Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer

Overview Energy is a mission-driven team committed to delivering Space Solar Energy to the world. We operate at the intersection of space infrastructure and energy abundance, providing continuous baseload power 24/7 - without seasonality or the need for batteries. Headquartered in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC area and backed by world-class investors, we are advancing the next generation of clean energy technology.

The Role

Overview Energy's Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer leads the design, development, qualification, and in-orbit performance optimization of spacecraft solar array and power generation systems from concept through end-of-life. The role blends spacecraft power subsystem engineering, structural and thermal design awareness, and hands-on test and integration work to deliver reliable, lightweight, and highly efficient photovoltaic power solutions for orbital and deep-space missions. The ideal candidate has experience with space-rated photovoltaic technologies, deployable solar array mechanisms, and spacecraft power architectures, and can own the solar array subsystem from requirements definition through flight support.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and design spacecraft solar array systems, including cell technology selection, string and panel configuration, array sizing, and interfaces

• Perform power budget development, orbital energy balance analyses, and end-of-life power predictions across mission scenarios, eclipse seasons, and pointing constraints

• Develop detailed design specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), and technical documentation for solar panels, harnessing, deployment mechanisms, and array drive assemblies using CAD and industry-standard analysis tools

• Conduct electrical, mechanical, and thermal analyses of solar array assemblies, including structural margins for launch loads, thermal gradients, degradation, and pointing performance impacts

• Support design of deployment and articulation solutions (hinges, hold-down and release mechanisms, solar array drive mechanisms), working with mechanisms and structures engineers to balance stiffness, strength, mass, and deployment reliability

• Define, plan, and execute qualification and acceptance test campaigns for solar array assemblies and subcomponents, including electrical, mechanical, environmental, and life testing

• Work with manufacturing and supply chain to ensure design-for-manufacturability, process control, and traceability of space-qualified photovoltaic materials and components

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with a focus on power or space systems

• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft power systems, spacecraft solar arrays, or closely related photovoltaic hardware for space applications (cell, module, panel, or array-level)

• Strong proficiency with CAD and analysis tools for mechanical and/or electromechanical design, plus experience with solar array sizing and performance modeling

• Experience with power system design (voltage regulation, string configuration, bypass diodes)

• Experience with rapid prototyping and hands-on electrical and mechanical assembly

• Experience in soldering techniques relevant to solar module assembly, including hand soldering, reflow methods, and cell interconnection (tabbing/stringing)

• Experience with environmental and qualification testing relevant to flight hardware (e.g., vibration, shock, thermal vacuum, radiation), including test planning and data review

• U.S. citizenship required

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Graduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering with emphasis on spacecraft power systems or space photovoltaics

• Hands-on experience with design and qualification of spacecraft solar arrays, solar array drive mechanisms, or power distribution hardware for flight programs

• Experience with lightweight, flexible solar array stackups and associated support structures

• Familiarity with space qualification and reliability standards (e.g., NASA, ECSS, MIL standards) applicable to power and structural hardware

• Experience with radiation effects on solar cells and materials, including shielding strategies and degradation modeling over mission life

Benefits

We take care of our people. In addition to competitive salary and equity, Overview Energy offers comprehensive medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage, a health and wellness stipend, 4 weeks paid time off, 2 weeks sick leave, parental leave, and 401(k) matching. Benefits are subject to change at the Company's discretion.

ITAR Requirements

This position is subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Overview Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact us at [email protected].

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often only apply for roles where they meet every listed qualification. If you believe you can succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply - even if you don't check every box.