Magnet Prototyping Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Magnet Prototyping Engineer

Company: Proxima Fusion

Location: Zürich, Switzerland (with work at Villigen and Böttstein labs)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Research (Fusion Technology)

Date Posted: May 1, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in the advancement of fusion energy technology, focusing on the design, development, and hands-on prototyping of critical magnet components.

• It requires a strong blend of mechanical, electrical, and experimental engineering skills to bring cutting-edge High-Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnets from concept to reality.

• The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking sustainable energy solution, working with a team of highly dedicated professionals.

• Successful candidates will drive iterative design improvements and manufacturing process development for superconducting joints and cables.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job title is "Magnet Prototyping Engineer," this role is deeply embedded within the specialized field of fusion energy research and development, specifically concerning the complex magnet systems required for stellarator-based fusion reactors. The focus is on physical prototyping and hands-on development rather than purely theoretical design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical and electro-mechanical components essential for joint and busbar systems within superconducting magnets.

• Conceptualize, design, and implement early-stage superconducting cable prototypes.

• Lead the hands-on building, assembly, and testing of prototypes, working in close collaboration with workshop technicians.

• Provide crucial support for the manufacturing and integration of components into magnet prototypes and experimental setups.

• Drive design iterations based on rigorous test results, precise measurements, and valuable experimental feedback.

• Contribute significantly to the development of robust manufacturing processes and specialized tooling for efficient joint fabrication.

• Actively participate in experimental activities, including the setup of equipment, precise instrumentation, and diligent data acquisition.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with engineers and technicians across mechanical, electrical, and materials science domains to ensure seamless project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a very hands-on, iterative approach to engineering. The candidate is expected to not only design but also build, test, and refine components, indicating a strong emphasis on practical problem-solving and rapid prototyping within a research and development setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 2-5 years of demonstrable hands-on experience in prototyping, manufacturing, or experimental work.

Required Skills:

• Strong proficiency in CAD tools; CATIA is preferred, but experience with NX, SolidWorks, or Onshape is also highly relevant.

• Good understanding of electrical or electromagnetic systems, including concepts like current flow, resistive losses, and basic circuit behavior.

• Comfort and experience working in a workshop and laboratory environment, including the use of relevant machinery and testing equipment.

• A pragmatic, solution-oriented mindset with a demonstrated ability to quickly adapt and improve designs.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with electromechanical systems, sensors, or instrumentation.

• Familiarity with various manufacturing processes such as machining, assembly, soldering, and welding.

• Previous experience in Research & Development (R&D) or prototype development environments.

• Exposure to thermal, electrical, or materials characterization techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of theoretical knowledge (engineering degree, understanding of electrical systems) and practical, hands-on skills (prototyping, manufacturing, workshop experience). The preference for CATIA suggests a need for sophisticated mechanical design capabilities, while the emphasis on iteration points to an agile R&D environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of projects demonstrating your ability to design, prototype, and test electromechanical or mechanical components.

• Include examples of iterative design improvements driven by testing and experimental feedback, highlighting problem-solving approaches.

• Present case studies of manufacturing process development or tooling design for complex components.

Process Documentation:

• Prepare to discuss your approach to documenting design iterations, test procedures, and manufacturing processes.

• Be ready to explain how you would ensure traceability of design changes and test results.

• Highlight your understanding of quality control measures applied during prototyping and assembly.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an engineering role focused on prototyping and R&D, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the engineering process, problem-solving skills, and tangible outcomes of the candidate's work, especially concerning the iterative nature of prototype development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Generous paid time off and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.

• Contribution to retirement savings plans.

• Potential for stock options or equity in a rapidly growing startup.

• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility often available, especially during experimental phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary for specialized engineering roles in Switzerland is typically high due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. Benefits often include robust health coverage, retirement contributions, and opportunities for professional growth, which are standard for full-time positions in advanced technology companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fusion Energy, Sustainable Energy Technology, Advanced Physics Research.

Company Size: Startup/Growth Stage (Likely <100 employees, based on Ashby data indicating a dynamic and agile environment).

Founded: Proxima Fusion was founded in 2021, positioning it as a relatively young company focused on rapid innovation and development in a nascent but critical industry.

