The opportunity
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
What you'll do
Partner with solar cell process engineering on PECVD thin films (e.g.,: passivation, anti-reflection, and related dielectric or semiconductor layers), developing materials requirements, film-property targets, and the physical understanding of how deposited films perform in the cell
Build deep technical understanding of plasma-deposited film materials: composition, hydrogen content, density, stress, optical constants, passivation quality, interfaces, and reliability; translate that understanding into clear recommendations that improve cell performance and manufacturability
Operate as the technical expert for thin-film materials: independently apply advanced materials concepts to highly complex issues, develop new characterization or evaluation methods where they do not already exist, and make high-impact materials decisions with limited tactical guidance
Set your own priorities from program needs; execute multiple complex,: multi-month materials projects in parallel (new film stacks, materials qualification, yield or reliability recovery, supplier materials) and come to leadership with solved problems and already-implemented solutions
Partner with process engineering on DOEs and process trials: define materials-relevant responses, interpret how plasma, chemistry, and hardware changes affect film properties and cell results, and recommend durable improvements
Define film material requirements, specifications, and acceptance criteria;: qualify precursors, consumables, and film stacks so materials used in production are understood, controlled, and scalable
What they're looking for
- Lead structured root cause analysis for materials-limited performance, yield,: and reliability issues (film defects, interface failure, contamination, stoichiometry, stress, delamination); correlate process history with metrology (ellipsometry, lifetime, FTIR, SEM, I-V, and related methods) and drive corrective actions to first principles
- Influence cross-functional decisions with process, equipment, quality,: production, and characterization teams; challenge assumptions that do not serve cell performance or manufacturability; create materials methods, specifications, and tools that raise the bar for others
- Identify and drive path-finding for advanced thin-film materials, stacks, or: precursor chemistries that deliver measurable gains in efficiency, reliability, or cost
- Coordinate with suppliers on precursors, consumables, and film materials to: reduce supply-chain risk and ensure long-term scalability
