Senior Solar Cell Reliability Engineer (Spaceflight)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX seeks a Sr. Solar Cell Reliability Engineer to own the reliability lab and manage end-to-end reliability of solar cells for Starlink. You will oversee testing from wafer/process to on-orbit performance, ensuring high power density and durability for space missions.

You will lead failure analysis, data-driven improvements, and collaborate with process, design, and flight teams. On-site Bastrop, TX, with frequent travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (any discipline) required.
• 5+ years in design, analysis, and/or system implementation in a related field.
• Preferred: advanced degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or space power systems.

Responsibilities

• Own and operate the solar cell reliability lab, including equipment strategy and data integrity.
• Define and execute space reliability test matrix for HJT cells (thermal cycling, vacuum, humidity, UV, etc.).
• Build the reliability narrative for flight reviews, including failure modes and life predictions.
• Collaborate with process/equipment teams to link parameters to reliability outcomes and drive improvements.
• Establish reliability gates, risk assessments, sampling plans, and release criteria.
• Develop and maintain test methods, fixtures, and automation for high-throughput reliability characterization.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

PV metrology

Vacuum systems

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s or Ph.D. in chemistry/engineering

Tools

Sinton lifetime

EL/PL

SEM

FTIR

Job description

SpaceX seeks a Sr. Solar Cell Reliability Engineer to own the reliability lab and manage end-to-end reliability of solar cells for Starlink. You will oversee testing from wafer/process to on-orbit performance, ensuring high power density and durability for space missions.

You will lead failure analysis, data-driven improvements, and collaborate with process, design, and flight teams. On-site Bastrop, TX, with frequent travel as needed.