Manufacturing Engineer I - Solar
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What you'll do
- Assist in the design, development, and optimization of solar array manufacturing processes, including power module fabrication and substrate bonding, to ensure operational excellence.
- Support solar panel production line setup and troubleshooting to maintain smooth operations and minimize disruptions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (design, quality, materials, and test engineering) to identify and resolve manufacturing issues affecting solar hardware yield and reliability.
- Contribute to process documentation and standardization (work instructions, travelers, and inspection criteria) to ensure consistency and quality across solar production builds.
- Utilize CAD software to create and modify designs for manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and equipment supporting solar panel assembly.
- Conduct equipment troubleshooting and repair on solar manufacturing equipment ( e.g . SMT line, panel bonding stations) to reduce downtime and maintain productivity.
- Analyze production and yield data to identify trends, defects, and root causes, and recommend process improvements.
- Actively participate in continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) initiatives to enhance solar manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
- Support handling and processing of sensitive solar cell materials in accordance with ESD, contamination control, and safety protocols.
What they're looking for
- Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field, (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
- Typically entry-level 0 - 2 years of experience.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, systems, and engineering principles.
- Working knowledge in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to assist in process documentation and standardization.
- Ability to support production line setup and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with equipment troubleshooting and repair.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
Nice to have
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Proficiency in additional engineering software tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
- Proven track record in a space or aerospace manufacturing setting.
- In-depth understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, avionics, propulsion, and high-pressure systems.
- Demonstrated ability to create and implement processes from the ground up, with strong communication skills to engage a diverse team.
- Successful introduction of new aerospace hardware systems into manufacturing, testing, and production environments.
Summarised by NextRaise from the employer’s description, which follows in full below.
Full description from employer
Sierra Space Careers:
At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.
Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.
Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.
We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.
About the Role
The Manufacturing Engineer I supports the development and improvement of manufacturing processes for solar arrays and photovoltaic assemblies used on satellite and spacecraft platforms serving national security and commercial missions. This entry-level role assists with production line setup, process troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous improvement initiatives specific to solar cell/panel assembly, lamination, and integration processes. It requires a foundational understanding of manufacturing principles, electro-mechanical assembly, and strong problem-solving skills. This role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge space power products and a strong foundation for long-term growth in a fast-paced, mission-driven industry.About You
Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design, development, and optimization of solar array manufacturing processes, including power module fabrication and substrate bonding, to ensure operational excellence.
- Support solar panel production line setup and troubleshooting to maintain smooth operations and minimize disruptions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (design, quality, materials, and test engineering) to identify and resolve manufacturing issues affecting solar hardware yield and reliability.
- Contribute to process documentation and standardization (work instructions, travelers, and inspection criteria) to ensure consistency and quality across solar production builds.
- Utilize CAD software to create and modify designs for manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and equipment supporting solar panel assembly.
- Conduct equipment troubleshooting and repair on solar manufacturing equipment (e.g. SMT line, panel bonding stations) to reduce downtime and maintain productivity.
- Analyze production and yield data to identify trends, defects, and root causes, and recommend process improvements.
- Actively participate in continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) initiatives to enhance solar manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
- Support handling and processing of sensitive solar cell materials in accordance with ESD, contamination control, and safety protocols.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field, (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
- Typically entry-level 0 - 2 years of experience.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, systems, and engineering principles.
- Working knowledge in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to assist in process documentation and standardization.
- Ability to support production line setup and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with equipment troubleshooting and repair.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Proficiency in additional engineering software tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
- Proven track record in a space or aerospace manufacturing setting.
- In-depth understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including structures, mechanisms, avionics, propulsion, and high-pressure systems.
- Demonstrated ability to create and implement processes from the ground up, with strong communication skills to engage a diverse team.
- Successful introduction of new aerospace hardware systems into manufacturing, testing, and production environments.
- Experience in implementing AS9100 quality standards.
- Proficiency in onboarding MES, PLM, and ERP systems.
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$73,231.00 - $100,714.00Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Elevate Your Career
At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.
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