PVA & ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

For a leading NewSpace company developing innovative technologies for the next generation of small satellites, we are looking for a PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY & ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
The company is developing critical components for small satellites, with the goal of overcoming current limitations in spacecraft power systems and enabling continuous payload operations.
The selected candidate will join the Product Development and AIT teams, taking ownership of the development, assembly, integration and testing of photovoltaic assemblies and solar array systems for space applications.
The role combines hands-on engineering activities with design, testing and qualification, requiring a strong technical background in Photovoltaic Assembly (PVA) and electrical systems, as well as a practical approach to development and problem-solving.


Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, qualification and execution of the Photovoltaic Assembly (PVA) process;
• Design and develop jigs, fixtures and dedicated tools for the precise alignment and integration of photovoltaic cells;
• Perform non-destructive and destructive testing to validate the quality and reliability of welded and bonded joints;
• Design and analyse the electrical architecture of solar arrays, including cell stringing, diode placement and harness routing;
• Perform electrical and performance analyses under different space environmental conditions, including thermal cycles and radiation exposure;
• Develop and execute electrical test plans, including I-V (current-voltage) curve characterisation;
• Build prototypes and solar panel sections for development and validation activities;
• Plan and perform environmental testing, including Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) and vibration testing, to simulate launch and on-orbit conditions;
• Perform solar simulator and other performance tests to assess power output and overall system performance;
• Analyse test results, troubleshoot issues and contribute to the continuous improvement of the solar array design and manufacturing processes;
• Collaborate closely with the AIT and Product Development teams throughout the development and qualification phases.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of professional experience in Photovoltaic Assembly (PVA), ideally within the aerospace or space industry;
• Hands-on experience in soldering, photovoltaic cell welding and testing;
• Solid understanding of the electrical and physical properties of solar cells and solar array materials;
• Good knowledge of the effects of radiation, vacuum, space particles and thermal stresses on electrical and photovoltaic systems;
• Knowledge of relevant space industry standards and requirements related to PVA;
• Experience with CAD software for the design of solar panel layouts, fixtures and tooling;
• Practical experience with test equipment, including power supplies, multimeters and data acquisition systems;
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to interpret test data and identify technical issues;
• Fluent English.

Nice to Have

• Experience with PCB and flexible PCB design;
• Previous experience with environmental testing and qualification of space hardware;
• Experience in the development and testing of satellite power systems;
• Experience working in a NewSpace, aerospace or highly technical R&D environment.

What the company offers

• RAL between €65,000 and €75,000, depending on experience and proficiency in the role;
• Goal-oriented environment with flexible working hours;
• Possibility of occasional remote work;
• International and highly technical working environment;
• Company activities and retreats;
• Meal vouchers;
• Hands-on involvement in the design, manufacturing and testing of space-grade systems;
• The opportunity to contribute directly to the development of innovative technologies within a growing NewSpace company.

Working language: English
Location: Turin, Italy