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Solar Cells Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience fabricating and testing solar cells with novel materials including thin film silicon, perovskite solar cells, and III-V's specifically GaAs. * Practical knowledge related to the ...

Test Engineer - Space Solar

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Starlight Solar Travel: Occasional About Starpath Starpath develops and manufactures the ... From electrical characterization of individual cells through panel-level environmental testing, you ...

Solar Cell Reliability Engineer (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$101K - $128K/yr

Your work will ensure our solar cells deliver unmatched power density and durability for Starship, Starlink, AI Sat, and deep-space missions. Your work will form the backbone of the Starlink network ...

Solar Cell Reliability Engineer (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$101K - $128K/yr

Your work will ensure our solar cells deliver unmatched power density and durability for Starship, Starlink, AI Sat, and deep-space missions. Your work will form the backbone of the Starlink network ...

Sr. Equipment Engineer

Jeffersonville, IN · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Canadian Solar Inc. is a vertically-integrated manufacturer of ingots, wafers, cells, solar modules (panels) and custom-designed solar power applications. Canadian Solar Inc. delivers solar power ...

Sr. Equipment Engineer

Jeffersonville, IN · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Canadian Solar Inc. is a vertically-integrated manufacturer of ingots, wafers, cells, solar modules (panels) and custom-designed solar power applications. Canadian Solar Inc. delivers solar power ...

Showing results 41-60

Solar Cells information

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$11K

$66.3K

$110.5K

How much do solar cells jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 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 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.

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.

Is working in solar cells a good career?

Working in solar cells involves designing, manufacturing, or installing photovoltaic systems, and offers opportunities in renewable energy industries. The field is growing due to increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and often requires technical skills, certifications, and safety training. It can provide stable employment with potential for advancement as the industry expands.

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.
More about Solar Cells jobs
What states have the most Solar Cells jobs? States with the most job openings for Solar Cells jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Solar Cells jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Solar Cells jobs are:
Infographic showing various Solar Cells job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,250 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Machine Maintenance Technician, Solar Cells (Starlink) - Day Shift

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

MACHINE MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN, SOLAR CELLS (STARLINK) - DAY SHIFT

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 Machine Maintenance Technician to perform scheduled maintenance, repairs, and basic troubleshooting on production equipment to minimize downtime in solar cell manufacturing.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, repairs, and basic troubleshooting on solar cell production equipment including laser cutters, texturing lines, PECVD tools, PVD systems, screen printers, and IV testers to minimize downtime
  • Execute disassembly, inspection, cleaning, reassembly, and testing of production machinery supporting texturing, deposition, metallization, and testing processes
  • Collaborate with engineers and production teams to maintain equipment in peak operating condition and develop detailed work instructions
  • Identify leading indicators of equipment instability and perform corrective actions to support high-volume 24/7 manufacturing
  • Read and interpret schematics, P&IDs, and OEM manuals for assembly, repair, and reassembly
  • Ensure all maintenance activities comply with safety protocols for hazardous gases, chemicals, and cleanroom environments
  • Track and resolve electronic work tickets, maintain accurate maintenance records, and support continuous improvement for uptime and yield
  • Operate forklifts, scissor lifts, and other equipment as needed while upholding 5S standards in ISO 7 and ISO 9 production areas

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2+ years of professional experience performing maintenance on industrial manufacturing equipment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience maintaining vacuum deposition, wet chemistry, or precision printing equipment in semiconductor or solar manufacturing
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems, rotating machinery, pneumatics, and basic electrical troubleshooting
  • Technical certification or journeyman-level experience in maintenance or industrial technology
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to read schematics, blueprints, and technical documentation
  • Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and gowning procedures
  • 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 travel internationally (10%)
  • 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 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