Principal/Senior PV Systems Engineer (f/m/d)
About the role:
As a Principal/Senior PV Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for the adaptation, integration, and qualification of photovoltaic technologies for space applications.
You will play a key role in the development of Dcubed's ARAQYS advanced solar array product line, enabling affordable and scalable power generation in space at unprecedented power levels.
You will operate across the full development chain, from evaluation of emerging PV technologies to their implementation as flight-ready hardware, working hands-on with real systems. The role combines device-level understanding, system engineering, and practical hardware development, ensuring that photovoltaic technologies can be reliably deployed in space environments.
Responsibilities:
Take ownership of PV-related development within ARAQYS solar array products, ensuring alignment with system requirements and mission needs
Drive the adaptation of photovoltaic technologies to space environments, identifying and addressing challenges related to radiation, thermal cycling, contamination, and long-term performance
Evaluate and mature novel and emerging PV technologies, assessing their suitability for high-power space applications and supporting their integration into ARAQYS products
Define and implement PV integration approaches, including cell interconnection, electrical architectures, and system-level implementation strategies
Design and develop prototypes, breadboards, and flight hardware, following Dcubed's fast iteration approach to validate concepts early and improve designs through testing
Plan, prepare, and execute test campaigns and qualification activities, including thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation, and lifetime testing
Support and participate in integration, assembly, and testing activities, working hands-on with hardware throughout development
Interface with PV suppliers and technology partners, defining technical requirements, supporting procurement decisions, and ensuring scalability and manufacturability
Contribute to system-level design and product architecture, working closely with mechanical, thermal, and electrical engineering teams
Maintain technical performance understanding, including BOL/EOL performance and degradation effects, and translate these into design and implementation decisions
Prepare technical documentation and participate in internal and external stakeholder meetings, supporting program execution
Candidate requirements:
Education: MS or PhD in photovoltaics, semiconductor physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field
Strong technical understanding of: photovoltaic devices and technologies, electrical behavior of solar cells and arrays, degradation mechanisms and environmental effects
Good understanding of engineering and manufacturing processes related to PV integration, including how process choices impact performance, reliability, and scalability
Proven ability to translate theoretical understanding into practical engineering solutions
Hands-on experience with hardware development, prototyping, or experimental setups
Experience working across disciplines and contributing to system-level engineering decisions
Fluent in English
Eligible to work in Germany
