Payroll Title: SRA 1 Department: CNTR ENERGY RESEARCH Hiring Pay Scale $30.12 - $33.56 / Hour Worksite: Campus Appointment Type: Limited Appointment Appointment Percent: 100% Union: RX Contract Total Openings: 1 Work Schedule: 8 hrs/day, Mon. - Fri.

#141978 Plasma Physics Staff Research Associate Filing Deadline: Mon 11/9/2026 Apply Now

UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.

Job posting will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified.

Priority consideration will be given to applications received by 11/09/26.

This is a 100% limited position for 1 year with the possibility of extension or conversion to career status.

DESCRIPTION

Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, the incumbent will assist with pulsed power-driven plasma experiments and will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Rama facility. Incumbent will coordinate with the PI to design and carry out experimental research.

They will operate the pulsed power driver, relevant safety system and associated diagnostics, primarily pertaining to the diagnosis of wire load plasmas for high energy density physics research. The incumbent will carry out data processing and presentation of results to the PIs research team.

The incumbent may occasionally also visit and assist in experiments on pulsed power experiments at Cornell University, the University of Michigan or Sandia National Laboratories

QUALIFICATIONS

Theoretical knowledge of Mechanical Engineering or Physics as obtained through a related degree and one year of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience performing data processing and analysis.

Strong computer skills including experience for data and image analysis (python, ImageJ, Origin or similar).

Demonstrated ability to use cameras, optics, and lasers.

Demonstrated capability in the exercise of good experimental procedures.

Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills to maintain high-quality communication with PI and other lab members.

Demonstrated ability to work safely with high voltage equipment and pulsed power systems.

Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

Demonstrated experience working in an academic research environment.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

Must be willing and able to travel.

Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

This is a 100% limited position for 1 year with the possibility of extension or conversion to career status.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $62,891 - $75,022 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $30.12 - $35.93

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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