AI-Driven Scientific Modeling Engineer

First Solar, Inc.; Perrysburg (OH); On-site; USD 80,700 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking a highly independent computational scientist or AI-augmented research engineer to accelerate scientific learning and decision-making in R&D. The role combines physical reasoning, computation, data analysis, and AI-assisted workflows to turn observations into actionable engineering insights.

The candidate will develop models, software tools, and analytical workflows spanning materials, semiconductor devices, and energy materials, collaborating across process development,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 10 years of experience, Master’s degree and 8 years of experience, or Ph.D. and 5 years of experience in Engineering or related fields.
• Experience applying computational, physical, statistical, data-driven, or AI-enabled methods to scientific/engineering challenges.
• Alternative: 2 years as Development Engineer II at First Solar will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply machine-learning, generative AI, and physics-informed modeling to explore structure-property-performance relationships.
• Evaluate and apply AI-assisted tools to improve model development, data analysis, or engineering decisions.
• Translate hypotheses and observations into models, surrogate models, and AI-enhanced workflows to guide R&D decisions.
• Implement reusable computational tools with robust documentation and reproducibility.
• Identify uncertainties and high-value learning opportunities across programs.
• Collaborate with process development, reliability, device physics, and other teams to accelerate learning cycles.

Skills

Machine learning

AI-assisted workflows

Scientific modeling

Data analysis

Python/MATLAB/Julia

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

PhD

Tools

Python

Julia

C++

MATLAB

C#

Job description

First Solar is seeking a highly independent computational scientist or AI-augmented research engineer to accelerate scientific learning and decision-making in R&D. The role combines physical reasoning, computation, data analysis, and AI-assisted workflows to turn observations into actionable engineering insights.

The candidate will develop models, software tools, and analytical workflows spanning materials, semiconductor devices, and energy materials, collaborating across process development,