Development Engineering Technician II

First Solar Inc.; Perrysburg, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. in Ohio seeks a Development Engineer to support tests, data analysis, and process improvements on the production line. You will perform quality checks, assist in DE tests, and help optimize vacuum deposition and related processes to improve efficiency and stability of solar modules.

Required are engineering-related degrees with hands-on lab experience and the ability to learn operation and maintenance of lab and process equipment. On-site work schedule applies.

Qualifications

• AS/BS/MS degree options with experience matching the level described.
• Experience: 5+ years for AS path; 1–2 years for BS; 0–1 years for MS.
• 1 year DET I experience at First Solar.
• Ability to operate, calibrate, and maintain lab and process equipment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute engineering tests on production line.
• Conduct planned process experiments and analyze data; report results.
• Oversee maintenance and train others in the process.
• Analyze work environment and suggest improvements for safety and productivity.
• Follow standard procedures and safety policies on site.

Skills

Sample testing

Device fabrication

Electrical measurements

Optical measurements

Data analysis

MS Office

SQL/JMP

Education

AS degree in engineering/physics/chemistry/electronics/materials science

BS degree in engineering/physics/chemistry/electronics/materials science

MS degree in engineering/physics/chemistry/electronics/materials science

Job description

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.

Basic Job Functions:

• Perform routine quality checks on products moving through the production line while completing all required safety checklists and operational logs to ensure continuous, compliant workflow across shifts.
• Support DE tests in the production line or perform testing.
• Use understanding of engineering & tech skills to interpret instructions into actions and experimental outcomes.
• May assist in troubleshooting tool/process issues and suggest system improvements to achieve performance goals.
• May compile and analyze test data from performed testing.
• Will conduct developmental tests, including sample fabrication and testing, compile and analyze test data from performed testing and review results with engineering personnel to improve efficiency and stability of solar modules.
• Support operation and maintenance of vacuum deposition tools.

Education/Experience:

• AS degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, electronics or materials science required with 5+ years of experience in a similar role or;
• BS degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, electronics or materials science required with 1-2 years of experience or;
• MS degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, electronics or materials science required with 0-1 years of experience.
• 1 year experience in a DET I position at First Solar.

Required Skills/Competencies:

• Ability to perform sample testing, semiconductor device fabrication and/or electrical or optical measurements.
• Ability to learn the operation, calibration, and preventative maintenance of lab and process equipment and systems.
• Intermediate knowledge in MS Office and some knowledge of SQL/JMP.
• Proven competency in sample preparation and measurement.
• Ability to learn the operation, calibration, and preventative maintenance of lab and testing equipment and systems.
• Ability to use analytical skills to read charts and graphs to find trends.
• Ability to apply statistical methods to analyze data.
• General electrical / electronic knowledge, basic knowledge of controls system (required for DETs in the design group only).
• Ability to communicate on a regular basis with all levels of associates.
• Excellent problem-solving ability.
• Execute experiments efficiently and effectively with high fidelity.
• Apply Kaizen principles by (participating in, leading, or supporting improvement initiatives, events, or problem-solving activities).
• Shows curiosity and adaptability by (responding to change, adopting new tools/processes, or supporting innovation initiatives).

Essential Responsibilities:

• Applies some advanced skills to the position or specialization. May adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment and techniques to meet the more complex requirements of the position.
• Duties and tasks are frequently non-routine. Resolves most questions and problems, and refers only the most complex issues to higher levels.
• Has ownership within his/her functional group of a particular operational process or equipment.
• Oversees maintenance and trains others in this process.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute engineering tests (ETAs) on production line.
• Executes planned process experiments.Collects and analyzes data and reports experimental results.
• Works under minimal supervision. May assist in orienting and training lower-level employees.
• May have oversight over certain areas/processes affecting the group.
• Be able to analyze work environment and make suggestions for continuous improvement for enhanced productivity, safety, or performance.
• Work under daily supervision. Follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.
• Comply with Company's Environmental, Quality, Safety or any other policies that have been enforced.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationship:

• This position reports to Development Engineer or Development Manager.
• This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:

• 0% - 5% (On occasion/as needed for training, etc.)

Estimated Salary Range:

• $23.37-$32.69 Hourly

Work Schedule:

• M-F between 8am-4:30pm

US Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
• Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
• Will lift, push, or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
• 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required.
• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards).
• All associates working on the production floor may be required to wear a respirator at any given time and thus, the ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair).

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.