Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
Inertia
Design
Livermore, CA, USA
USD 150k-180k / year
Posted on Mar 13, 2026
Location
Livermore
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
On-site
Department
Design and Engineering
Overview:
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer within the laser division, to play a key role in developing the next generation of ultra-high energy pulsed laser systems for fusion energy. Typical design projects would include the design and development of solid-state laser hardware and systems, large-aperture opto-mechanical mounts and positioning systems, support structures, vacuum chambers and systems, thermal management systems, and test stands and diagnostics.
Primary Responsibilities:
Gather and develop requirements for systems with stakeholders across all disciplines
Conceptualize system architectures and concepts based on high-level requirements
Lead small teams in the design of precision mechanical and opto-mechanical equipment and systems for IFE facilities
Design mechanical, opto-mechanical, and electro-mechanical equipment and systems
Validate design work with appropriate analysis (static and modal FEA, hand calculations, etc.)
Present at design reviews to science and management stakeholders
Work closely with other disciplines in the design and coordination of activities
Integrate precision opto-mechanical, fluidic, and electrical hardware, designed both in-house and by subcontractors, into large-scale CAD assemblies that include facility BIM data
Perform detailed component materials and finish specifications, manage technical data transfer to suppliers, inspect and qualify hardware following procurement
Assemble prototype hardware; develop and execute test plans for subsystem performance validation
Utilize large-scale CAD assemblies to provide assembly documentation and installation schedules for opto-mechanical and electrical systems
Guide and mentor other engineers
Required Qualifications:
10+ years of experience as a mechanical design engineer
Proven history of delivering novel and innovative solutions to challenging problems
Proficiency with 3D CAD packages; SolidWorks (preferred), CREO, Autodesk Inventor, etc.
Thorough knowledge of drafting, tolerance analysis, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
Demonstrated experience with FEA - Structural, Modal, Random Vibration with empirical validation
Experience with CFD analysis with empirical validation (preferred)
Practical knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, welding) and design for manufacturability (DFM)
Experience specifying components for precision design: linear stages, rotary motors, encoders, optical sensors, pneumatic components, vacuum components, etc.
Full design lifecycle experience including design, procurement, assembly, and test of mechanical systems
Experience with cleanroom procedures, high-voltage, and high-vacuum environments
Experience designing laser systems or optical instruments
Experience with Product Data Management Systems; SolidWorks PDM (preferred)
Applicants should be able to work both autonomously as well as collaboratively to execute tasks in support of various teams within the company
Due to the nature of this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Salary & Benefits:
The base salary range for this role is $150,000 - $180,000 per year; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.
We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!
About Inertia:
Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.