PECVD/ PVD Process Technician - Solar Cell Manufacturing

The Company:

Solestial, Inc. is the solar energy company for space. Solestial’s core technology is a breakthrough ultra-thin silicon solar cell that can self-cure radiation damage at normal operating temperatures in space, packaged in a flexible, lightweight panel designed to achieve minimum degradation for up to 10 years in LEO. Solestial panels can be mass-produced using automated machines resulting in costs 90% lower than incumbent technologies, with virtually unlimited manufacturing capacity. From today’s satellite constellations and research projects to tomorrow’s utility-scale energy infrastructure and services in space, Solestial is powering the new space economy.

The Role:

As a PECVD/PVD Technician at Solestial you will be responsible for operating PECVD/PVD equipment at Solestial and will assist in transitioning PECVD/PVD processes to a new mass production line. This will include safely operating R&D equipment to run baseline production lots according to documented procedures, troubleshooting tool failures, and assisting process engineers with transferring R&D PECVD/PVD processes to large-scale manufacturing tools. For our large-scale manufacturing line, technicians will be performing operational preventative maintenance on the equipment, diagnosing and troubleshooting intermediate-level alarms, running basic quality control procedures, and working with simple hand tools and systems during floor operations.

This is an exciting position as part of a positive, supportive, and passionate team! A competitive compensation package, including equity and full benefits (see below), will be offered.

Specific Responsibilities to Include:

• Available to work Monday-Friday, 8am - 4pm.
• Operate tools and equipment safely to maintain quality and fulfill orders per direction of supervisor.
• Perform assigned job duties in accordance with training, written procedures, and with direction provided by team members and supervisor.
• Interact with equipment to monitor parameters and alarms.
• Characterize partially processed solar cells (Sinton lifetime, photoluminescence, etc.).
• Monitor process data & make decisions based on procedures to maintain process control. Collect process data and maintain a record of work at the direction of the supervisor.
• Recognize conditions that require escalation and provide good communication on issues and recommendations.
• Collaborate with the solar cell engineers on problem solving.
• Provide good communication with team members and leadership during shift changes.
• Work in a R&D manufacturing environment, often without direct supervision.
• Perform mechanical maintenance activities utilizing hand tools and measurement devices in our large-scale manufacturing line.
• Follow safety requirements and prevent accidents.
• Maintain clean work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Your Background:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Associates of Science degree or Certification in a STEM program preferred.
• Ability to work in clean room environment.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• Ability to lift heavy objects, and spend the majority of time processing production lots in an environment where sitting/standing is required for extended periods of time.
• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, clear communication.
• Positive attitude.
• A preferred candidate will have previous experience:
  • Working in a clean room environment (production or R&D)
  • PECVD / PVD Operation or other vacuum deposition techniques
  • Manufacturing Solar cell or electronics

Our Benefits:

• Competitive salary + equity - 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 impact will extend beyond our labs - supporting production of solar technology that literally goes to space.