Team Structure:

• The Magnet Prototyping Engineer will be part of a specialized engineering team focused on magnet technology.

• This team likely comprises experts in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, and experimental physics.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, with an emphasis on rigorous testing and analysis to inform design iterations.

• Agile development methodologies are likely employed to facilitate rapid prototyping and quick responses to experimental results.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, bridging the gap between theoretical design, manufacturing, and experimental validation.

Company Website: https://www.proximafusion.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a startup in the highly complex field of fusion energy, Proxima Fusion's culture is expected to be fast-paced, innovative, and collaborative. The emphasis on "doing your life's best work" and "radically transforming technology" suggests a high-performance environment driven by ambitious goals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an individual contributor with significant technical responsibility, likely at a mid-level engineer (2-5 years of experience). It offers a clear path for technical specialization within magnet technology.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will report to a senior engineering manager or lead, with opportunities to influence technical direction within their specific area of expertise. Collaboration will extend across various engineering disciplines.

Operations Impact: The engineer's work directly impacts the feasibility and performance of Proxima Fusion's core technology – the HTS magnets. Successful prototyping and development are critical milestones for the company's progress towards commercial fusion power.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in superconducting magnet design, fabrication, and testing, potentially becoming a subject matter expert.

• Leadership Potential: Progress into roles such as Senior Magnet Engineer, Team Lead, or Engineering Manager as the company scales.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain exposure to advanced physics, materials science, and computational modeling relevant to fusion energy.

• Impactful Contribution: Play a key role in developing a world-changing technology, with opportunities for significant contributions to scientific and engineering breakthroughs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a strong technical growth trajectory within a cutting-edge field. For engineers passionate about deep technical challenges and contributing to a major technological shift, this role provides significant opportunities for skill development and career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role involves significant time spent in laboratory and workshop environments in Villigen and Böttstein, alongside office-based design and analysis work.

Office Location(s): Primary work locations are specified as Villigen and Böttstein, Switzerland, within the broader Zürich region context. These are likely dedicated R&D facilities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be a dynamic mix of hands-on lab/workshop activities and computer-aided design (CAD) and analysis.

• Access to advanced prototyping equipment, specialized testing rigs, and instrumentation will be standard.

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where close interaction with fellow engineers, technicians, and potentially physicists is routine.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but the nature of R&D and experimental work may require occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines or capitalize on experimental windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "hands-on prototyping, manufacturing, and testing at our labs" indicates a work environment that is not solely desk-bound. Candidates should be comfortable with a practical, lab-centric setup.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Recruiter Interview (30-60 min): Initial screening to assess general fit, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• Technical Screening (30 min): A focused discussion on core technical skills, engineering principles, and relevant experience.

• Technical Panel (2x60 min): In-depth technical discussions with multiple engineers, likely involving problem-solving scenarios and deep dives into past projects.

• Practical On-site: This is a critical stage, likely involving a hands-on assessment, a tour of the facilities, and potentially a practical engineering challenge or simulation.

• CEO Call (30 min): Final discussion to assess strategic alignment, cultural fit, and overall enthusiasm for the company's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Iteration: Clearly document how designs evolved based on test results. Use before-and-after examples.

• Highlight Hands-On Work: Include photos or videos of prototypes you've built, assembled, or tested.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, present metrics related to performance improvements, efficiency gains, or successful testing outcomes.

• Detail Your Role: Be specific about your individual contributions within team projects.

• CAD Proficiency: Include examples of complex CAD models you've created, explaining the design rationale.

• Problem-Solving: For each project, articulate the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Fundamentals: Brush up on core mechanical engineering principles, materials science basics, and electrical/electromagnetic concepts relevant to magnets.

• CAD Skills: Be prepared to discuss your CAD workflow and potentially demonstrate proficiency in CATIA or a similar tool.

• Prototyping & Manufacturing: Review common prototyping techniques, assembly methods, and potential manufacturing challenges for complex components.

• Experimental Design: Think about how you would approach designing tests for joints and cables, including instrumentation and data acquisition.

