Production Technician, Solar Cells (Starlink) - Day Shift

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is looking for a Production Technician in Bastrop, TX. In this role, you will execute skilled operations on solar cell production equipment, monitor process parameters, and perform quality control checks. Candidates should possess a high school diploma and at least 2 years of relevant manufacturing experience. Knowledge of vacuum deposition processes and excellent troubleshooting skills are preferred. The position requires compliance with safety standards and offers shift work flexibility.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and schematics.

Responsibilities

• Execute skilled operations and process monitoring on key equipment.
• Perform in-process inspections and quality control checks.
• Support root cause analysis for process issues.

Skills

Operating vacuum deposition equipment

Troubleshooting skills

Statistical process control knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Experience in cleanroom protocols

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Bastrop, TX

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

At SpaceX, we are building the next generation of space infrastructure to enable large-scale AI data centers in orbit. These orbital AI platforms require massive amounts of reliable, high-efficiency solar power to support intensive computing workloads in space. To make this possible, we are standing up one of the largest solar cell manufacturing facilities in the world. We are seeking a Production Technician to execute skilled operations on solar cell production equipment, perform process monitoring, basic troubleshooting, and support quality control activities at various stages of cell manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Execute skilled operations and process monitoring on key equipment including texturing lines, PECVD, PVD, metallization printers, and testing systems
• Monitor process parameters, identify deviations, and perform basic troubleshooting to maintain yield and throughput
• Perform in-process inspections, data logging, and quality control checks including PL, AOI, and IV testing support
• Support root cause analysis for process issues and implement corrective actions in collaboration with engineering
• Load/unload AGV carriers, change consumables (pastes, targets, gases), and assist with equipment setup and changeovers
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and cleanroom standards while handling hazardous chemicals and process gases
• Train production associates and contribute to continuous improvement of manufacturing processes
• Track production metrics and maintain accurate records in manufacturing execution systems

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience operating vacuum deposition, wet processing, or screen printing equipment in solar or semiconductor manufacturing
• Knowledge of process parameters for temperature, pressure, flow, and gas chemistry
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and data-driven decision making
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, schematics, and work instructions
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in a high-volume production setting
• Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and gowning procedures
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment
• Experience with lock-out/tag-out, job hazard analysis, and chemical safety protocols
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and executing digital work instructions
• Demonstrated punctuality, ability to work in a high-stress environment, and flexibility to adjust priorities

Additional Requirements

• Ability to stand up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 pounds unassisted, and maneuver around equipment in a factory setting
• Ability to work in industrial environments with fumes/odors, noise, hazardous chemicals, and confined spaces
• Must be available for one of the following AWS shifts (start and end times are approximate):
  • A Shift – 5:00am-5:00pm, Sunday‑Wednesday
  • B Shift – 5:00am-5:00pm, Wednesday‑Saturday
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].