advanced laser–plasma physics. Designed to transform non-destructive testing, LDRS has far-reaching applications across energy, security, and infrastructure. From enabling safe long-term storage of nuclear waste to enhancing border protection and supporting the energy transition, this spin-off technology not only accelerates our path to fusion power but also tackles some of the most urgent technical and societal challenges of our time. Become a part of bringing advanced laser-driven radiation technologies to market readiness! As our Mechanical Engineer you will be a core member of our product development team, driving the design, integration, and prototyping of critical hardware systems. You will collaborate closely across disciplines to deliver robust, scalable mechanical solutions that meet technical, regulatory, and operational demands.

What you’ll do

• Design, develop, and refine mechanical components and assemblies with a strong focus on manufacturability, robustness, and scalability.

• Lead mechanical prototyping efforts, coordinating fabrication, assembly, and testing with internal teams and external partners.

• Develop innovative mechanical solutions for mechano-optical modules, optimizing functionality while managing costs.

• Conduct tolerance analysis, structural and thermal simulations (FEA), and material assessments for radiation and vacuum environments.

• Ensure all designs comply with industry standards, safety regulations, radiation shielding protocols, and cleanroom requirements.

• Produce detailed product documentation for manufacturing, procurement, testing, and maintenance.

• Lead and actively participate in technical design reviews, incorporating multidisciplinary feedback to improve designs continuously.

Who you are

• 5+ years of proven experience in mechanical design and development, with a strong emphasis on Design for Manufacture (DFM).

• Solid expertise with CAD software, preferably Autodesk Inventor, and proficiency in tolerance analysis and FEM simulation.

• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and production techniques, ideally with experience in vacuum systems, cleanroom operations, or mechano-optical systems.

• Experience or familiarity with safety and regulatory requirements for radiation environments and relevant shielding protocols.

• Excellent problem-solving skills combined with a sharp attention to detail and the ability to critically evaluate technical designs.

• Proficiency in German and ability to travel to Darmstadt (Hessia, Germany) on a regular basis

Why join us?

• The opportunity to shape the future of a fast-growing startup solving challenges with global relevance.

• Strong personal growth potential with the chance to lead your own projects from early on.

• A dynamic, collaborative team culture with flat hierarchies and short decision paths.

• Daily exchange with top experts in fusion, simulation, and engineering to accelerate your learning.

• Flexibility through hybrid work options and adaptable working hours.

• A competitive salary package aligned with your experience and responsibilities.

What we offer:

• Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery.

• Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career.

• Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers and professionals passionate about solving global challenges.

• Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges and shaping the future of our company.

• Your Success is our Success: We offer a competitive salary and company ownership in the form of stock options, giving you a direct stake in our success and ownership in what we build together.

• Vacation Days: We support your work-life-balance by granting you 30 days of vacation per year.

• Flexibility: We believe work should adapt to your life—not the other way around. That’s why we offer a hybrid setup, giving you the freedom to work from our office while also enjoying the flexibility to work from home when it suits you.

• Snacks and Drinks: Our office fridges are never empty. Enjoy our healthy snacks and drinks. Our Darmstadt office even offers a subsidized canteen with delicious lunch options daily.

• Retirement Plan: If you decide for a private pension plan, we will finance 15% on top of your monthly contributions.

• Equipment: Choose between a state-of-the-art Windows or Apple Laptop. In addition, you will receive a keyboard, mouse and headset so you are fully equipped from day 1.

• Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace.

• Mobility with NAVIT: We partner with NAVIT to support your flexible commuting needs—whether it’s a public transportation ticket, taxi rides or car-sharing you choose what fits your lifestyle.

• Fitness with Wellhub: We care about your health. Get access to a wide range of gyms, fitness studios and wellness services across Europe through our partnership with Wellhub.

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.