Laser Process Engineer

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!