Solar Development Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

SET Development is supporting a confidential, venture-backed aerospace company developing first-of-kind space-based solar power systems - designed to deliver continuous baseload energy from orbit to ground, 24/7, across entire continents, without batteries or seasonal constraints. This is an IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE POSITION!
This is an early-stage, high-impact engineering environment. You will own real decisions, work across disciplines, and contribute directly to hardware that will fly.
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THE ROLE
We are seeking a Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer to lead the design, development, qualification, and in-orbit performance optimization of spacecraft photovoltaic systems - from initial concept through end-of-life.
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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Solar Array Design & Architecture
- Design spacecraft solar array systems including cell technology selection (multi-junction), string configuration, panel layout, and system interfaces
- Develop power budgets and orbital energy balance models across eclipse cycles, pointing constraints, and end-of-life degradation scenarios
- Produce interface control documents (ICDs), design specifications, and technical documentation
Analysis & Modeling
- Perform electrical, thermal, and structural analyses of solar array assemblies
- Model radiation effects, thermal cycling, and long-term degradation
- Evaluate system-level performance impacts across mission scenarios
Hardware Development & Integration
- Support development of deployable solar array systems including structural interfaces and articulation mechanisms
- Contribute to rapid prototyping, hardware integration, and validation
- Collaborate with structures, avionics, manufacturing, and supply chain teams
Test & Qualification
- Define and execute qualification and acceptance test campaigns: TVAC, vibration, shock, electrical performance, and lifecycle testing
- Analyze test results, respond to anomalies, and drive design improvements
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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering (or related field)
- 5+ years of experience in spacecraft solar arrays, spacecraft power systems, or space-rated photovoltaic hardware
- Demonstrated experience in at least one of: solar array design/sizing, power system modeling, or space hardware qualification and testing
- U.S. citizenship required (export-controlled work)
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PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering
- Hands-on flight program experience with solar arrays or power subsystems
- Familiarity with power regulation, string configuration, and bypass diode design
- Experience with radiation effects, degradation modeling, and ECSS/NASA/MIL qualification standards
- Hands-on lab experience: hardware builds, soldering/cell interconnection, environmental testing
- Experience with deployable structures or solar array drive mechanisms (SADMs)
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COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
- Competitive Base Salary
- Relocation Assistance available
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Disability and life insurance
- Competitive paid time off
- 401(k) with employer matching
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ITAR / EXPORT CONTROL REQUIREMENT
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
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ABOUT SET DEVELOPMENT
SET Development is a premier aerospace consulting firm providing highly specialized engineering talent across space, defense, and advanced technology programs. Our team supports some of the most complex and impactful missions in the industry.
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HOW TO APPLY
Apply directly through this posting or reach out to SET Development for a confidential conversation about the role and client organization.
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
SET Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected status. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, even if you do not meet every listed qualification.