Solar Module Manufacturing Manager

Solar Module Manufacturing ManagerSolestial 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.As a Solar Module Manufacturing Manager, you will lead the team responsible for production of solar modules at Solestial. You will be accountable for daily operations, meeting production goals, maintaining product quality, and ensuring a safe and professional work environment. Your team will be comprised of 6–15 process engineers and technicians, and your daily duties will include scheduling and running production, leading process improvements related to scaling production, managing inventory movement, procurement of essential materials, and technician training and development.You will work in direct collaboration with manufacturing process engineers who are focused on process improvements, yield improvements, and new tool introduction. This collaboration will support transforming processes and products from the R&D teams to the production teams. As the company continues to grow and starts the transition to a new, automated, high-volume manufacturing line, you will transition to leading a team of 10–50 running high-volume production of solar modules.Your MissionPlan, execute, and lead baseline processes for pilot production buildsOptimize process steps to minimize yield lossPartner with process engineers to maintain equipment performanceDevelop and maintain standard operating procedures and documentationTransition processes to large-scale production tools as they are developedCoordinate with material vendors to support production schedulesIdentify and implement cost-reduction opportunitiesTrain technicians and future tool operatorsUphold safety standards and proactively prevent incidentsMaintain a clean and organized work environmentDevelop a strong understanding of end-to-end solar cell and module processes and design featuresWork in collaboration with other process leads to achieve required performance specifications, including efficiency, cost, and reliabilityContribute to the development of processes to scale the production of solar modules and the integration of these modules into customer developed packagesWhat You BringBachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related fields10+ years of proven experience in engineering or manufacturing roles, with a strong technical background3+ years of management experienceAbility to work in a Class 10,000 clean room environmentAbility to conduct PV cell and module processing while wearing the necessary PPEAbility to work in a dynamic environmentStrong analytical skills, including basic data analysis and presentation, with clear communicationStrong people leadership, coaching, and communication skillsCollaborative, solutions-oriented approach to working with others and solving problemsPrevious experience with photovoltaic solar modules or flexible circuits (R&D, manufacturing, reliability) is a strong plusOur BenefitsCompetitive compensation — we want you to grow with usGenerous, high-quality medical, dental, and vision coverage on day one of employment15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 paid holidays annually — with an extended holiday break at year's end401(k) with employer match up to 4% of salaryEmployer-paid short-term and long-term disability and employer-sponsored life insuranceYour work will literally go to space!