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$36.5K

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How much do solar cell jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar cell in the United States is $78,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solar Cell Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Cell Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, physics, electrical engineering, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with photovoltaic simulation software, semiconductor fabrication tools, and industry standards such as IEC or UL certifications is often required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are vital soft skills for innovating and improving solar cell technology. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing efficient, reliable solar energy solutions in a rapidly evolving industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in solar cell research and development?

Professionals in solar cell research and development often face the challenge of balancing efficiency improvements with cost-effectiveness and scalability. Keeping up with rapid technological advancements and integrating new materials or processes can be demanding. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as engineers, material scientists, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to move innovations from the lab to large-scale production. Additionally, navigating strict safety and environmental regulations is a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Solar Cell vs Solar Panel Installer?

AspectSolar CellSolar Panel Installer
Primary RoleIndividual component that converts sunlight into electricityProfessionally installs solar panels and systems
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials; knowledge of solar technologyCertifications like NABCEP, safety training required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, research labs, or assemblyConstruction sites, rooftops, outdoor locations
Industry UsageComponent within solar energy systemsInstallation and maintenance of solar energy systems

While a solar cell is a fundamental component that converts sunlight into electricity, a solar panel installer is a professional who installs these components into complete solar energy systems. Understanding the difference helps clarify roles in the solar industry, from manufacturing to installation.

What are solar cells?

Solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells, are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. They are typically made from semiconductor materials like silicon, which absorb photons from sunlight and release electrons, generating an electric current. Solar cells are the building blocks of solar panels, which are widely used for renewable energy generation in homes, businesses, and utility-scale power plants. Their efficiency and affordability have improved significantly over the years, making solar energy an increasingly popular and sustainable power source.
More about Solar Cell jobs
What states have the most Solar Cell jobs? States with the most job openings for Solar Cell jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Solar Cell jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Cell jobs are:
Solar Cell jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Cell job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,000 per year, or $37.5 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

Mechanical Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

MECHANICAL ENGINEER, SOLAR CELLS (STARLINK) 

The Solar Cell team is revolutionizing power generation for space applications through advanced solar cell manufacturing. We're scaling production of high-efficiency solar cells to support sustainable energy solutions for Starlink constellations, launch vehicles, and beyond. As a Solar Cell Factory Mechanical Engineer, you will design, build, and optimize mechanical and automation systems for the production of solar cell manufacturing equipment and material movement mechanisms. This role requires a detail-oriented engineer passionate about safe electrical design, designing robust and efficient mechanical systems, and taking on total ownership of existing systems for optimization in addition to development of novel equipment, all while minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency in our cutting-edge solar cell factory.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Own electronics manufacturing subsystems and equipment from conceptual design through high-volume production and automation ramp
  • Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system-level optimization
  • Test and iterate on products by performing failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), reliability modeling, and stress testing to predict and mitigate potential failures and drive high overall equipment effectiveness
  • Design and develop the production lines that manufacture your product, including robot end effector design, process development, control system design, automation programming, and more
  • Uptime Optimization: Monitor and track equipment uptime metrics using data analytics tools; identify bottlenecks, downtime causes, and implement preventive measures such as predictive maintenance schedules to maximize operational availability
  • Evaluate and select equipment suppliers based on reliability, performance requirements and core business needs; oversee installation, commissioning, and ongoing performance of vendor-supplied process equipment to ensure target rate, yield and uptime is achieved

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline 
  • Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 
  • 1+ years of professional experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing (internship experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Master's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline 
  • 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
  • 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead
  • Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)
  • Solid understanding and application of GD&T, mechanical engineering fundamentals, structural analysis, and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
  • Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes and how to design for manufacturability
  • Exposure to some variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (motion systems, dispense systems, temperature controllers, laser distance sensors, injection molders, die casters, etc.)
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones 

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