Process Technician - Solar Cell Manufacturing (Night Shift)
Solestial
Company Overview
Solestial
Tempe, AZ, United States
2013
Approximately 1,100 employees (source: asu.edu). Revenue figures are not disclosed as it is a private company (source: solestial.com).
What They Do
Solestial specializes in silicon photovoltaics engineered specifically for space applications, focusing on the development of radiation-hardened solar cells, modules, and arrays designed for satellites and spacecraft (source: solestial.com). Their core technology features ultrathin, flexible silicon heterojunction solar cells that achieve efficiencies of up to 20%, with a Generation 2 product expected to be available in 2026 (source: solestial.com). These innovative cells are capable of self-annealing radiation damage at operating temperatures as low as 65°C, a significant advancement over traditional silicon cells that typically degrade in high-radiation environments (source: satnow.com). Solestial's product offerings include individual solar cells, flexible solar power modules, and complete solar arrays, all designed to meet the needs of various satellite constellations and missions (source: solestial.com). Their target markets encompass commercial satellite constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO), smallsats, CubeSats, and even lunar settlements, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional III-V multijunction cells (source: satnow.com).
Projects & Track Record
While Solestial has not yet completed any fully operational flight projects, they have secured over $7 million in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts from notable organizations such as NASA and the National Science Foundation (source: satnow.com). Recently, they were awarded a $1.2 million Direct-to-Phase II SpaceWERX contract to develop a rapidly manufacturable 1 kW solar array wing for U.S. Space Force small satellites, showcasing their innovative approach to solar technology (source: satnow.com). Ongoing projects include scaling their second-generation solar cells for flight deployments by late 2025, with production ramping to 1 MW/year through a partnership with Meyer Burger (source: solestial.com). Their key clients include EnduroSat AD, with whom they have a sales agreement for radiation-hardened modules on satellites launching in 2026, and DCUBED, with whom they debuted a new solar array product at the Space Tech Expo (source: solestial.com).
Recent Developments
In October 2025, Solestial announced a significant sales agreement with EnduroSat AD to supply radiation-hardened silicon solar power modules for next-generation satellites set to launch in 2026 (source: solestial.com). Earlier, in August 2024, they entered into a strategic manufacturing partnership with Meyer Burger, aiming to scale production to over 1 MW/year of ultra-thin cells and modules by mid-2025 (source: solestial.com). Additionally, Solestial received a $1.2 million SpaceWERX Direct-to-Phase II contract for a 1 kW smallsat solar array wing, further solidifying their position in the space solar market (source: satnow.com). The company also achieved a significant milestone when the CEA validated their low-temperature radiation-curing technology, confirming its effectiveness in self-recovery at operating temperatures (source: solestial.com).
Working There
Solestial is focused on fostering innovation-driven growth, particularly in roles related to manufacturing, research and development, engineering, and operations to support the rapid scaling of solar cell and module production at their Tempe facility (source: solestial.com). The company is actively hiring for positions at their headquarters and the newly opened Warner manufacturing plant, with a focus on mass-producing thin wafers, cell metallization, and module integration (source: solestial.com). Departments likely include solar cell engineering, module assembly, quality testing, and business development, reflecting their roots in advanced research from Arizona State University (source: asu.edu). The company culture is characterized by a dynamic growth environment and a relentless pursuit of innovation, with team members sharing a passion for solar technology and collaboration with customers (source: solestial.com). While specific benefits are not detailed in available sources, the careers section invites individuals passionate about space solar innovation to join their team (source: solestial.com).
Last updated on Feb 23, 2026 | Report an issue
As a Process Technician (Night Shift) at Solestial you will be responsible for processing ultra-thin solar cells according to baseline processes. This will include safely operating R&D equipment to run baseline solar cell production lots according to documented procedures, troubleshooting tool failures, and assisting process engineers with transferring R&D 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, 6pm-2am.
- 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 night shifts.
- 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.
- Previous experience working in a clean room environment (production or R&D) as well as experience with in solar cell or electronics manufacturing is a strong plus.
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.
Apply now
Job expired?Please let Solestial know you found this job on Rejobs. This will help us grow and get more people to work on renewable energy!
Apply now
Job expired?Please let Solestial know you found this job on Rejobs. This will help us grow and get more people to work on renewable energy!
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About the role
May 7, 2026
Full time
Company
- Tempe, Arizona, United States
Entry-level with preference for experience in clean room or solar cell manufacturing
UTC-07:00