Lead Solar Array Engineer

Lead Solar Array Engineer

Loudoun County, VA / DMV Area

Our client an exciting Space company are looking for a Spacecraft Solar Array Engineer to lead 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.

What you’ll be doing:

Lead the design and architecture of spacecraft solar array systems, including cell selection, panel configuration, and array sizing

Develop power budgets and perform orbital energy balance and end-of-life performance analysis

Define detailed specifications, ICDs, and technical documentation for solar array assemblies and subsystems

Perform electrical, thermal, and structural analysis to ensure performance across launch and on-orbit conditions

Support the design of deployment and articulation mechanisms alongside structures and mechanisms teams

Plan and execute qualification and environmental testing, including vibration, thermal vacuum, and life testing

Work closely with manufacturing and supply chain to ensure quality, traceability, and scalability of flight hardware

What we’re looking for:

5+ years of experience in spacecraft power systems, solar arrays, or space-based photovoltaic hardware

Strong understanding of solar array design, including string configuration, voltage regulation, and performance modelling

Experience with CAD and engineering analysis tools across electrical or electromechanical systems

Hands-on experience with prototyping, assembly, and test of hardware

Familiarity with environmental testing for space hardware such as vibration, thermal, and radiation

Practical experience with soldering and solar cell interconnection techniques

Nice to have:

Experience designing or qualifying flight solar arrays or deployable systems

Knowledge of space standards such as NASA, ECSS, or MIL

Experience with flexible or lightweight solar array technologies

Understanding of radiation effects and long-term degradation of solar cells