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Principal Technical Project Manager

About Commonwealth Fusion Systems: 


Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.


Combining decades of research, top talent and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future. 


We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised over $2 billion in capital – more than any other fusion energy company in the U.S.


Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team. 


If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.


Join the power movement as a Principal Technical Project Manager


We are seeking an exceptional and results-driven Technical Project Manager (TPM) to join our Program Management Office (PMO). The TPM will play a pivotal role in driving complex engineering projects within SPARC, our first-of-a-kind compact fusion machine.  The TPM will be responsible to ensure that a comprehensive plan is established around the engineering, design and construction of complex highly engineered process systems and that the team executes to meet the requirements of that plan.


What you'll do:
  • Drive engineering projects within SPARC from inception to completion
  • Develop comprehensive plans for the engineering, procurement and construction of highly engineered process systems
  • Manage SPARC systems through final design, working with a cross-functional team of engineers, scientists, designers, and analysts
  • Establish project milestones & ensure all deliverables are met while adhering to strict budget and timeline parameters
  • Develop comprehensive project plans, outlining project scope, goals, deliverables, resources, and timeline to meet strategic targets
  • Support resolution of schedule conflicts
  • Track and report SPARC progress
  • Facilitate collaboration between the PMO, system leads and other SPARC project team members to create more efficient project methods, efficient project communication, standards and reporting channels between groups
  • Lead implementation of strategic process improvement plans and act as a catalyst to resolve diverse objectives and competing priorities within the SPARC team
  • Lead a cross-functional team (matrix) composed of engineers, designers, analysts, procurement specialists, and other stakeholders to meet the requirements of the execution plan
  • Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture to drive project execution and achieve collective goals
  • Manage cost & schedule along with driving critical risk-based decisions throughout the project life cycle
  • Monitor project timelines rigorously, identifying potential delays, devising, and implementing mitigation strategies to maintain project schedule
  • Keep stakeholders informed about project progress through regular updates and reporting
  • Lead the active management of risks throughout the project lifecycle: Identify risks, develop & drive mitigation plans, and keeping stakeholders informed about progress of risks through regular updates & risk reporting


What we’re looking for:
  • Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field
  • Proven track record of managing complex engineering projects with excellent project management skills, exceptional leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of technical project lifecycles.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience in engineering and project management working with a wide range of engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical and other areas
  • Possess a thorough understanding of project management, planning, and scheduling methods and techniques
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels
  • Exceptional planning, organizational, and time management skills
  • Thorough understanding of engineering product life-cycle with experience in driving products through phase-gate design reviews such as CDR, PDR, FDR or equivalent
  • Experience working with Jira, Confluence
  • Experience with scheduling tools such as MS Project, P6 or equivalent


Bonus points:
  • Previous work experience in new product introduction/delivery programs for high tech components or assemblies
  • Experienced in the vendor management of highly engineered complex systems


Essential Requirements:
  • Willingness to travel when required or work required nights/weekends/on-call
  • Perform activities such as typing, stooping, climbing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
  • Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics


$150,000 - $250,000 a year
Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefitsThe actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Benefits include:
•  Competitive compensation with equity
•  12.5 Company-wide Holidays
•  Flexible vacation days
•  10 sick days
•  Generous parental leave policy
•  Health, dental, and vision insurance
•  401(k) with employer matching
•  Professional growth opportunities
•  Team-building activities

#LI-Onsite


At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.


We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.

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What You Should Know About Principal Technical Project Manager, Commonwealth Fusion Systems

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is looking for a passionate and experienced Principal Technical Project Manager to join our dynamic team in Devens, MA, dedicated to revolutionizing the energy industry through fusion power. This role isn't just about managing projects; it's about leading groundbreaking engineering initiatives for our SPARC fusion machine. You'll be hands-on, forging comprehensive plans that drive projects from inception to completion, ensuring that all phases—engineering, design, and construction—are expertly executed. Collaborating with a diverse group of engineers, scientists, and analysts, you'll establish project milestones, keep stakeholders informed, and foster a high-performance team culture. Your expertise in managing complex engineering projects will guide the team as we navigate challenges and celebrate successes together. With a competitive salary range of $150,000 to $250,000, plus equity and comprehensive benefits, your contributions to our mission can have a transformative impact on future energy solutions. If you're a strategic thinker with excellent project management skills and a drive to make a difference, we can't wait to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Technical Project Manager Role at Commonwealth Fusion Systems
What are the responsibilities of the Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems?

The Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems is responsible for driving engineering projects within the SPARC initiative, from development through the engineering and construction phases. This includes creating comprehensive project plans, managing cross-functional teams, ensuring project milestones are met, and facilitating communication and collaboration across various groups to ensure efficient execution.

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What qualifications are required for the Principal Technical Project Manager position at Commonwealth Fusion Systems?

Ideal candidates for the Principal Technical Project Manager role at Commonwealth Fusion Systems should possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least 8 years of relevant experience in engineering and project management. A strong understanding of technical project lifecycles, along with excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills, is essential for successful candidates.

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What is the salary range for the Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems?

The salary range for the Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems is between $150,000 and $250,000 annually. This range is influenced by the candidate's qualifications, experience, and location, and also includes equity and benefits as part of the compensation package.

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What tools and software should the Principal Technical Project Manager be familiar with at Commonwealth Fusion Systems?

Candidates for the Principal Technical Project Manager position at Commonwealth Fusion Systems should have experience with project management and scheduling tools such as Jira, Confluence, Microsoft Project, and Primavera P6. Familiarity with these tools will aid in creating and tracking project plans effectively.

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What kind of team environment can be expected as a Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems?

As a Principal Technical Project Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, you'll be part of a collaborative and high-performance team culture. You will work alongside engineers, designers, and analysts to tackle complex challenges, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone contributes to achieving shared goals.

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Common Interview Questions for Principal Technical Project Manager
Can you describe your experience with managing complex engineering projects?

In answering this question, detail your specific roles in past projects, your approach to project management, and highlight any successful outcomes, particularly those that involved cross-functional teams. Emphasize how your experience aligns with the responsibilities required for the Principal Technical Project Manager role at Commonwealth Fusion Systems.

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How do you prioritize tasks in a project with competing deadlines?

Share your methods for effective prioritization. Discuss tools you use for tracking progress and how you balance stakeholder expectations with project timelines. Providing an example of a situation where you successfully managed competing deadlines will strengthen your answer.

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What strategies do you implement to facilitate cross-functional team collaboration?

Explain your communication strategies and any tools or practices you employ to enhance team collaboration. Discuss how you cultivate a team culture that encourages open communication and sharing of ideas, which is particularly relevant for a role at Commonwealth Fusion Systems.

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How do you handle project risks and what is your process for risk management?

Describe your approach to risk assessment and mitigation in project management. Mention any frameworks or tools you use, and illustrate your answer with an example where you effectively managed a significant project risk.

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What is your experience with phase-gate design reviews?

Discuss your familiarity with phase-gate design reviews like CDR (Critical Design Review), PDR (Preliminary Design Review), and FDR (Final Design Review). Provide examples of how you managed these processes and their outcomes on your projects.

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How do you ensure project milestones are met within budget constraints?

Highlight your project management techniques for tracking budgets and timelines. Discuss how you proactively address potential delays and communicate with stakeholders to maintain alignment with financial and deadline expectations.

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Can you provide an example of a successful project you led from start to finish?

Select a specific project and outline your role, the challenges you faced, and how you achieved success. This could include achieving project deliverables on time, within budget, and receiving positive stakeholder feedback. This will demonstrate your capabilities as a Principal Technical Project Manager.

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What methodologies do you follow for project management?

Discuss the methodologies you prefer, such as Agile or Waterfall, and explain why they work best for you. Relate these methodologies to the complexities of engineering projects at Commonwealth Fusion Systems for relevance.

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What tools do you use for project planning and why are they effective?

Share the project management tools you've used, detailing how each has contributed to your success in planning and executing projects. Mention tools like MS Project or Jira, and your reasoning for choosing specific tools based on project needs at Commonwealth Fusion Systems.

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How do you keep stakeholders informed throughout a project?

Illustrate your communication strategy with stakeholders, including methods for providing updates and reports. Discuss how you customize communication approaches based on stakeholder preferences and the nature of the project, ensuring all parties remain informed and engaged.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 12, 2025

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