Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. The founders include two highly renowned scientists and a long-time entrepreneur and founder of several successful startups. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.
We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to define, design, and lead the development and integration of the control system for our fusion research facility in Germany. This position combines deep technical responsibility with team and project leadership across electrical, mechanical, and laser systems. You will be part of a collaborative engineering and scientific team dedicated to delivering high-performance, safety-critical control systems.

• Define and oversee the control system design for a complex laser-based fusion research facility, ensuring scalability and performance.
• Collaborate across engineering disciplines—including laser, target, diagnostics, facility, mechanical, electrical, software, and physics teams—to develop an integrated control platform.
• Design robust, intuitive user interface systems and integrate third-party hardware/software to enable seamless data flow and interoperability.
• Lead the development of safety-related controls in accordance with IEC and ISO standards, collaborating on interlocks, e-stops, and SIL-rated loops.
• Ensure all control systems comply with German and broader European electrical safety and regulatory requirements.
• Lead FAT, SAT, and commissioning efforts, while developing startup plans and long-term lifecycle support strategies for calibration and maintenance.
• Provide mentorship to internal engineers and oversight of vendors/suppliers involved in control systems design and implementation.