Senior Technical Sales Engineer, Photovoltaic Cells & Modules

CategoryEnergy EngineeringLocationFremont, CaliforniaRequisition ID287546TypeFull-timeJob DescriptionOur Technical Sales Engineers are deeply embedded in commercializing Tesla's advanced PV cell technology by partnering with module manufacturers and end customers to drive the adoption of our cutting-edge solar solutions. This role bridges our world-class PV cell engineering team with the global market, leading technical sales cycles for cell supply agreements and supporting downstream module sales to utility-scale developers and IPPs. You will translate complex cell-level innovations into compelling value propositions that accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy.

Job ResponsibilitiesPartnering with PV cell development and process engineers to build expertise in Tesla's cell technology roadmap, performance data, and reliability results, then translating market feedback into actionable engineering priorities Leading technical pre-sales processes with module manufacturers, including deep-dive presentations on cell technology advantages, process compatibility, cell to module performance, and reliability validation Managing full technical sales cycles for cell supply agreements, coordinating sample qualification, pilot runs, third-party testing, acceptance criteria, and long-term contracts Supporting commercial teams in securing module offtake with IPPs and developers by providing technical proposals, RFP responses, performance modeling, and energy yield analysis using PVSyst and similar tools Articulating differentiated value propositions to customers, including efficiency gains, LCOE improvements, bankability factors, and long-term performance advantages Monitoring PV technology trends, competitive dynamics, and market shifts to provide strategic insights to leadership on positioning and opportunities Representing Tesla at industry conferences and trade shows to build relationships and expand our professional network across the global solar industry Collaborating cross-functionally with Sales, Product, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Marketing, Legal, and Finance teams to align on customer requirements and drive business outcomes Traveling domestically/internationally 20-30% for customer visits, factory audits, project sites, and industry events Job RequirementsMinimum of 5 years of experience in solar PV industry combining technical expertise in PV cell or module technology with commercial/sales responsibilities Degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, related technical field, or equivalent in experience Demonstrated experience in PV cell technology, module design, or manufacturing processes including design, characterization, process integration, reliability, or applications engineering Proven track record in technical sales, business development, or pre-sales engineering selling to module manufacturers, developers, IPPs, or EPCs Knowledge of cell-to-module integration, PV system performance modeling, energy yield analysis, LCOE drivers, and industry certifications (IEC 61215/61730, UL standards) Excellent communication and presentation skills with ability to engage both technical and executive audiences Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with high attention to detail Self-starter comfortable operating in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with high ownership mentality Direct experience in PV cell manufacturing or R&D environment Familiarity with advanced cell technologies including TOPCon, HJT, back-contact, IBC, or perovskite-silicon tandem