• Communication: Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The multi-stage interview process, culminating in a practical on-site assessment, underscores the hands-on nature of this role. A well-prepared portfolio that vividly illustrates practical engineering skills and problem-solving capabilities will be essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: CATIA (preferred), NX, SolidWorks, Onshape. Proficiency in at least one is essential for mechanical design and component development.

• Prototyping Equipment: Access to and experience with various workshop machinery (e.g., CNC machines, lathes, mills), 3D printers, and assembly tools.

• Testing & Measurement Equipment: Oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, thermal cameras, strain gauges, and specialized cryogenic or high-current test setups.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data acquisition systems for experimental setups.

• Spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) for data analysis and preliminary reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this engineering role, but familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana) may be beneficial for tracking progress.

• Version control systems (e.g., Git) for managing design files or simulation code could be relevant if the role involves scripting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design tools (CAD) and physical engineering equipment (prototyping machines, test instruments). This reinforces the hands-on, experimental nature of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to push the boundaries of fusion technology and develop novel solutions for magnet systems.

• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality engineering, rigorous testing, and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of work.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and mutual support across diverse engineering disciplines.

• Impact: A shared passion for contributing to a sustainable energy future and making a significant positive impact on the world.

• Pragmatism: A results-oriented approach, focusing on practical solutions and iterative development to overcome complex challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where engineers work closely together, sharing knowledge and supporting each other's projects.

• Frequent cross-functional meetings and informal discussions are likely to ensure alignment between design, manufacturing, and experimental teams.

• A culture of constructive feedback and shared problem-solving is essential for rapid iteration and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated mission and values ("doing your life’s best work," "radically transforming technology") suggest a culture that values ambition, dedication, and a collaborative spirit among highly skilled individuals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Working with cutting-edge HTS magnet technology presents significant engineering challenges related to materials, thermal management, and high-current electrical systems.

• Rapid Iteration: The need to rapidly prototype and test designs in an R&D environment requires adaptability and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

• Cross-Disciplinary Integration: Effectively bridging the gap between mechanical design, electrical systems, and experimental validation requires strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Scaling Challenges: As a growing startup, processes may still be evolving, requiring flexibility and a willingness to contribute to process development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastery of Advanced Technologies: Gain deep expertise in HTS magnet technology, fusion energy principles, and advanced prototyping techniques.

• Industry Exposure: Work alongside leading experts in the fusion industry and contribute to a groundbreaking technological advancement.

• Skill Diversification: Develop skills in areas such as advanced CAD, experimental design, data analysis, and potentially materials science.

• Career Advancement: Potential to grow into senior technical roles or leadership positions as the company expands its magnet program.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for engineers who thrive on solving complex technical problems and are eager to contribute to a pioneering field. The challenges are significant but directly linked to substantial growth and learning opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your process for designing a new electromechanical component from concept to prototype. How do you incorporate feedback from testing?"

• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you faced a significant technical challenge during prototyping. What was the problem, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?"

• Collaboration: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration when working with engineers from different disciplines (e.g., mechanical vs. electrical)?"

• Tooling/Manufacturing: "What is your experience with developing manufacturing processes or tooling for complex components? Can you provide an example?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Proxima Fusion's mission to develop fusion energy?"

• "How do you see your skills contributing to the development of our HTS magnet program?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you handle working in a fast-paced R&D setting."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Iteration: For each project, clearly show the initial design, the test results or issues encountered, and the subsequent improved design.

• Highlight Hands-On Contribution: Use visuals (photos/diagrams) of physical components you've assembled or tested.

• Quantify Results: Present any measurable improvements in performance, efficiency, or reliability achieved through your design work.

• Tell a Story: Frame your projects as narratives—problem, approach, solution, outcome—to make them engaging and memorable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the engineering process, hands-on practical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a cutting-edge R&D environment. The portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight specific experience in prototyping, manufacturing, CAD (especially CATIA or similar), and electromechanical systems. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate a selection of projects that best demonstrate your hands-on skills, design iteration process, and problem-solving capabilities relevant to magnet components.

• Research Proxima Fusion: Understand their mission, technology (stellarators, HTS magnets), and recent developments to articulate your motivation and fit during interviews.

• Practice technical explanations: Be ready to clearly articulate complex engineering concepts and your contributions to past projects.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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