Thin Film Solar Sputter Operator/Technician

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.