Control Systems Engineer – AI/ML & Data Integration

First Solar Inc.; Santa Clara, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 105,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. seeks a skilled engineer to design, implement, and validate electrical control systems, PLC/HMI programming, and MES/SQL integration in Santa Clara. You will develop software tools to improve workflows and enable AI/ML adoption within production environments.

You will coordinate with international vendors, troubleshoot control systems, and ensure safe, high-quality data operations while supporting site-wide automation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Minimum education requirements with relevant technical experience as listed: PhD, MS, BS, or AS in engineering or related discipline.
• Experience in industrial automation, AI/ML driven material development, and cross-functional coordination.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with hands-on troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Design and enhance control software for process, metrology, and analytical equipment.
• Streamline database systems via administration, automation, and performance tuning.
• Develop software tools to address site-specific challenges and boost productivity.
• Coordinate small to mid-scale control projects, assist with equipment installs, and maintain electrical drawings.

Skills

Python

PLC/HMI programming

AutoCAD

SQL/SSMS

Data visualization

AI/ML concepts

Robotics systems

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional communication

Microsoft Office

Education

Ph.D. in engineering or related field

Master's degree in engineering

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Associate's degree in engineering or related field

Industrial work experience (equipment/project/software/automation/AI/ML)

Tools

Cognex Vision Systems

MES integration

SQL Server/SSMS

Job description

First Solar Inc. seeks a skilled engineer to design, implement, and validate electrical control systems, PLC/HMI programming, and MES/SQL integration in Santa Clara. You will develop software tools to improve workflows and enable AI/ML adoption within production environments.

You will coordinate with international vendors, troubleshoot control systems, and ensure safe, high-quality data operations while supporting site-wide automation initiatives.