Joblaze summary

The Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion plays a crucial role in integrating mechanical systems for a nuclear fusion demonstration project, ensuring that building systems like HVAC and plumbing are designed and installed correctly. This position requires a strong background in mechanical engineering, with at least seven years of experience in facility design, construction, and operations, particularly in industrial or research settings. Ideal candidates are proactive problem solvers with a collaborative mindset, suited for a fast-paced startup environment focused on innovative energy solutions.

Joblaze insights

Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on Pacific Fusion's careers page October 27, 2026.
Salary band is below the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$130,000).
Starts above 17% of 1256 comparable senior other roles in United States we track (median $144,000 across 185 companies).
fluid systems appears in 0.4% of 2536 comparable senior other roles in United States; Plumbing appears in 0.1% of 2536 comparable senior other roles in United States.

Quick facts

Is the Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer role remote?: It's hybrid — Pacific Fusion expects some on-site time in San Leandro, California.
What's the salary range?: Pacific Fusion lists $116,000–$174,000 for this role.
How much experience is required?: At least 7 years of relevant experience for this Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer role.
Where is the role based?: Pacific Fusion is hiring for this position in San Leandro, California.
What's the tech stack?: Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: HVAC, Plumbing, fire protection, fluid systems, pneumatic systems, vacuum systems.
What seniority level is this role?: Pacific Fusion targets senior candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer role at Pacific Fusion.

From the original posting

About Pacific Fusion

Why This Role Matters

As the Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer, you will be responsible for overseeing the integration of mechanical building system requirements for our nuclear fusion demonstration system. You will work across several teams to develop the building systems which enables us to achieve net facility gain. During construction you will work with design consulting engineering and contractors to ensure a quality installation which can be safely maintained. Following construction, you will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and future upgrades of the building systems. This position is based in San Leandro, California and will require up to 25% travel to our Los Lunas, New Mexico facility for the first 2 years during the design and permitting process. The role will transition to Los Lunas, New Mexico in 2028, after which the expectation is relocation to New Mexico or near 100% presence in New Mexico.

What You'll Do

Develop facility mechanical equipment requirements and guidelines for
building systems including HVAC, fire protection, plumbing, and other
infrastructure systems.
Assist in the design and development of utility systems including
pneumatic, fluid, and vacuum systems.
Interface with engineers, scientists, and technicians to obtain facility
mechanical inputs.
Work with the Infrastructure Design Team to ensure building mechanical
systems are documented and designed appropriately for permitting
design, construction, commissioning, and operations.
Develop building systems commissioning, maintenance, and operations
plans.

What You Bring

Minimum BS, Mechanical Engineering
Minimum 7+ years of experience working in design, construction, facility
operations, and commissioning for industrial, manufacturing, or
research facilities
Experience with HVAC, process piping, fire sprinkler, and plumbing
systems
Hands on experience with industrial, manufacturing, or research facility
commissioning and operations
Strong multidisciplinary program management skills and ability to work
diligently across cross functional teams
Proactive, doer, and self starter mindset
Cooperative and positive attitude which influences your peers to be the
best versions of themselves
Track record of reliability and ability to drive results

Bonus Points For

PE license
Experience working in a startup
Experience working in industries such as: fusion, energy, aerospace,
chemical

Pay Range:

$138,100—$207,100 USD

TOTAL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS FOR ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES

Industry-competitive salary
Equity plan
6% employer 401k matching
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

RECRUITING AGENCIES

Standard company text repeated across Pacific Fusion's postings is omitted here.

Infrastructure Mechanical Engineer