Materials Test Operator - Contract

About Commonwealth Fusion Systems: Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And we're working with policymakers, suppliers, and many others to build the energy industry of the future. We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised $4 billion of capital, making us the largest and leading fusion company in the world. Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team. If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you. Join the power movement as a Contract Materials Test Operator The materials test operator position entails materials testing, communication between multiple internal stakeholders, detailed data reporting, equipment maintenance and upkeep, production line support, and continuous improvement. Current and future laboratory equipment includes but is not limited to: mechanical and electrochemical, metallographic specimen polishing and preparation, visible light and electron microscopy, high temperature heat treatments, static and dynamic mechanical testing in a wide range of environments (including cryogenic and high temperature), magnetic property evaluation, and other thermophysical tests. What you'll do: Prepare test specimens and performs laboratory experimentsContinuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratorySupport inventory management on consumable/spare parts and report up for purchasingExecution of materials test Jira tickets and QBench orders in accordance with the standard operating proceduresOperating industry standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methodsConducting materials testing independently under the input from a materials test engineer including data management and reportingMechanical testing includes destructive testing (Tensile, Compression, Flexural, Shear, Peel, and Fatigue) using Instron Universal Testing Machines, and other custom testing in extreme environments over a range of temperaturesMaterials characterization includes metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy, hardness testing, magnetic and electrical testingSupport in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, including equipment calibration and alignment for effective usageAbility and desire to work on multiple, different assignmentsFlexibility to adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedulesMaintain rigorous documentation with attention to detail, ensuring data integrity and effective troubleshooting throughout the test lifecycleComfortable with performing repeated tests while still maintaining test qualityPerform other related job duties as assigned by management What we're looking for: High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higherMinimum 2 years experience with with basic materials prep and testing toolsMinimum 2 years experience with a variety of technical support skills including but not limited to mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiringParticipate in and promote CFS’ safety procedures and policiesDesire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changesMeticulous attention to detailAbility to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff and othersAbility to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasksStrong problem solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativityStrong written and oral communications skills & techniquesEffective root cause analysis and problem-solving skillsProficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPointAbility to work independently and in a team environmentAbility to comply, interpret and support procedures, work rules, and protocols Bonus points for: Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software is a plusTesting to industry or international standards (e.g. ASTM D638, ASTM E8, ISO)Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid HeliumExperience with strain-gage applicationExperience using electrical test devicesExperience with metallographic sample preparationand analysisExperience with hazardous chemical use and managementExperience with vacuum systemsExperience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etcAbility to follow engineering procedures andinstructionsUnderstands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes Must-have requirements: Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbsPerform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of timeDedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, metallographic Etchants and cryogenicsWillingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges. We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law. This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws. This is a contract position.