Solar Manufacturing Technician

Rocket Lab; Arlington (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a skilled Thin Film Solar Production Technician to support the manufacturing of cutting-edge thin film photovoltaic modules in Arlington, TX. This hands-on role requires expertise in web handling and thin-film deposition processes, as well as a commitment to working in a dynamic and innovative environment. You will be responsible for operating complex manufacturing equipment, monitoring process parameters, and collaborating on process development to optimize production efficiency. Join us to contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.

Benefits

Competitive salaries

Continuous learning and development

Health and wellness options

Paid holidays and time off

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience with roll-to-roll processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of web dynamics including tension control.
• Familiarity with vacuum deposition techniques like sputtering and evaporation.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain roll-to-roll vacuum deposition systems.
• Monitor process parameters for optimal film uniformity.
• Perform inspections and preventive maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Web handling

Process control

Thin-film deposition

Mechanical systems

Pneumatic systems

Electrical systems

Education

Associate's degree in Engineering Technology

Equivalent hands-on experience

Tools

Vacuum deposition techniques

Process control systems

Data logging tools

Job description

Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure, and actionable? Then you’ve come to the right place!

E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space system that will fundamentally change the design, economics, manufacturing, and service delivery associated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems.

We’re intentional, curious, and committed to innovating space-based communications and delivering actionable intelligence to expand global economies, protect space and our planet, and enhance our quality of life.

The E-Space Manufacturing Solar Team builds the world's most advanced aerospace products.

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Thin Film Solar Production Technician to support the manufacturing of flexible thin film photovoltaic modules. This hands-on role focuses on operating, monitoring, and optimizing manufacturing and roll-to-roll (R2R) processing equipment used in the deposition and fabrication of thin-film solar layers. The ideal candidate has a strong background in web handling, process control, and thin-film deposition in a cleanroom or high-tech manufacturing environment.

This position is based in Arlington, TX. To succeed, you must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed. Occasional travel may be required.

What you'll be doing:

• Operate and maintain roll-to-roll vacuum deposition and coating systems used for thin-film production.
• Monitor process parameters and equipment performance to ensure optimal web tension, alignment, and film uniformity.
• Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on web-handling and deposition equipment.
• Collaborate with the team to optimize and develop new processes.
• Support process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement efforts with engineering and R&D teams.
• Handle substrates and materials (e.g., substrates, metals) carefully and in accordance with SOPs.
• Document operational steps, process deviations, and maintenance activities in logs and reports.

What you will bring to this role:

• Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Materials Science, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• At least 2 years of experience with roll-to-roll or web-based processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of web dynamics including tension control, tracking, splicing, and substrate handling.
• Familiarity with vacuum deposition techniques such as sputtering, evaporation, or CVD.
• Comfort working with mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical systems on production tools.

Extra points for the following:

• Experience with thin-film photovoltaic materials (CIGS, CdTe, a-Si, perovskites).
• Knowledge of process control systems (SCADA, PLC) and data logging tools.
• Experience in pilot-scale or high-volume manufacturing of flexible electronics or photovoltaics.

This is a full-time, exempt position based in Arlington, TX.

We are redefining satellite design, manufacturing, and usage—so we seek candidates with passion, deep knowledge, and direct experience in LEO satellite component development, design, and in-orbit activities. If you have this experience, we’ll be impressed.

E-Space cannot provide employment sponsorship for candidates without work authorization for this location.

Why E-Space is right for you:

Join us to play a crucial role in our success. Our team is dedicated and responsible, committed to our mission to create new global capabilities to improve lives, business efficiency, and build a smarter planet. Sometimes, extra hours, nights, and weekends are needed to meet critical deadlines. We offer a dynamic environment with professional growth opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful industry impact.

We support and invest in our team members’ well-being—physical, emotional, and financial. When working at E-Space, you can expect:

• The opportunity to make a real difference

• Core commitment to sustainability

• A fair and honest workplace

• Encouragement of innovative thinking

• Competitive salaries

• Continuous learning and development

• Health and wellness options

• Financial planning solutions

• Optional legal services (US only)

• Paid holidays and time off