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Job details

PVD Process Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink)

SpaceX / Starlink is building a greenfield solar cell production plant to supply high-efficiency cells for satellites and launch vehicles. We are seeking a PVD Process Engineer to develop, scale, and optimize sputtering and other PVD processes for SHJ cells, lead equipment commissioning and ramp, and establish high-yield manufacturing at GW-scale.

Skills

  • PVD/sputtering process development
  • Vacuum systems and plasma physics understanding
  • Thin-film characterization (SEM, XRD, Hall, SIMS) knowledge
  • DOE and SPC statistical methods
  • Experience with PE-CVD, evaporation, ALD (preferred)
  • Cleanroom manufacturing experience
  • Data analysis and scripting (Python, R, SQL)
  • High-volume production ramp experience

Responsibilities

  • Design, qualify, and optimize DC/RF magnetron sputtering and other PVD processes for SHJ front/back contacts and TCO layers (e.g., ITO).
  • Lead process development for new tools and materials, managing targets, deposition rates, uniformity, adhesion, and defect reduction.
  • Develop experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis to diagnose manufacturing issues and drive yield improvements.
  • Perform defect characterization, root-cause analysis, and corrective action plans using microscopy and thin-film metrology.
  • Plan and execute equipment procurement, plant layout, commissioning, and machine activation with small engineering teams.
  • Develop project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analyses for new processes and capital equipment.
  • Prepare technical design review content and take ownership of yield, uptime, and cost outcomes for the production line.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to transition products from R&D to high-volume manufacturing and implement SPC/lean practices.

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related STEM required
  • Master's or PhD in materials science, chemical engineering, physics, or related preferred

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and performance-based compensation
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan (401k) and other financial benefits
  • Equity/stock opportunities (company dependent)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Professional development and training
  • Opportunities for onsite career growth in manufacturing and R&D
To read the complete job description, please click on the ‘Apply’ button
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Average salary estimate

$140000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$110000K
$170000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

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CULTURE VALUES
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SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
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SALARY RANGE
$110,000/yr - $170,000/yr
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, onsite
DATE POSTED
April 10, 2026
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