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Solar Process Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Solestial is pioneering the future of space-based solar power by developing advanced solar ... As our Laser Process Engineer , you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser ...

Tracks project costs by engaging in the following: processes subcontractor and vendor pay requests ... SOLAR ELECTRICAL FIELD ENGINEER JOB LOCATION: MULTI-STATE, REQUIRES HIGH TRAVEL CLASSIFICATION ...

... and solar panels. You will work closely with Manufacturing, Process Engineering, Equipment ... Engineering, and Product Development teams to create reliable, scalable automation solutions that ...

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Solar Process Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$49.1K

$91.4K

$141.5K

How much do solar process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar process engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $91,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $102,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solar process engineer?

Solar Process Engineers are professionals who design, optimize, and oversee the manufacturing processes involved in producing solar panels and related components. They work to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in solar energy production, often collaborating with research and development, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams. Their responsibilities may include developing new fabrication techniques, troubleshooting production issues, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Solar Process Engineers play a crucial role in advancing renewable energy technologies and making solar power more accessible and affordable.

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

To thrive as a Solar Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing or process optimization. Familiarity with process simulation software, statistical process control (SPC) tools, and certifications like Six Sigma are typically used in this role. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in cross-functional teams and problem-solving situations. These competencies ensure efficient production processes, high-quality solar products, and continual innovation in the rapidly evolving renewable energy industry.

What are some typical challenges solar process engineers face when optimizing manufacturing processes for solar panels?

Solar Process Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining high product yield while minimizing manufacturing costs, integrating new technologies without disrupting production, and ensuring strict quality standards are met. They must also troubleshoot equipment issues and collaborate closely with R&D, quality assurance, and production teams to implement process improvements. A proactive approach and strong problem-solving skills are essential for adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and industry standards in solar manufacturing.

What is the difference between Solar Process Engineer vs Solar Design Engineer?

AspectSolar Process EngineerSolar Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in solar technology or process optimizationBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in solar design or CAD software
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, process development labs, field testing sitesDesign offices, project sites, client consultations
Employer & Industry UsageSolar manufacturing companies, energy firms, R&D centersEngineering consultancies, solar project developers, EPC firms

The Solar Process Engineer focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes and improving efficiency in solar product production, while the Solar Design Engineer concentrates on designing solar systems and layouts for projects. Both roles require technical expertise and industry knowledge but differ mainly in their focus areas within the solar industry.

What are popular job titles related to Solar Process Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Solar Process Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Solar Process Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,365 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Solestial is pioneering the future of space-based solar power by developing advanced solar technologies optimized for the harsh conditions of space. Our innovative, low-cost, and scalable solar arrays are engineered for next-generation satellites, spacecraft, and orbital infrastructure. We are driven by a mission to power the space economy and unlock limitless opportunities in orbit and beyond.
 

As a Chemical Process Engineer, you will support and develop electroplating and wet chemical processes used in the manufacturing of Solestial's solar cells and modules. This role will be responsible for maintaining existing copper plating operations while leading the development, scale-up, and deployment of new nickel and gold plating processes.

You will work closely with Manufacturing, Equipment Engineering, Process Engineering, and Product Development teams to improve process capability, yield, throughput, and reliability. This role will also support wastewater treatment systems and help ensure safe, compliant operation of chemical processes across multiple manufacturing areas.

This is a hands-on engineering role that combines process development, manufacturing support, troubleshooting, and scale-up of new technologies.

Your Mission
  • Support and optimize electroplating processes used in solar cell manufacturing.

  • Develop, characterize, and scale new nickel and gold plating processes for production.

  • Support existing copper plating operations and continuous process improvement efforts.

  • Design and execute experiments to improve process performance, yield, and reliability.

  • Monitor critical process parameters and implement process controls to ensure consistent results.

  • Analyze process data and present findings to technical and manufacturing teams.

  • Troubleshoot process excursions, yield issues, and equipment-related challenges.

  • Partner with Manufacturing and Equipment Engineering teams to improve throughput and operational efficiency.

  • Support installation, qualification, and ramp-up of new plating equipment and process lines.

  • Develop and maintain process documentation, operating procedures, work instructions, and training materials.

  • Support operation and continuous improvement of wastewater treatment systems associated with manufacturing operations.

  • Train operators and manufacturing personnel on process requirements and best practices.

  • Follow safety requirements and contribute to a safe, organized, and compliant manufacturing environment.

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related technical field.

  • Experience working with electrochemical, electroplating, wet chemistry, semiconductor, photovoltaic, or related manufacturing processes.

  • Strong understanding of process development, process control, and manufacturing scale-up.

  • Experience troubleshooting complex process and equipment issues.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Experience analyzing process data and communicating technical findings.

  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

  • Ability to work safely around chemicals and manufacturing equipment.

What Gives You an Edge
  • Experience with copper, nickel, gold, or other metal plating processes.

  • Experience supporting semiconductor, photovoltaic, PCB, advanced packaging, or electronics manufacturing.

  • Experience with wastewater treatment systems or industrial chemical waste handling.

  • Experience with statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), and yield improvement methodologies.

  • Experience transferring processes from development into manufacturing environments.

  • Experience working in cleanroom or high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Our Benefits
  • Competitive compensation - we want you to grow with us
  • Generous, high-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage on day one of employment
  • 15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 paid holidays annually - with an extended holiday break at year's end
  • 401K with employer match up to 4% of salary
  • Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability and employer-sponsored life insurance
  • Your work will literally go to space!
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