Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to lead the technical oversight of fabrication of complex hardware provided for the ITER project. In this role, you will collaborate with international suppliers, oversee manufacturing and testing activities, and ensure that all components meet stringent technical, quality, and performance requirements. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting edge, large scale engineering systems while partnering with global teams to support one of the world’s most ambitious energy research initiatives.

The purpose of this role is to ensure the successful manufacture, testing, and delivery of complex engineered components and assemblies through strong technical leadership and coordinated oversight of external suppliers. This position works closely with international vendors and ITER partners to align requirements, resolve technical issues, and maintain high standards of quality, performance, and compliance throughout the procurement and fabrication process.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Core Duties:

• Lead and support the development and review of PPPL procurement and manufacturing documentation, including Statements of Work, technical specifications, procurement descriptions, and component classifications.
• Develop and/or review Manufacturing Plan, Inspection and Test plan and other fabrication deliverables to define, validate, and maintain requirements for complex optical-electrical-mechanical engineering systems.
• Participate in source selection review of fabrication proposals.
• Lead the technical review of vendor-generated manufacturing documents and drawings for hardware components.
• Participate in Manufacturing Readiness Reviews, Factory Acceptance Tests, Delivery Readiness Reviews, and DOE Independent Project Reviews.
• Manage configuration control of component and documentation deliverables, ensuring traceability and requirements compliance.
• Lead the technical evaluation and dispositioning of supplier fabrication non-conformances, deviation requests, request for waivers, and corrective actions.
• Liaise with ITER Organization for timely resolution of hold points, disposition of non-conformances, deviation requests, and other approvals as necessary.
• Coordinate with matrixed personnel including System Engineering, Control Account Managers, Quality Control and Assurance Officers, Procurement Officers, Team Leads, Design & Analysis Engineers, and Subject Matter Experts within US ITER.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• BS in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 10 years of relevant technical and vendor management experience with the design, manufacturing, and testing of complex hardware and integrated systems.
• Experience in managing complex procurement contracts, including dealing with international suppliers and manufacturers in a multi-cultural environment.
• Advanced knowledge of precision machining, welding, metrology and tolerance stack-up studies.
• Proficiency in reviewing and interpreting engineering drawings, technical specifications, calculations, and test plans.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with optical and plating manufacturing processes, gun drilling, and electronic/electrical systems is considered beneficial.
• Familiarity with U.S. or international design codes and standards such as ASME BP&V and RCC-MRx is a plus.
• Experience in fields such as nuclear, space, aerospace, or oil & gas industries is beneficial.
• Experience working in an international environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Travel about 20-25% of the time to other vendor specific and collaborative ITER Locations primarily Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) (TN) and ITER (France).

Working Conditions:

• On-site.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours

40.00

Eligible for Overtime

No

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

180 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver's License Required

No #LI-CL1

Salary Range

$128,800 to $205,800