Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer

Overview Energy is a mission-driven team committed to delivering Space Solar Energy to the world. We operate at the intersection of space infrastructure and energy abundance, providing baseload power across entire continents 24/7, without seasonality or the need for batteries. Headquartered in the Washington, DC area and backed by world-class investors, we are advancing the next generation of clean energy technology.The RoleOverview Energy's Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer leads the design, development, qualification, and in-orbit performance optimization of spacecraft solar array and power generation systems from concept through end-of-life. The role blends spacecraft power subsystem engineering, structural and thermal design awareness, and hands-on test and integration work to deliver reliable, lightweight, and highly efficient photovoltaic power solutions for orbital and deep-space missions. The ideal candidate has experience with space-rated photovoltaic technologies, deployable solar array mechanisms, and spacecraft power architectures, and can own the solar array subsystem from requirements definition through flight support.Key ResponsibilitiesArchitect and design spacecraft solar array systems, including cell technology selection, string and panel configuration, array sizing, and interfacesPerform power budget development, orbital energy balance analyses, and end-of-life power predictions across mission scenarios, eclipse seasons, and pointing constraintsDevelop detailed design specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), and technical documentation for solar panels, harnessing, deployment mechanisms, and array drive assemblies using CAD and industry-standard analysis toolsConduct electrical, mechanical, and thermal analyses of solar array assemblies, including structural margins for launch loads, thermal gradients, degradation, and pointing performance impactsSupport design of deployment and articulation solutions (hinges, hold-down and release mechanisms, solar array drive mechanisms), working with mechanisms and structures engineers to balance stiffness, strength, mass, and deployment reliabilityDefine, plan, and execute qualification and acceptance test campaigns for solar array assemblies and subcomponents, including electrical, mechanical, environmental, and life testingWork with manufacturing and supply chain to ensure design-for-manufacturability, process control, and traceability of space-qualified photovoltaic materials and componentsRequired Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with a focus on power or space systems5+ years of experience in spacecraft power systems, spacecraft solar arrays, or closely related photovoltaic hardware for space applications (cell, module, panel, or array-level)Strong proficiency with CAD and analysis tools for mechanical and/or electromechanical design, plus experience with solar array sizing and performance modelingExperience with power system design (voltage regulation, string configuration, bypass diodes)Experience with rapid prototyping and hands-on electrical and mechanical assemblyExperience in soldering techniques relevant to solar module assembly, including hand soldering, reflow methods, and cell interconnection (tabbing/stringing)Experience with environmental and qualification testing relevant to flight hardware (e.g., vibration, shock, thermal vacuum, radiation), including test planning and data reviewU.S. citizenship requiredPreferred Skills & ExperienceGraduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering with emphasis on spacecraft power systems or space photovoltaicsHands-on experience with design and qualification of spacecraft solar arrays, solar array drive mechanisms, or power distribution hardware for flight programsExperience with lightweight, flexible solar array stackups and associated support structuresFamiliarity with space qualification and reliability standards (e.g., NASA, ECSS, MIL standards) applicable to power and structural hardwareExperience with radiation effects on solar cells and materials, including shielding strategies and degradation modeling over mission lifeBenefitsThe health and safety of our employees and their families comes first. In addition to competitive salary and equity, we offer medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage, a health and wellness stipend, 6 weeks of paid time off, parental leave, and employer 401K matching. The Company reserves the right to modify or change these benefits at any time.ITAR RequirementsTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Equal Opportunity Employer