Analytical Lab Development Engineer Tech II

First Solar; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking a lab technician to perform materials analysis and characterization in a fast-paced R&D environment in Santa Clara, CA. You will prepare samples, run analyses with SEM, XRD, AFM, UV-Vis, TRPL, and optical microscopes, and document observations and data trends.

The role emphasizes safety, meticulous record-keeping, and cross-functional collaboration. The position requires a mix of hands-on lab work and ability to follow SOPs, with opportunities to support equipment

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with 10 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years as Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
• Associate’s degree in engineering or similar with 3 years of relevant experience or 2 years as Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering with no prior work experience.

Responsibilities

• Execute routine and non-routine measurements using laboratory equipment.
• Maintain lab readiness with equipment checks and calibration coordination.
• Coordinate with engineers and lab users to manage priorities and data-quality concerns.
• Work under minimal supervision.
• Comply with company safety and environmental policies.

Skills

Materials analysis

Lab testing

Documentation

SOP adherence

Data interpretation

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma

Associate’s Degree (engineering or technical)

Bachelor’s Degree in engineering

Tools

SEM

XRD

AFM

UV-Vis

TRPL

Job description

First Solar is seeking a lab technician to perform materials analysis and characterization in a fast-paced R&D environment in Santa Clara, CA. You will prepare samples, run analyses with SEM, XRD, AFM, UV-Vis, TRPL, and optical microscopes, and document observations and data trends.

The role emphasizes safety, meticulous record-keeping, and cross-functional collaboration. The position requires a mix of hands-on lab work and ability to follow SOPs, with opportunities to support equipment