Senior Solar Process Engineer - PVD & SHJ Cells

Future Ventures; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Principal Solar Process Engineer, Solar Cells (STARLINK), to lead PVD processes for SHJ cells, optimize deposition of ITO and thin films, and drive scaling for space-grade solar production.

You will own equipment qualification, DOE-driven experiments, and cross‑functional collaboration to achieve high efficiency, low defects, and cost-effective manufacturing for Starlink satellites and Starship missions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 10+ years in chemical engineering design or similar.
• Experience scaling PVD processes to >1GW/year.
• Ability to travel frequently.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize PVD sputtering processes.
• Lead toolset development and deposition rate optimization.
• Develop and maintain new manufacturing processes.
• Analyze production processes from first principles.
• Prepare technical design reviews and cost analyses.
• Own machine activation and testing with a small team.

Skills

PVD process engineering

Vacuum systems

DOE & statistics

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis (Python)

Cross-functional teamwork

Photovoltaics

SHJ/LAB scale

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

10+ years experience

Tools

PVD equipment hardware

ITO deposition

SPC

SEM/TEM analysis

XRD analysis

DOE software

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Principal Solar Process Engineer, Solar Cells (STARLINK), to lead PVD processes for SHJ cells, optimize deposition of ITO and thin films, and drive scaling for space-grade solar production.

You will own equipment qualification, DOE-driven experiments, and cross‑functional collaboration to achieve high efficiency, low defects, and cost-effective manufacturing for Starlink satellites and Starship missions.