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Solar Cell Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Solar Cell Manufacturing information

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$36.5K

$78K

$116K

How much do solar cell manufacturing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar cell manufacturing 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 is solar cell manufacturing?

Solar cell manufacturing is the process of producing photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity. This involves several steps, including the purification of silicon, wafer production, cell fabrication, and module assembly. Modern manufacturing techniques focus on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact. The end product is used in solar panels for residential, commercial, and industrial energy generation. Solar cell manufacturing is a key industry in the transition to renewable energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in solar cell manufacturing, and why are they important?

A strong background in materials science, engineering, or physics, often with a relevant degree or technical training, is essential for working in solar cell manufacturing. Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication equipment, quality control systems, and industry-standard software like CAD or process control tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that enhance performance in this field. These competencies ensure efficient production, high product quality, and innovation in a rapidly evolving renewable energy sector.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in solar cell manufacturing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in solar cell manufacturing often encounter challenges such as maintaining high product quality while maximizing production efficiency, adapting to rapid technological advances, and ensuring strict safety standards in a cleanroom environment. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous training on new manufacturing processes, close collaboration with engineering and quality assurance teams, and adhering to established protocols for equipment maintenance and safety. Staying proactive in learning and open communication with team members helps in effectively managing these complexities, ultimately contributing to both individual and organizational success.

What is the difference between Solar Cell Manufacturing vs Solar Panel Installation?

AspectSolar Cell ManufacturingSolar Panel Installation
Primary RoleProducing solar cells and modules in a factory settingInstalling solar panels at residential or commercial sites
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, controlled environmentsOn-site at customer locations, outdoor or rooftop
Required SkillsTechnical skills in electronics, materials, and manufacturing processesElectrical knowledge, installation skills, safety protocols
CertificationsManufacturing certifications, technical trainingElectrical licenses, safety certifications

Solar Cell Manufacturing focuses on producing solar cells and modules in factories, requiring technical manufacturing skills. In contrast, Solar Panel Installation involves on-site setup of solar systems, emphasizing installation expertise and safety. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ significantly in work environment and skill requirements.

What jobs does solar cell manufacturing create?

Solar cell manufacturing creates a variety of jobs including production technicians, quality control inspectors, process engineers, equipment maintenance workers, and research and development scientists. These roles involve operating manufacturing equipment, ensuring product quality, improving production processes, and developing new solar cell technologies.
More about Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs?

The most popular types of Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs are:

What states have the most Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Cell Manufacturing jobs are:

Infographic showing various Solar Cell Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,000 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Facilities Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
FACILITIES ENGINEER, SOLAR CELL FACTORY (STARLINK)
At SpaceX, we are building the next generation of space infrastructure to enable large-scale AI data centers in orbit. These orbital AI platforms require massive amounts of reliable, high-efficiency solar power to support intensive computing workloads in space. To make this possible, we are standing up one of the largest solar cell manufacturing facilities in the world. We are seeking a Facilities Engineer to oversee the maintenance, performance, and continuous improvement of facility systems (power, ultrapure water, exhaust, bulk gases) that support high-volume solar cell manufacturing. This high-impact role offers the opportunity to build and shape the organization from the ground up while directly enabling SpaceX's ambitious vision for AI data centers in space.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Oversee the maintenance, performance, and continuous improvement of facility systems including power distribution, ultrapure water, exhaust systems (acidic, caustic, harmful gas, VOC, and general heat), bulk gases, chilled water, and process cooling systems that support high-volume solar cell manufacturing
  • Collaborate with engineers, technicians, production teams, and leadership to maintain systems in peak operating condition and develop detailed work instructions for preventative maintenance to ensure zero unplanned interruptions
  • Monitor and optimize utility systems supporting wet chemistry texturing, PECVD, PVD, metallization, and cleaning processes
  • Perform failure assessments, root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions for facility systems
  • Ensure work and materials comply with manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and all applicable safety, environmental, and building regulations
  • Read and interpret P&IDs, schematics, OEM manuals, and construction drawings for assembly, repair, and optimization
  • Present equipment and system performance statuses to internal customers and leadership
  • Track and resolve electronic work tickets, manage priorities with minimal guidance, and take on additional responsibilities as needed
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives for reliability, uptime, yield, and cost in a high-volume production environment
  • Operate forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other equipment as required

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, chemical, or related engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of professional experience in facilities engineering or sustaining engineering for a manufacturing environment (internship experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience with cleanroom facility systems, ultrapure water, exhaust abatement, bulk gas delivery, and/or process utility systems supporting semiconductor or solar manufacturing
  • Knowledge of high-pressure gases, flammable gases, hazardous chemicals, and associated safety systems
  • Proficiency reading and interpreting P&IDs, schematics, and technical drawings
  • Experience with continuous improvement, root cause analysis, and implementing preventative maintenance programs
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and controls systems down to the component level
  • Familiarity with commercial building codes, OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment balancing multiple projects
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and computerized maintenance management systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to travel internationally (20%)
  • Ability to stand up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 pounds unassisted, and maneuver around equipment in a factory setting
  • Ability to work in industrial environments with fumes/odors, noise, hazardous chemicals, and confined spaces
  • Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US