Plasma Control Team Lead

Tokamak Energy; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000

Job description

Working arrangements

Please note this role does offer hybrid working, our model sets out a minimum 60% onsite / 40% home working split.

Overview

As Tokamak Energy continues to evolve, the way we work and structure our business needs to align to our strategy and business priorities. Following our exciting $52 million upgrade programme for our ST40 spherical tokamak in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, we have an exciting new opportunity to lead plasma control and a dedicated team set within the Diagnostics, Data and Control Department.

The Plasma Control Team plays a critical role in delivering key programmes and projects of strategic importance to Tokamak Energy. Led by the Team Lead, the team is responsible for the development, maintenance, and operation of the Plasma Control System and related tools for Tokamak Energy's flagship tokamak, ST40. In addition, the team is tasked with developing advanced plasma control solutions for both current and future fusion devices. Reporting to the Diagnostics, Data and Control Department Head, your responsibilities will encompass technical leadership for plasma control and plasma operations in addition to the safety, well-being, growth, and performance of your team.

In this role, you will

• Provide technical leadership and expertise in tokamak plasma control systems to support existing programmes, including ST40 and the Fusion Pilot Plant programme, while identifying and securing new opportunities.
• Develop and leverage external relationships, creating impactful opportunities in plasma control and related fields.
• Define and execute the technical strategy aligned to plasma control, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop a plasma control ecosystem to innovate beyond Tokamak Energy's current capabilities.
• Lead the delivery of high-quality software across the Plasma Control team's various projects.
• Be responsible for the safety, well-being, growth, and performance of all Plasma Control team members.
• Effectively manage resource allocation according to agreed priorities to support project requirements.
• Develop team skills, capabilities, and tools to support the business strategy.
• Be an escalation point and support for people and team on work-related issues.
• Lead environment, health, and safety initiatives for the team and area owner for owned labs.

Requirements and attributes we value

• Proven expertise in tokamak plasma control systems or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience in designing, installing, commissioning, and operating scientific software within a tokamak environment.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong networks within the plasma control and fusion research sectors.
• Ability to influence key decision-makers and stakeholders.
• Proven track record in successfully delivering complex projects.
• Experience in applying software development best practices.
• Outstanding problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to effectively manage a multi-disciplinary team.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage and motivate a team.
• Delivery focused with the ability to understand customer needs.
• Qualified to at least degree level or equivalent within a relevant technical discipline.
• Fluency in MATLAB/Simulink.
• Experience in developing and operating real-time systems.
• An understanding of tokamaks and plasma control.
• Track record of scientific publications.
• Commercially savvy.

Benefits

• Salary dependent on skills and experience.
• 28 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Eligible for discretionary performance-related bonus.
• Share options scheme.
• Pension scheme.
• Financial benefits including group life insurance and health cash plan.
• Investment in training and development to support career progression.
• Opportunity to work on and contribute to world class innovation.

Hazard-specific / Safety-critical duties

This job includes the following hazards or safety-critical activities:

• Work in hot or cold environments.
• Driving on Company business.
• Work with cryogenic fluids.
• Working with high magnetic fields.
• Working with hazardous materials.
• Operating heavy equipment.
• Travel outside of Europe or North America on company business.

About Us

Tokamak Energy is a leading global commercial fusion energy company based near Oxford, UK. We believe in fusion energy as a limitless, safe, clean, low-cost energy source that can help reduce climate change. Founded in 2009, we employ a growing team of over 250 people with world-leading scientific, engineering, industrial, and commercial capabilities. Join us in striving to provide a solution to one of humanity's greatest challenges: clean and sustainable energy for all.

Important information

Please note that any personal data submitted to Tokamak Energy will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation. If you do not meet all the listed criteria for this position, we still welcome your application. Entry into employment and progression will be determined only by personal merit. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.