Quality Inspector, Solar Cells (Starlink)

About the role

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.

QUALITY INSPECTOR, SOLAR CELLS (STARLINK)

At SpaceX, we are building the next generation of space infrastructure to enable large-scale AI data centers in orbit. These orbital AI platforms require massive amounts of reliable, high-efficiency solar power to support intensive computing workloads in space. To make this possible, we are standing up one of the largest solar cell manufacturing facilities in the world. We are seeking a Quality Inspector to conduct visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections of solar cells at various production stages and perform final outgoing quality verification.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conduct visual, mechanical, and electrical inspections of solar cells at incoming, in-process, and final stages including checks for cracks, chips, edge quality, print defects, and layer uniformity

Operate and interpret results from metrology tools such as IV testers (AM1.5/AM0), photoluminescence (PL), electroluminescence (EL), AOI systems, and sheet resistance meters

Verify critical cell parameters including efficiency, Voc, Jsc, fill factor, thickness, and lifetime against targets

Perform final outgoing quality verification and packout inspections prior to shipment

Document inspection results, disposition nonconforming material, and support root cause analysis for quality issues

Work closely with production and engineering teams to improve yield and reduce defects

Maintain inspection records and ensure compliance with quality standards in cleanroom environments

Identify opportunities for process improvement and uphold 5S and safety requirements

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

2+ years of experience performing quality inspections in a manufacturing environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience with solar cell, semiconductor, or precision electronics inspection processes

Familiarity with optical inspection, electrical testing, and materials characterization tools

Knowledge of quality metrics such as efficiency, Voc, Jsc, fill factor, and defect classification

Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and engineering drawings

Experience with statistical process control and quality documentation systems

Strong attention to detail and ability to work effectively in ISO-classified cleanrooms

Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Experience with lock-out/tag-out, job hazard analysis, and chemical safety protocols

Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and executing digital work instructions

Demonstrated punctuality, ability to work in a high-stress environment, and flexibility to adjust priorities

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to stand for up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted, and maneuver around equipment in a factory setting

Ability to work in industrial environments with fumes/odors, noise, hazardous chemicals, and confined spaces

Must be available for one of the following AWS shifts (start and end times are approximate):

A Shift – 5:00am-5:00pm, Sunday-Wednesday

B Shift – 5:00am-5:00pm, Wednesday-Saturday

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here .

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com .