hero

Companies you'll love to work for

Prelude Ventures
companies
Jobs

Senior R&D Manufacturing Engineer

Xcimer Energy

Xcimer Energy

Other Engineering
Denver, CO, USA
Posted on Jul 2, 2025
Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!
We are seeking a Senior Research & Development (R&D) Manufacturing Engineer to lead the development and build of a first-of-its-kind prototype laser system designed to enable fusion ignition. In this role, you will translate complex designs into operational hardware, optimize manufacturing processes, and drive hands-on execution. This is a rare opportunity to work on high-impact, cutting-edge technology that could redefine the future of energy. We are looking for our engineers to apply their technical expertise, problem solving skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact the future of energy!

Responsibilities

  • Prototype Build & Manufacturing Execution
  • Translate engineering designs, drawings, and configurations into functional hardware for test, qualification, and fusion applications.
  • Create, interpret, and revise work instructions and routings to guide technicians and support material planning, fabrication, and assembly.
  • Provide hands-on support and technical oversight to interdisciplinary assembly teams on the manufacturing floor.
  • Define and execute rework and repair procedures as needed throughout development cycles.
  • Maintain hardware configuration control and pedigree throughout the build and test lifecycle.
  • Process Optimization & Quality
  • Identify and implement improvements to build sequences, manufacturing methods, and processes to enhance quality, reduce cost, and improve efficiency.
  • Lead and support root cause analysis and corrective actions for non-conformances.
  • Review engineering drawings for manufacturability and provide final approval for release to production.
  • Develop clear, detailed work instructions and procedures for fabrication (e.g., welding, machining), assembly, testing, and integration.
  • Tooling & Equipment Development
  • Design and develop custom ground support equipment (GSE), tooling, and test fixtures for manufacturing and system-level integration.
  • Generate and maintain detailed documentation, including manufacturing procedures, test plans, and quality protocols aligned with industry standards.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with mechanical, optical, laser, electrical, controls, and facilities teams to ensure alignment and progress against project milestones.
  • Participate in design reviews and cross-functional planning to ensure manufacturability and seamless integration of complex systems.
  • Support procurement and logistics activities for tools, hardware, and facilities equipment.
  • Contribute to projects across design, research, testing, and program execution as needed.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Electrical, Chemical, Nuclear, or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Experience: 8+ years of direct manufacturing engineering experience in an R&D or prototyping environment.
  • Proven experience working on complex integrated hardware systems (e.g., aerospace, defense, or fusion energy).
  • Demonstrated ability to develop manufacturing work instructions for fabrication (welding, machining), assembly, testing, and integration.
  • Proficient in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks), scheduling software, and issue tracking systems.
  • Strong skills in quality control, build sequence optimization, and schedule adherence.
  • Experience conducting engineering drawing reviews and providing release approval for manufacturing.
  • Proficient in root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions for non-conformances.
  • Solid understanding of mechanical design and manufacturing principles, including GD&T.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Physically able to support floor activities, including climbing stairs, working in confined spaces, and lifting up to 40 lbs.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Desired

  • Experience with rotational equipment such as pumps, compressors, or blowers.
  • Skilled in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing ERP or MRP systems.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information on “EEO Is the Law,” please see here and here.
Benefits
Benefits Employee Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave (must be employed at time of birth or adoption), short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Paid Time Off: 15 days per year based on weekly scheduled hours, 10 paid sick leave, and 13 company-paid holidays for all regular employees (including part-time), fixed-term, and interns. Equity will be granted to eligible employees. Equity is designed to allow employees to share in company results and success.