Laser Process Engineer
Solestial
Company Overview
Solestial
HeadquartersTempe, AZ, United States
Founded2013
SizeApproximately 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
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 our Laser Process Engineer, you'll support the development, optimization, and scaling of laser-based manufacturing processes used to build next-generation solar cells and modules. Working closely with our Principal Laser Engineer, you'll help develop and deploy laser processing technologies while supporting day-to-day process troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts across development and production environments.
This is a hands-on role focused on laser process development, equipment troubleshooting, and manufacturing execution. You'll work across laser dicing, polymer ablation, masking, and related manufacturing processes while partnering closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Tooling, and Automation teams. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working directly with hardware, solving technical challenges, and helping transition innovative technologies from development into production.
Your Mission
- Support development of laser processing techniques for solar cell and module fabrication
- Assist in design, build, and setup of laser tooling and related mechanical systems (fixtures, chucks, alignment setups, etc.)
- Run experiments, collect data, and help refine process settings.
- Develop and improve laser equipment automation scripts used for both R&D and manufacturing
- Work in CAD to support tooling and integration design efforts
- Assist with installation, debugging, and commissioning of laser and related equipment
- Partner with automation and mechanical engineers to integrate laser systems into larger tools
- Help transition processes from R&D/pilot into production environments
- Create manufacturing documentation (SOPs, work instructions, and Process FMEAs) and support operator training
- Contribute to general lab and pilot line activities, including running builds and supporting production lots as needed
What You Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field
- 1-4 years of engineering experience (internships, co-ops, research, or industry experience included) in a hands-on technical environment
- Hands-on experience with lasers, optics, photonics, or laser-based materials processing through academic research, internships, or industry experience
- Comfortable working with hardware-building, debugging, troubleshooting, and improving physical systems
- Experience collecting and analyzing data to solve technical problems and improve process performance
- Ability to write basic logic scripts to automate equipment sequences (motion control, laser controls, I/O handling, vision systems, and calibration)
- Basic 2D and 3D CAD experience (AutoCad and SolidWorks or similar)
- Familiarity with laboratory, pilot-line, or manufacturing environments
- Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to work effectively across engineering and operations teams
What Gives You an Edge
- Experience with laser dicing, ablation, cutting, marking, welding, or other laser-based manufacturing processes
- Experience troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and process issues
- Exposure to automation systems, controls, sensors, motion systems, or machine integration
- Experience in semiconductor, solar, electronics, or other advanced 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.
See how you’re connected
View connectionsSee your contacts at Solestial on LinkedIn and tap your network when applying for this position.
Get job alerts
Get alerts for Photovoltaics jobs in Tempe, Arizona, United States
Join Talent Pool
Let clean energy employers find you
About the role
July 29, 2026
July 29, 2026
Full time
On-site
Company
- Tempe, Arizona, United States
1-4 years
UTC-07:00
