Automation Engineer
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
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.
The Role
As an Automation Engineer, you will design, develop, and support automated manufacturing equipment used to produce Solestial's next-generation solar cells and solar panels. You will work closely with Manufacturing, Process Engineering, Equipment Engineering, and Product Development teams to create reliable, scalable automation solutions that improve throughput, quality, and operational efficiency.
This role will focus on integrating motion systems, sensors, robotics, machine vision, safety systems, and manufacturing equipment into production-ready solutions. You will support both new equipment development and continuous improvement of existing production tools.
This is an on-site, hands-on role for someone who enjoys solving complex engineering challenges and building automation systems from concept through production deployment.
Your Mission
- Design, develop, integrate, and troubleshoot automated manufacturing equipment and systems.
- Develop machine architectures, control strategies, and automation solutions for solar cell and module manufacturing processes.
- Program, configure, and commission automation hardware including PLCs, motion controllers, sensors, actuators, and machine vision systems.
- Design and implement equipment safety systems and interlocks.
- Support development of robotic handling, alignment, inspection, and material transport systems.
- Collaborate with Process Engineers and Manufacturing teams to improve throughput, yield, reliability, and equipment utilization.
- Diagnose and resolve controls, electrical, mechanical, and software-related equipment issues.
- Participate in equipment design reviews, risk assessments, and root cause investigations.
- Create and maintain engineering documentation including schematics, specifications, operating procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
- Support installation, qualification, and startup of new manufacturing equipment.
- Work with external vendors and integrators to develop and deploy production systems.
- Train technicians and operators on equipment operation and troubleshooting.
- Follow safety requirements and contribute to a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.
What You Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience designing, building, commissioning, or supporting automated manufacturing equipment.
- Experience with motion control systems, sensors, machine vision, robotics, or industrial automation.
- Experience troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems.
- Ability to work across mechanical, electrical, controls, and software disciplines.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary engineering teams and independently progress equipment projects.
What Gives You an Edge
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming and industrial control systems.
- A background in robotics, machine vision, or precision positioning systems.
- Experience developing automation for semiconductor, photovoltaic, electronics, aerospace, or other advanced manufacturing industries.
- The ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams, with knowledge of industrial safety standards.
- Experience taking equipment from prototype through production deployment.
- Proficiency with CAD software, mechanical design, and PDM/PLM data management systems.
- Experience working in cleanroom 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!
Apply now
Job expired?Please let Solestial know you found this job on Rejobs. It helps us grow and get more people working in renewable energy.
Apply now
Job expired?Please let Solestial know you found this job on Rejobs. It helps us grow and get more people working in renewable energy.
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About the role
July 1, 2026
July 1, 2026
Full time
On-site
Company
- Tempe, Arizona, United States
Bachelor's degree and relevant experience in automation engineering
UTC-07:00
