PECVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (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
Senior IC process engineer (PECVD for SHJ solar cells)
Builds
High-efficiency silicon solar cells for space-based applications
Domain
Aerospace / Photovoltaics / Semiconductor manufacturing
Required skills
PECVD process development and optimization, SHJ cell physics and passivation, vacuum systems and plasma physics, gas chemistry and thin-film growth, DOE and statistical analysis, defect characterization, cleanroom operations, project management and cost modeling
Preferred skills
Scaling processes to >1GW/year, experience with SHJ/HJT/TOPCon solar or semiconductor manufacturing, handling pyrophoric/toxic gases, micro-structure and optical/electrical characterization, Python/R/SQL scripting, plasma simulation tools
Technologies
PECVD, SHJ, a-Si:H, c-Si, spectroscopic ellipsometry, FTIR, Raman, Sinton lifetime, PL/EL, SEM, TEM, EDX, SIMS, UV-VIS, I-V, COMSOL, Quokka, AFORS-HET
Responsibilities
Design, qualify, and optimize PECVD processes for SHJ layers; lead process development for new toolsets and materials; own chamber conditioning strategy; partner with equipment engineering on tool qualification and throughput; develop experiments to diagnose and correct manufacturing problems; perform defect characterization and root cause analysis; develop project plans and cost/benefit analysis; own machine activation and testing with a team; prepare technical design reviews.
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC
