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SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$140 - $210/hr

Sr. Wet Process Equipment Engineer, Solar Cells (Starlink) Bastrop, TX SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than ...

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How much do solar cells jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar cells in the United States is $66,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 made from semiconductor materials, such as silicon, that absorb photons from sunlight and release electrons, generating an electric current. Solar cells are commonly used in solar panels for residential, commercial, and industrial applications to produce clean, renewable energy. Their efficiency and cost have improved significantly over the years, making solar energy more accessible and widely adopted.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar cell engineer?

To thrive as a Solar Cell Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, electrical engineering, and photovoltaic technology, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as COMSOL or Silvaco), laboratory testing equipment, and industry certifications like NABCEP are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient solar cells, ensuring quality, and advancing renewable energy solutions.

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

Professionals in solar cell manufacturing often encounter challenges such as maintaining high efficiency levels, ensuring consistent product quality, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. These challenges can be addressed by staying up to date with industry advancements, participating in regular training, and collaborating closely with R&D and quality assurance teams. Additionally, implementing robust process controls and fostering a culture of continuous improvement help teams quickly identify issues and optimize production workflows.
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Solar Cells jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Cells job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,250 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Quality Inspector, Solar Cells (Starlink)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

QUALITY INSPECTOR, SOLAR CELLS (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 Quality Inspector to conduct visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections of solar cells at various production stages and perform final outgoing quality verification.  

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Conduct visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections of solar cells at incoming, in-process, and final stages including checks for cracks, chips, edge quality, print defects, and layer uniformity 
  • Operate and interpret results from metrology tools such as IV testers (AM1.5/AM0), photoluminescence (PL), electroluminescence (EL), AOI systems, and sheet resistance meters 
  • Verify critical cell parameters including efficiency, Voc, Jsc, fill factor, thickness, and lifetime against targets 
  • Perform final outgoing quality verification and packout inspections prior to shipment 
  • Document inspection results, disposition nonconforming material, and support root cause analysis for quality issues 
  • Work closely with production and engineering teams to improve yield and reduce defects 
  • Maintain inspection records and ensure compliance with quality standards in cleanroom environments 
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and uphold 5S and safety requirements 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2+ years of experience performing quality inspections in a manufacturing environment 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Experience with solar cell, semiconductor, or precision electronics inspection processes 
  • Familiarity with optical inspection, electrical testing, and materials characterization tools 
  • Knowledge of quality metrics such as efficiency, Voc, Jsc, fill factor, and defect classification 
  • Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and engineering drawings 
  • Experience with statistical process control and quality documentation systems 
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work effectively in ISO-classified cleanrooms 
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment 
  • Experience with lock-out/tag-out, job hazard analysis, and chemical safety protocols 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and executing digital work instructions 
  • Demonstrated punctuality, ability to work in a high-stress environment, and flexibility to adjust priorities 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Ability to stand for up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 lbs. 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 for one of the following AWS shifts (start and end times are approximate): 
    • A Shift - 5:00am-5:00pm, Sunday-Wednesday 
    • B Shift - 5:00am-5:00pm, Wednesday-Saturday 

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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

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