First Light Fusion is designing the world’s largest pulsed power machine, Machine 4. This will be a circa 100MJ, multi-megavolt, short pulse machine capable of driving currents in excess of 45 MA in our loads. The primary purpose of this machine will be to electro-magnetically launch high-velocity projectiles, in order to test FLF’s novel ‘projectile fusion’ concept.
The controls and safety group are responsible for developing machine control and safety systems which enable our world-class science programme. Supported by the wider pulsed power and engineering team, the post holder will have the unique opportunity to define, develop and implement the control and safety systems for a world-leading scientific facility.
In this role you will work with the Head of Department and other Group Leasers to oversee the control system design and development at FLF, managing a group of engineers. You will develop the people, tools, and practices to enable the experimental programme on M4 and our other world-class pulsed power drivers.
Responsibilities will include:
- Helping to provide strategic vision for control system and safety system design, development, and realisation at the company
- Line management of a team of engineers
- Hands on programming and control system development
- Providing expert input to multidisciplinary teams
- Provision of support and training to the wider FLF technical team.
Essential
- Degree in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science or similar
- Experience of control and safety systems in a scientific environment (EPICS, for example)
- Demonstrated leadership in software engineering of complex systems
- Expert in modern programming languages and techniques
- Using software testing, debugging tools, and developing automated test harnesses
- A proven track record of successfully planning and executing control system development
- Passion for fusion and for taking a bold approach to a high-risk transformational technology
- Fast and effective problem-solving skills
- Ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Desirable
- Experience solving complex engineering problems in a scientific environment
- Demonstrated ability to deliver to agreed objectives and manage resources using project management techniques
- Previous team/group line management experience