Process Engineer - Solar Module Manufacturing

The Company:Solestial is pioneering the future of space-based solar power by developing advanced solar technologies optimized for the harsh conditions of space. Our innovative, low-cost, and scalable solar arrays are engineered for next-generation satellites, spacecraft, and orbital infrastructure. We are driven by a mission to power the space economy and unlock limitless opportunities in orbit and beyond.The Role:As a Process Engineer - Solar Cell Module Manufacturing & Integration, you will develop, optimize, and implement the materials and manufacturing processes used to build Solestial’s solar modules. You will work closely with Product, Manufacturing, Equipment, and Quality teams to translate module designs into reliable, repeatable, and scalable production processes.Your Mission:Develop, optimize, and implement manufacturing processes for solar cell module assembly and integrationCollaborate with design engineering in the evaluation and selection of materials, including polymers, adhesives, thermal interface materials, and electrical insulation materialsTranslate product and design requirements into practical manufacturing processes, work instructions, and process specificationsPlan and execute process trials, experiments, and qualification activities to improve yield, quality, reliability, and manufacturabilityCoordinate materials characterization, process validation, design verification, and hardware qualification testingTroubleshoot materials, process, and integration issues in partnership with Manufacturing, Product, Equipment, and Quality teamsSupport the transfer of new module designs and processes from development into productionDevelop process controls, acceptance criteria, and standard methodologies that ensure consistent, high-quality module productionSupport supplier selection, material qualification, and ongoing supplier improvement effortsIdentify opportunities to improve process capability, cycle time, cost, and scalability as production growsWhat You Bring:Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related fieldAt least 5 years of experience in process engineering, materials engineering, or manufacturing engineering, preferably within the solar, semiconductor, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing industriesHands-on experience developing, optimizing, and implementing manufacturing processes for complex hardware or assembliesStrong knowledge of materials selection, characterization, and testing, particularly polymers, adhesives, thermal interface materials, and electrical insulation materialsExperience translating product requirements into manufacturing processes, material specifications, process specifications, and work instructionsExperience with process validation, qualification testing, troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvementAbility to use structured process-development tools such as DOE, SPC, process capability analysis, and PFMEAExperience supporting the transfer of new products or processes from development into manufacturingFamiliarity with supplier selection, material qualification, supplier development, and ongoing performance evaluationStrong cross-functional communication skills and the ability to work effectively with Product, Manufacturing, Equipment, and Quality teamsWhat Gives You an Edge:Experience with solar cell or solar module manufacturing, assembly, and integrationBackground in semiconductor, photovoltaic, aerospace, or other high-reliability manufacturing environmentsHands-on experience with module integration processes such as bonding, lamination, encapsulation, interconnection, thermal management, or insulationExperience scaling new materials and processes from development through qualification and productionFamiliarity with spaceflight hardware requirements, environmental testing, and qualification standardsA practical, hands-on approach to troubleshooting and a willingness to work directly with equipment, materials, and production teamsComfort operating in a fast-paced environment where processes are still being developed and priorities evolveOur Benefits:Competitive salaryGenerous, high-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage on day one of employment15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 paid holidays annually - with an extended holiday break at year’s end401K with employer match up to 4% of salaryEmployer-paid short-term and long-term disability and employer-sponsored life insuranceYour work will literally go to space!