Principal Solar Process Engineer (Starlink)
Core
Spearhead state-of-the-art production processes for an internal solar cell production line, providing high efficiency and high-quality solar cells for Starlink satellites and Starship missions.
Role type
Principal Solar Process Engineer (Thin-film PV)
Builds
High-efficiency silicon solar cells (SHJ) for space-based applications
Domain
Aerospace / Photovoltaics / Materials Science
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
PVD process engineering, thin-film solar manufacturing, vacuum systems, plasma physics, sputtering dynamics, defect characterization, DOE, statistical methodologies, cleanroom operations, high-volume scaling (>1GW/year), cost/benefit analysis, project planning
Preferred skills
Master's or Ph.D. in chemistry/chemical engineering/materials science, experience with SHJ/PERC/CIGS, perovskite solar cells, micro-structure analysis tools (SEM, TEM, EDX, SIMS), optical/electrical characterization tools (UV-VIS, I-V), Python/R/SQL, simulation tools (SIMTRA), CapEx justification, fab ramp-ups to multi-GW scales
Technologies
PVD sputtering (DC/RF magnetron), ITO deposition, SHJ cells, PE-CVD, ALD, evaporation tools, XRD, SEM, Hall effect, SIMTRA
Responsibilities
Design, qualify, and optimize PVD sputtering processes for SHJ front and back contacts; Lead process development for new toolsets and materials; Develop experiments to diagnose and correct manufacturing problems; Perform defect characterization and analysis to determine root cause; Develop project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analysis for implementation of new processes or machines; Own and perform machine activation and testing with a small team of engineers and technicians
Seniority
Principal, hands-on IC with strategy & mentorship