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Principal Applied Plasma Data Scientist

HelionEverett, WAScience
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Salary
$230K - $270K USD
Job type
Full-time
Posted
18 Aug 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Role Overview

The Principal Applied Plasma Data Scientist position at Helion is an onsite opportunity located in Everett, Washington, focusing on advanced physics-grounded machine learning for fusion research. This role suits an experienced researcher with a strong background in scientific machine learning who wants to help build the world's first fusion power plant.

Key Responsibilities

Build and test machine learning frameworks specifically for FRC plasma dynamics utilizing hybrid systems, physics-informed neural networks, surrogate modeling, or differentiable physics.
Combine machine learning models with diagnostic pipelines and simulation tools to create validation workflows.
Recreate experimental plasma states inside modeling workflows to help interpret magnetic diffusion, circuit responses, and diagnostic data.
Write analysis scripts to parse model outputs, post-process data, and visualize the relationships between model predictions and real-world experimental findings.
Work alongside pulsed-power, transient-magnetics, and plasma-physics specialists to improve the accuracy and relevance of modeling frameworks.
Present findings and technical visualizations clearly to research stakeholders.

Requirements

Earned PhD in Applied Math, Computational Science, Machine Learning, Physics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline focusing on physics-grounded modeling.
Ten or more years of relevant research-lab or industry experience applying machine learning within scientific, simulation-driven, or experimental R&D settings.
Demonstrated expertise using physics-constrained or physics-informed machine learning techniques like reduced-order models, scientific machine learning, surrogate modeling, or differentiable physics.
Background in successfully linking machine learning models with experimental diagnostics, scientific computing workflows, or simulation software.
Comfortable modeling plasma-dynamics, circuit coupling, or magnetic diffusion within electromagnetics or pulsed-power systems.

Skills and Tools

Proficiency in scripting languages used for model analysis, data parsing, and visualization, such as Python or MATLAB.
Familiarity with HPC environments or Fortran.
Expertise in physics-informed neural networks, surrogate modeling, and differentiable physics.

Salary and Benefits

Annual salary range between $230,000 and $270,000.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees and families.
Generous time off including 31 total days of PTO (21 vacation days and 10 sick days), 10 paid holidays, and a company-wide winter break.
Up to 5% employer-matched 401(k) plan.
Life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
Paid parental leave and family support of up to 16 weeks.
Annual wellness stipend.

About the Company

Helion is a fusion power company headquartered in Everett, Washington, dedicated to creating unlimited clean electricity and shaping the future of global energy. Founded in 2013, the organization has secured $1.5 billion in funding from prominent investors and is actively progressing toward its commercial fusion power plant, Orion, following milestones achieved by its Polaris prototype.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official Helion careers page to submit an application for this role.

Skills and tech stack

Python

Questions candidates ask

What is the salary for the Principal Applied Plasma Data Scientist role?

The salary for this position ranges from $230,000 to $270,000 per year.

Where is the job located?

The role is located onsite at the company office in Everett, Washington.

What level of experience is required?

Candidates must have 10+ years of industry or research-lab experience applying machine learning in experimental, simulation-driven, or scientific R&D environments, along with a relevant PhD.

What benefits are included with employment?

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans, 31 days of PTO, 10 paid holidays plus a winter break, up to a 5% 401(k) match, life and disability insurance, paid parental leave up to 16 weeks, and an annual wellness stipend.

How do I apply for this position?

You can apply by visiting the official Helion careers website.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Helion careers page.

Apply on company site