Scientist, Operator

Job Summary General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Scientist, Operator to join our DIII-D (National Fusion Facility) program in San Diego, CA. Under general supervision and with limited review, this position is responsible for overseeing the operation of a state of the art experimental fusion device, the DIII-D Tokamak, which is the largest operating fusion device in the U.S.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Monitors and supervises the operation of the DIII-D Tokamak, which consists of a complex set of systems involving high power, high vacuum, intense lasers, high power RF, high energy particle beams, cryogenic systems, plasma, and radiation producing equipment.
• Leads and assists with the development, design, and operation of monitoring and control systems, diagnostic systems, or other electrical and mechanical systems. This includes the design and implementation of both software and hardware systems.
• Work with designers, engineers and technicians. May direct the activities of less experienced professional staff.
• Sets up and performs diagnostic tests.
• Develops appropriate documentation of studies and projects and makes technical presentations as required.
• Troubleshoots, analyzes, and repairs systems in assigned areas.
• Works in a radiation environment.
• Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.



Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree, Masters degree or PhD in a scientific or related technical field and progressively complex scientific experience as follows; six or more years experience with a Bachelors degree, four or more years experience with a Masters degree, and two or more with a PhD. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Must have experience in least one of the following areas: electronics, control systems, high voltage or high power systems, mechanical systems, vacuum systems, diagnostic development, experimental test equipment, or industrial automation.
• Must have capability to understand basic electrical high power circuits.
• Must possess the ability to:
  • Understand new concepts quickly;
  • Apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment;
  • Organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and,
  • Determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
• Must have:
  • An understanding of scientific concepts, principles, codes, and theory;
  • Experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts;
  • A knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule and extended hours as required.
• Must have the ability to become a member of the DIII-D Emergency Response Team with training in basic first aid, fire extinguisher use, CPR, SCBA, and emergency procedures.
• Candidate must have good safety awareness, be attentive to and follow safety procedures, be able to develop safety procedures, and be capable of analyzing and responding to potential incidents and events.
• Good communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in plasma physics is preferred.
• Experience operating large complex facilities is preferred.
• Familiarity designing and building diagnostic equipment is preferred.
• Knowledge of the IDL, Python, or C programming languages is preferred.
• SQL computer database experience is preferred.
• Familiarity with PLC programming, and computer hardware and networking is preferred.
• Experience with computer programs, such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint applications is preferred.
• Experience in radiation physics and safety is preferred.

Salary:$105,890 - $189,545