Thin Film Solar Sputter Operator/Technician

Job description

Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure and actionable? Then you’ve come to the right place! E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space system that will fundamentally change the design, economics, manufacturing and service delivery associated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems. We’re intentional, we’re unapologetically curious and we’re 100% committed to innovate space-based communications and deliver actionable intelligence that will expand global economies, protect space and our planet and enhance our overall quality of life. The E-Space Manufacturing Solar Team builds the world's most advanced aerospace products. We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Thin Film Solar Sputter operator/technician to support the manufacturing of flexible thin film photovoltaic modules. This hands-on role focuses on operating, monitoring, and optimizing manufacturing and roll-to-roll (R2R) processing equipment used in the deposition and fabrication of thin-film solar layers. The ideal candidate has a strong background in web handling, process control, and thin-film sputter deposition in a cleanroom or high-tech manufacturing environment. ### What you'll be doing: - Operate and maintain roll-to-roll vacuum deposition and sputter coating systems used for thin-film production. - Monitor process parameters and equipment performance to ensure optimal web tension, alignment, film uniformity, film thickness, and composition. - Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on web-handling and deposition equipment. - Work with the team to optimize and develop new processes. - Support process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement efforts in collaboration with engineering and R&D teams. - Handle substrates and materials (e.g., substrates, targets) with care and precision in accordance with SOPs (instructions). - Document operational steps, process deviations, and maintenance activities in production logs and reports. ### What you will bring to this role: - Associate’s degree in engineering technology, Materials Science, or a related technical field, or equivalent hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment. - Minimum 2 years of experience with roll-to-roll or web-based processing equipment. - Strong understanding of web dynamics including tension control, tracking, splicing, and substrate handling. - Familiarity with magnetron sputter deposition techniques for thin films. - Expertise in vacuum, mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical systems on production tools. ### Extra points for the following: - Experience specifically with thin-film photovoltaic materials (CIGS, CdTe, a-Si, OPV, perovskites). - Knowledge of process control systems (SCADA, PLC) and data logging tools. - Previous work in pilot-scale or high-volume manufacturing of flexible electronics or photovoltaics. ### Additional Requirements This is a fast-paced, high-impact environment - flexibility to occasionally work extended hours or weekends during critical periods is expected.