R D Engineer Scientist
Swift SolarSan Carlos, California
Full Time
Posted October 21, 2025
$110k - $160k
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Job Description
An R&D Engineer Scientist at Swift Solar will develop and optimize thin film deposition processes, materials, and metrology techniques for high-efficiency, stable perovskite tandem solar cells, contributing to scalable manufacturing and advancing solar technology innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and optimize processes, materials, and metrology techniques for thin film layers in solar cells
- Identify shortcomings in existing device stacks and develop strategies to improve performance and stability
- Perform systematic experiments to develop scalable deposition methods and characterize materials properties
- Maintain and operate critical deposition and characterization equipment, ensuring process reproducibility
- Develop unit process specifications for materials and processes suitable for high-volume manufacturing
- Collaborate with suppliers to source, qualify, and design new materials for enhanced solar cell performance
- Translate research findings into scalable manufacturing processes for gigawatt-level production
Requirements
- Have a Ph.D. in chemistry, materials research, physics or related fields, or a Masters degree plus at least two years of directly relevant R D experience.
- Have at least 2 years of experience in thin-film deposition and characterization techniques such as XRD, XRF, PL, JV, and advanced methods.
- Be comfortable with ambiguity, and be excited to independently drive open-ended R D projects that might go beyond immediate area of expertise.
- Be proactive, hard-working, and motivated to make an impact on climate change.
- Have expert knowledge of metal halide perovskite materials and their characterization.
- Possess experience in vapor deposition of functional materials via different methods (preferred but not mandatory).
- Have experience in a thin film production environment (preferred but not mandatory).
- Have a fundamental understanding of the working principle of solar cells with a strong focus on device chemistry (preferred but not mandatory).
Benefits & Perks
Salary range: 110k-160k per year
Work schedule: Full-time
Work environment perks: 100% of monthly premiums for HMO PPO group healthcare plan options covered, 75% of dental and vision insurance premiums covered, 401(k) matching, clean commuter benefits, meaningful equity
Additional benefits: Support for attending conferences and online courses, inclusive work environment, opportunities for skill and career growth
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