Senior Technologist - Materials
Helion is a fusion power company based in Everett, WA, dedicated to building the world's first fusion power plant. Our mission is to enable a future with unlimited clean electricity, providing reliable and affordable energy for everyone. Since our founding in 2013, we have raised $1.5 billion in funding and achieved record-breaking plasma temperatures of 150 million degrees Celsius with our prototype, Polaris. We are now on the path to developing the world's first fusion power plant, Orion.
About the role
You will apply advanced technical expertise to support engineering research, development, and manufacturing through hands-on materials testing, analytical system operation, and precision fabrication. This role involves independently executing complex test workflows, configuring and maintaining equipment, and troubleshooting technical issues to ensure diagnostic readiness and high-quality results. You will collaborate with engineers to translate test requirements into reliable setups, mentor junior Technologists, and communicate findings through clear data analysis and reporting.
Responsibilities
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot materials testing and analytical equipment, including load frames, profilometers, durometers, microscopy systems, and SEM.
- Execute test plans in accordance with ASTM standards or collaborate with engineers to develop custom test methodologies, including sample preparation, fixturing, and data analysis.
- Configure and validate test setups to ensure accurate, repeatable results and alignment with engineering intent.
- Document procedures, calibration activities, and test results with clarity and discipline to support quality and traceability.
- Analyze and communicate data effectively to inform design decisions and improve system performance.
- Lead troubleshooting efforts across mechanical systems, instrumentation, and workflows, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
- Design and fabricate fixtures and components to support testing needs, ensuring precision and reliability.
- Provide mentorship and technical guidance to early career Technologists on equipment operation, fabrication techniques, and safe work practices.
- Develop working knowledge of radiation safety practices, including contamination control, monitoring techniques, and controlled-area workflows.
- Partner with engineers to interpret requirements and translate them into robust testing processes that generate meaningful performance data.
Requirements
- 8+ years of hands-on experience operating mechanical testing systems and analytical instrumentation in a similar technical environment.
- Strong proficiency in materials testing equipment and imaging tools, including mechanical test frames and microscopy systems.
- Extensive hands-on fabrication experience, including fixture design, assembly, and precision measurement.
- Demonstrated ability to execute structured test workflows and produce reliable, high-quality data.
- Experience troubleshooting complex mechanical and instrumentation issues, with the ability to independently identify root causes and drive solutions.
- Strong technical documentation skills, with attention to procedural rigor, calibration standards, and quality control.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with engineers to translate design intent into practical testing solutions.
- Familiarity with controlled, high-risk, or radiological environments is preferred, including adherence to safety and contamination control protocols.
- Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in fast-paced technical environments.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and their families.
- 31 days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days).
- 10 paid holidays, plus a company-wide winter break.
- Up to 5% employer 401(k) match.
- Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.
- Paid parental leave and support (up to 16 weeks).
- Annual wellness stipend.
Pay
Compensation range: $38 - $57 per hour.