Solar Array Technician – Soldering

Solar Array Technician – Soldering Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. ABOUT THE ROLE Apex Space is seeking a Soldering Technician to perform precision soldering operations on solar array assemblies, including cell stringing, ribbon soldering, and interconnect work. You will be a critical contributor to our solar array production line, where workmanship quality directly affects spacecraft power generation performance. Responsibilities: - Perform manual soldering of solar cell strings including tab ribbon soldering, cell-to-cell interconnects, and bypass diode attachment. - Execute gull-wing and other precision solder joint formations on solar array circuit interconnects per IPC workmanship standards. - Handle ultra-thin solar cells, glass cover sheets, and silicon substrates with care to prevent micro-cracking or contamination. - Inspect solder joints visually and with optical aids; identify and disposition non-conforming joints. - Perform rework and repair of solder connections per approved rework procedures. - Maintain cleanroom protocols, ESD controls, and FOD prevention throughout all soldering operations. - Document assembly activities, rework operations, and non-conformances in production records. - Use production software and digital work instruction systems accurately. - Support the development and maintenance of assembly procedures, work instructions, and quality documentation - Contribute to the continuous improvement of assembly and integration processes, recommending and implementing efficiency enhancements and quality improvements Requirements: - U.S. Person status required (export-controlled data). - 3+ years of hands-on soldering experience in electronics, aerospace, or photovoltaic manufacturing. - Demonstrated experience with ribbon soldering, tab soldering, or solar cell stringing operations. - Experience soldering gull-wing style joints and fine-pitch interconnects. - Proven ability to handle ultra-thin glass, silicon wafers, or solar cells without damage. - Basic electrical systems knowledge including polarity and circuit fundamentals. - Exceptional hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for precision work under magnification. - Cleanroom experience or solid knowledge of cleanroom and ESD/FOD prevention protocols. - Basic material handling knowledge for fragile components and assemblies. - Good computer skills for documentation and digital work instructions. - Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with engineers and technicians - Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical information to team members and stakeholders Preferred Qualifications: - IPC-A-610 or IPC J-STD-001 certification - Prior experience in a solar array, photovoltaic, or satellite solar panel production environment. - Familiarity with automated soldering or reflow processes in addition to manual soldering. - Experience with optical inspection or microscope-based solder joint evaluation. WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at ... (truncated, view full listing at source)