Project Kuiper is an initiative to increase global broadband access through a constellation of 3236 satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). Its mission is to bring fast affordable broadband to unserved and underserved communities around the world. Project Kuiper will help close the digital divide by delivering fast affordable broadband to a wide range of customers including consumers businesses government agencies and other organizations operating in places without reliable connectivity.
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We are seeking a Principal Solar Array Scientist to lead the advancement of nextgeneration solar array technologies for our Kuiper satellite constellation. This role is a unique opportunity to invent implement and influence the future of power systems in low Earth orbit (LEO).
The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in spacebased solar power systems coupled with a passion for developing costeffective scalable and durable solar solutions that rival terrestrial rooftop solar in cost efficiencywhile meeting the extreme demands of the LEO environment.
You will work closely with other senior scientists and crossfunctional teams across hardware systems and manufacturing to deliver innovations that define the future of satellite energy systems.
Key job responsibilities
Lead technical development of costeffective solar array solutions for the Kuiper satellite constellation
Develop and validate sophisticated degradation models incorporating multiple physical mechanisms and environmental factors
Design and execute groundbased testing programs that accurately simulate LEO environmental conditions
Analyze and correlate ground test data with onorbit performance data to refine prediction models
Collaborate with crossfunctional teams in materials science polymer chemistry and power systems engineering
Drive technical innovation in siliconbased space solar technologies while maintaining awareness of alternative technologies
Author technical papers and present findings at key industry conferences
Provide technical mentorship to junior scientists and engineers
Partner with external vendors and research institutions to advance solar array technology
A day in the life
Begin the day reviewing overnight data from environmental testing chambers running accelerated life tests on new module designs
Collaborate with materials scientists to analyze unexpected degradation patterns in polymer encapsulants
Refine mathematical models using Python/MATLAB to better predict power degradation trends
Meet with systems engineering team to discuss power requirements for nextgeneration satellites
Review proposals from potential silicon cell suppliers and evaluate new technology offerings
Work with test engineers to design new experiments that better replicate observed onorbit phenomena
Analyze discrepancies between ground test predictions and actual satellite performance data
PhD in Physics Materials Science Electrical Engineering or related field
10 years of experience in space solar array technology development
Deep expertise in silicon solar cell technology and solar module manufacturing processes
Strong background in materials science and polymer chemistry as applied to solar modules
Experience with environmental testing of space hardware
Proven track record of developing predictive models for complex physical systems
Excellence in data analysis and scientific computing
Strong publication record in relevant technical journals
Experience with alternative space solar technologies (multijunction thinfilm etc.
Familiarity with satellite power systems and LEO environment effects
Background in cost modeling and manufacturing process optimization
Experience with machine learning applications in degradation modeling
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Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US geographic markets. The base pay for this position ranges from $170500/year in our lowest geographic market up to $294700/year in our highest geographic market. Pay is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on jobrelated knowledge skills and experience. Amazon is a total compensation company. Dependent on the position offered equity signon payments and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package in addition to a full range of medical financial and/or other benefits. For more information please visit This position will remain posted until filled. Applicants should apply via our internal or external career site.