Summer 2026 Internship - Optical Engineering, Target Area
Pacific Fusion
About Pacific Fusion
Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy.
We are rapidly designing and building a pulsed magnetic fusion system to achieve net facility gain (more fusion energy output than stored energy input). In parallel, we are developing the key components required to build affordable fusion systems.
Our plans are ambitious. We have raised over $900M so far from incredible investors, resourcing us to deliver on these plans. We are bringing together the best scientists, engineers, and operators from the fusion community, hard tech industry, and other sectors. We are united by a shared sense of urgency to provide clean power for the world, particularly managing climate change while meeting growing global energy demand. You can read more about us in this letter from our founders.
Why This Role Matters
Pacific Fusion is seeking an exceptional Optical Engineering Intern - Target Area Engineering to join our dynamic team and create the path to commercial fusion energy. In your role as an optical engineering intern, you will be responsible for performing analysis and testing of optical systems. Our intention is for interns to gain experience solving rigorous, deeply technical engineering and scientific challenges. All of our intern projects are high priority and value-added efforts that directly contribute to the successful development of our fusion system.
What You Bring
- MS or PhD candidate in optical science and engineering, or a related field
- Strong foundation in optical engineering fundamentals and first principles
- Working knowledge of lasers, optical components (mirrors, lenses, etc.),
coatings, fiber optics, test methods, optical specifications, and stray light - Hands-on experience aligning free space optics and construction of fiber systems
- Exposure to optical analysis software such as Code V, Zemax, FRED, LightTools, or equivalent
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
Additional Requirements:
- Able to work full time, onsite for a minimum of 10 consecutive weeks beginning in June 2026
Bonus Points For
- Experience with polarization analysis or ray tracing
- Stray light or illumination analysis using FRED software
- Familiarity with inertial confinement fusion optical diagnostic techniques such as velocimetry and high speed imaging
- Data analysis skills with Python, Matlab, or similar language
- Experience with CAD and FEA tools (ex. Ansys, Creo, SolidWorks)
- Research at an academic or industry laser, pulsed power, or accelerator facility
- Publications, posters and/or talks on design and analysis of optical systems
- Hands-on optical design and assembly through coursework, clubs, research, or personal projects
- 6+ months of prior full time employment, internship, co-op, or substantial project experience
- GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Curiosity, humility, and a desire to both teach and learn
What We Offer
- Meaningful, resume-building engineering work on real Target Area systems
- A chance to perform detailed and extensive analysis of complex optical systems
- Mentorship from experienced optical engineers and scientists
- Exposure to the high energy density plasma physics and optical diagnostics
- A collaborative, hands-on, learning-driven culture
- An unforgettable summer working on systems that truly matter
Total Compensation & Benefits for Eligible Employees
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Industry-competitive salary
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Equity plan
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6% employer 401k matching
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Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)
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Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Actual base salary offered will be determined by: experience, skills, and work location. This range is for base salary, our total compensation includes equity and benefits. We welcome you to apply even if your expectations are outside our listed range.
Pacific Fusion is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Pacific Fusion is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures and throughout employment. If you need assistance or any accommodation, please let us know.
Pacific Fusion does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies without a fully executed recruitment agreement in place. In the absence of such agreement, Pacific Fusion reserves the right to pursue and hire any candidates without an obligation to pay fees. Agencies are requested not to contact Pacific Fusion hiring managers or employees regarding recruiting services.