Device Research Manager

First Solar Inc.; Perrysburg (OH); On-site; USD 131,000 - 187,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. in Perrysburg, OH, seeks an experienced leader to guide CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.

You will drive innovative materials and process strategies, coordinating with engineering and operations to translate ideas into scalable manufacturing steps. The role emphasizes strong project leadership, data-driven decision making, and hands-on management of a multi-disciplinary team to deliver reliable, high-performance solar cells.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in material science, physics, or similar technical discipline. Masters/PhD preferred.
• Minimum 5 years experience in Device Development, Process Integration, or Process Development.
• Experience in semiconductor/thin film/electronics industries; PV tech preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.
• Develop and deploy manufacturable technologies and processes to improve cell performance and reliability.
• Lead technical team of engineers and technicians from feasibility through implementation.

Skills

R&D leadership

Cross-functional leadership

Project management

Data analysis

DOE and statistics

Materials characterization

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in materials science/physics

Master's or Ph.D. preferred

5+ years experience in device development

Tools

JMP

Job description

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

Basic Job Functions

• Lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.
• Develop and deploy new manufacturable technologies and processes to improve solar cell performance and reliability.
• Lead technical team of engineers and technicians through stages of new technology development from basic feasibility and understanding through process development, definition, and implementation.

Education/Experience

Bachelors in material science, physics, or similar technical discipline.

Master’s or Ph.D. is preferred.

Minimum 5 years’ experience (3 years’ experience if Masters or 2 years’ experience if Ph.D.) in a Device Development, Process Integration, or Process Development.

Semiconductor / Thin Film / Electronics Related Industry Experience.

Experience with Thin Film Photovoltaics preferred.

People and Project Management experience.

Experience in Semiconductor Industry or PV Technology Industry in the following areas is strongly preferred:

Thin Film Deposition Processes (vacuum deposition), Thermal Processes & Process Control.

Device Integration and characterization.

Material Characterization.

• Proven history of innovation in developing new technologies and processes for high-performance solar cells.
• Ability to develop, plan and manage complex and multidisciplinary R&D projects, assess technological risk, scopes, and timelines.
• Experience in thin film metrology development, device characterization and test equipment development with sufficient understanding of optical, electrical, and opto-electronic properties of photovoltaic devices.
• Fundamental understanding of material and device characterization as well as failure analysis and root cause understanding.
• Experience in thin film deposition methods and processes.
• Advanced understanding of process equipment, engineering techniques and practices.
• Ability to handle complex data, summarize, and communicate results effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to manage engineers, set-up goals and objectives and motivate others to accomplish desired results.
• Ability to coordinate activities between various engineering and operations groups. Good verbal and written communication skills are required.
• Proven competency in statistical process optimization and data analysis, including Design of Experiments (DOE), Analysis of Variance and Process Control implementation and optimization.
• Experience using statistical software (JMP preferred).
• Direct or matrix manage a team of cross functional engineers. Define specific and quantifiable objectives for each individual team member as well as for the team.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills to ensure effective co-operation of interdepartmental teams.
• Responsible for effective communication between teams, foster team building, encourage creativity.
• Effectively interface with other functional areas in support of development activities.
• Ensure adherence to program goals and schedules.
• Prioritize experiments and activities.
• Integrate material and device characteristics and process data to determine the mechanisms and root causes of failures and resulting film and device properties.
• Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and housekeeping standards.
• Develop First Solar IP portfolio by documenting inventions and supporting First Solar IP personnel in writing intellectual property and patents.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to Development Director.

Will have direct reports.

Travel

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

Estimated Salary Range

$131,200- $187,000

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 both eyes together, 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, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use.

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.

Job Info

• Job Identification 1024908
• Job Category Advanced Research
• Posting Date 06/19/2026, 12:26 PM
• Locations 28101 Cedar Park Blvd, Perrysburg, OH, 43551, US
• Job Schedule Full time
• Work Schedule M-F 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM(United States of America)