Thin-Film Materials Engineer for Solar Cells

Spacex; Bastrop (TX); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Materials Engineer, Thin Films to advance PECVD films used in insourced cell manufacturing for Starlink. You will work with process engineering to link deposition to material properties, support qualifications, and drive improvements in cell performance, yield, and cost.

The role emphasizes problem solving, data-driven decisions, and strong communication within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Occasional travel and extended hours may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in materials science, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, or a STEM discipline.
• 1+ years of professional experience with thin films, PECVD or vacuum-deposited coatings, or semiconductor/PV materials.
• Preferred: Master's degree or PhD in a related field.
• Hands-on experience with PECVD-deposited films in semiconductor or solar cell manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Partner with solar cell process engineering on PECVD thin films, supporting materials characterization and production readiness.
• Execute materials characterization and analysis of plasma-deposited films; correlate process conditions with thickness, refractive index, composition, lifetime, and cell performance.
• Build proficiency with thin-film materials and lab/metrology methods; consult with senior engineers on higher-impact decisions.
• Support DOEs and process trials: define materials measurements, collect data, and interpret results with process engineering.
• Document materials results and communicate status, risks, and recommendations to cross-functional partners and leadership.

Skills

1+ years in thin films

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM field

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Spectroscopic ellipsometry

XPS

SEM-EDS

FTIR

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Materials Engineer, Thin Films to advance PECVD films used in insourced cell manufacturing for Starlink. You will work with process engineering to link deposition to material properties, support qualifications, and drive improvements in cell performance, yield, and cost.

The role emphasizes problem solving, data-driven decisions, and strong communication within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Occasional travel and extended hours may be required.