Tooling and Rigging Engineer

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.

About The Role Job Overview:

The Tooling and Rigging Engineer is responsible for overseeing designing, reviewing, building or procuring tooling and rigging which enables production and installation of our fusion system in multiple locations. You will work to build and optimize processes and enable the production employees, engineers and scientists across the organization as they bring our demonstration system online.

Responsibilities:

- Create CAD designs and models for tooling and applicable industrial specifications as required.

- Plan and execute the safe rigging, lifting, and positioning of large assemblies, subassemblies, and equipment.

- Design, source, or modify custom lifting tools, fixtures, jigs, and assembly aids for use in manufacturing and installation.

- Conduct load calculations and lifting studies to ensure safe execution of rigging operations.

- Select and maintain appropriate rigging equipment (e.g., slings, spreader bars, cranes, hoists, gantries).

- Collaborate with mechanical and manufacturing engineers to develop ergonomic and production-friendly assembly tooling for production processes.

- Develop and document plans, procedures, and training materials for tool use.

- Ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety protocols related to lifting and material handling.

- Drive on-schedule and and on budget system builds, installations, and commissioning operations across the factory.

- Manage third-party rigging vendors or subcontractors when needed.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field; equivalent practical experience considered.

- 5+ years experience in rigging, tooling design, or industrial equipment handling—preferably in a production, aerospace, automotive, or heavy equipment environment.

- Familiarity with the design and build of steel structures utilizing AWS D1.1

- Deep knowledge of rigging equipment, lifting techniques, load path analysis, and safety standards (e.g., ASME B30 series, OSHA 1926).

- Hands-on experience designing and fabricating mechanical tooling and lifting fixtures.

- Strong understanding of GD&T, CAD, and basic FEA preferred.

- Ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment, independently and collaboratively.

- Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.

Preferred but not required:

- Experience working in a startup

- Experience working in industries such as: fusion, energy, aerospace, automotive or manufacturing

- Professional rigging certifications (e.g., NCCCO Rigger Level I/II).

- Welding or fabrication background.

- Familiarity with cranes, forklifts, and overhead hoist systems.

Benefits:

- Industry-competitive salary

- Equity plan

- 6% employer 401k matching

- Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)

- 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.

Compensation Range: $153K - $218K