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 baseload power across entire continents 24/7, without seasonality or the need for batteries. Headquartered in the 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
The health and safety of our employees and their families comes first. In addition to competitive salary and equity, we offer medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage, a health and wellness stipend, 6 weeks of paid time off, parental leave, and employer 401K matching. The Company reserves the right to modify or change these benefits at any time.
ITAR Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you 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 with Overview Energy is based on merit, competence, and qualifications, and is not influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact our Talent Team at talent@overviewenergy.com. Studies show that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often apply for jobs only if they meet all listed qualifications. We encourage anyone who believes they can succeed in this role to apply, even if they do not meet every qualification listed.