Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. The founders include two highly renowned scientists and a long-time entrepreneur and founder of several successful startups. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.
We are looking for an experienced Cryogenic Engineer to design and build high-performance cryogenic systems supporting our fusion target development.
You'll design cryogenics and vacuum systems used for microscale material testing with hydrogen, and develop measurement systems to characterize material properties at cryogenic temperatures. Your work ensures safe, robust, and reproducible systems that underpin our efforts to advance fusion energy.
What you’ll do:
Develop and build cryogenic and vacuum systems; covering cold heads, control systems, thermal insulation, piping, and control of hydrogen and inert gases.
Use CAD and simulation tools to model thermal behavior, ensure cooling performance, and optimize cryogenic system design.
Continuously improve and use experimental setups to assess material behavior at low temperatures, working hands-on with equipment and diagnostics.
Develop safe and compliant gas handling procedures for hydrogen, including risk mitigation, control systems, and adherence to regulatory safety standards with support from relevant experts.
Implement measurement, control, and automation (MSR) systems for cryogenic processes, ensuring precision and reliability.
Collaborate with all Targetry sub-teams to define system requirements and deliver integrated infrastructure.
Lead project workstreams from concept to commissioning; mentoring junior engineers, managing timelines, and ensuring technical excellence.
Who you are:
3–5 years (or equivalent PhD research) designing cryogenic systems, vacuum setups, or gas-handling equipment.
MSc or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
Proficient in CAD (e.g., Inventor), thermal/cryogenic simulation, (e.g.Comsol/Ansys) and vacuum technology.
Familiarity with hydrogen systems, pressure control, leak detection, and gas safety protocols.
Skilled in instrumentation, sensors, and control logic for temperature, pressure, and flow in cold environments.
Strong hands-on skills in building test rigs, debugging systems, and performing low-temperature measurements.
Comfortable working across disciplines, able to coordinate with multiple engineering and science teams.
Germany based, very regular travel to Darmstadt, Hessia, required
What we offer:
Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery.
Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career.
Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers and professionals passionate about solving global challenges.
Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges and shaping the future of our company.
Your Success is our Success: We offer a competitive salary and company ownership in the form of stock options, giving you a direct stake in our success and ownership in what we build together.
Vacation Days: We support your work-life-balance by granting you 30 days of vacation per year.
Flexibility: We believe work should adapt to your life—not the other way around. That’s why we offer a hybrid setup, giving you the freedom to work from our office while also enjoying the flexibility to work from home when it suits you.
Snacks and Drinks: Our office fridges are never empty. Enjoy our healthy snacks and drinks. Our Darmstadt office even offers a subsidized canteen with delicious lunch options daily.
Retirement Plan: If you decide for a private pension plan, we will finance 15% on top of your monthly contributions.
Equipment: Choose between a state-of-the-art Windows or Apple Laptop. In addition, you will receive a keyboard, mouse and headset so you are fully equipped from day 1.
Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace.
Mobility with NAVIT: We partner with NAVIT to support your flexible commuting needs—whether it’s a public transportation ticket, taxi rides or car-sharing you choose what fits your lifestyle.
Fitness with Wellhub: We care about your health. Get access to a wide range of gyms, fitness studios and wellness services across Europe through our partnership with Wellhub.
Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.