Solar Manufacturing Lead (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Solar Manufacturing Lead (Aerospace): Spearheading the stand-up of an in-house solar module production line for LEO satellite constellations with an accent on vertical integration, equipment procurement, and process qualification. Focus on transitioning from pathfinder builds to full-rate flight production and implementing space-grade quality controls.

Location: San Jose, CA

Salary: $144,000 – $155,000

Company

An end-to-end Space Systems Provider that designs, builds, and operates LEO satellite constellations delivering mission-critical data.

What you will do

• Lead the end-to-end setup of the solar manufacturing lab, including facility requirements, equipment installation, and workstation optimization.
• Act as the primary liaison with external partners to leverage technologies and document processes such as stringing, lamination, and assembly.
• Procure and commission production hardware, including laser cutters, laminators, and solar simulators.
• Create and maintain detailed SOPs and Work Instructions optimized for spacecraft requirements.
• Lead the transition from initial pathfinder builds to full-rate flight production, resolving manufacturing bottlenecks and yield issues.
• Implement in-line quality controls, including Electroluminescence (EL) and flash testing, to ensure space-grade reliability.

Requirements

• 5+ years in solar module manufacturing or high-precision electromechanical assembly (semiconductor, medical device, or aerospace).
• B.S. in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Materials, or Electrical Engineering.
• Deep familiarity with PV module assembly (stringing, tabbing, encapsulation, and lamination).
• Demonstrated experience in New Product Introduction (NPI) and manufacturing line establishment.
• Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) to comply with U.S. Government export regulations.

Nice to have

• Direct experience with custom terrestrial solar technology or high-efficiency space-grade PV modules.
• Experience with space-environment reliability standards (thermal cycling, vacuum bake-out, and vibration).
• Knowledge of automation and robotics for solar cell handling.
• Familiarity with SolidWorks for tooling and fixture design.

Culture & Benefits

• Equity compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k retirement plan, short & long term disability, and life insurance.
• Three weeks paid vacation for new employees, 12 paid holidays, and unlimited sick time.
• Paid parental leave and a commitment to creating a diverse and dynamic workforce.