
Proxima Fusion is a Max Planck Institute spin-out developing quasi-isodynamic stellarators paired with high-temperature superconducting magnets to build the world's first commercial stellarator fusion power plant, with a UK presence at Culham Campus. They're hiring a Office Manager/Workplace Experience Assistant, based in Oxford (on-site). This operations role sits within the UK's growing fusion energy sector.
Part-Time, 10 hours/week
WHO WE ARE
At Proxima Fusion, we're driven by a bold mission – to redefine the future of sustainable energy. Our unique concept, built upon the groundbreaking W7-X stellarator and the latest advances in technology, paves the way for commercially viable fusion power plants.
What’s more, our work in stellarator optimization, powered by cutting-edge computation and machine learning, is propelling us into uncharted territories of fusion technology. New higher performance design points are unlocked by high temperature superconducting magnets.
To fully grasp this huge opportunity, we’re building a team of extremely dedicated and passionate people who come together driving something extraordinary, radically transforming technology in the world.
WHY JOIN PROXIMA FUSION
You will get to work on some of the most complex tech challenges to bring abundant, safe, clean energy to the world.
You'll get to join and learn from an exceptional selection of accomplished and driven individuals.
Do your life’s best work and enjoy the journey.
Get to show that big things are possible in Europe when you assemble the best talent.
YOUR IMPACT
As our part-time Workplace Assistant, you help create a warm, well-functioning and supportive workplace. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys bringing order, care and calm to a busy environment — whether you’re returning to work after a family break, looking for a stable and predictable part-time role or simply wanting to contribute your experience in a meaningful way.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Be a friendly and reliable first point of contact for visitors and new starters at the Culham office.
Manage the Proxima Culham office’s relationships with Culham site services, vendors and service partners (e.g. cleaning, maintenance) ensuring that Proxima receives high quality provision.
Handle office logistics and maintain and continuously improve the workplace documentation and checklists.
Own key team moments (team events and small rituals) that will build and strengthen the Culham office community.
Assist with workplace projects such as desk reconfigurations, new equipment rollouts, refurbishments and site expansions.
Work closely with the People, IT and Operations teams to ensure the Culham workplace matches how the rest of Proxima operates.
Some occasional travel to our Munich site may be required, but will be planned well in advance.
WHO YOU ARE
Experienced in workplace/office operations, hospitality and/or administrative roles.
You enjoy supporting others and creating a smooth, pleasant environment.
Organized, reliable, hands-on and able to prioritise calmly and efficiently.
A clear and warm communicator, comfortable coordinating with vendors and colleagues; spotting issues early.
You value a role where your structure, maturity and attention to detail make a real difference.
INTERVIEW PROCESS
Recruiter Interview (30-60 min)
2x Technical Screening (30 min)
CEO call (30 min)
At Proxima Fusion, our mission is bold: making limitless clean energy a reality. To get there, we need a high-performing, diverse team that brings different perspectives, challenges assumptions, and builds together with purpose. We know that diversity of thought and experience leads to better ideas, stronger execution, and a more resilient team. We don’t look at how you identify, what you look like, who you choose to worship or what ethnicity you are. We care about what you can bring to the table.
Proxima Fusion was founded in April 2023 as a spin-out from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, bringing together scientists and engineers from IPP, MIT, and X Development. Co-founded by Dr Francesco Sciortino (CEO, PhD in plasma physics from MIT) and Dr Lucio Milanese (COO, PhD in theoretical plasma physics from MIT, formerly McKinsey), the company is developing quasi-isodynamic stellarators combined with high-temperature superconducting magnets to build the world's first commercial stellarator fusion power plant. Proxima has partnered with RWE and the Free State of Bavaria on a planned €2B facility near Munich. The company has raised €200M to date, including a Series A led by Cherry Ventures and Balderton Capital with participation from Lightspeed Venture Partners, Plural, and others. Proxima maintains a UK presence at the Culham Campus and a London-registered entity.