Manufacturing Automation Engineer I

First Solar Inc.; Perrysburg, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 69,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. is seeking an experienced Manufacturing/Automation Engineer to design, install, and qualify new automation equipment for the production line in Perrysburg, OH.

The role emphasizes data analysis, troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering and maintenance teams. Qualifications include engineering/technical degrees with several years of manufacturing experience; alternative certifications may substitute for degree requirements.

Qualifications

• Requires an engineering/technical degree with 3+ years First Solar experience or 6+ years manufacturing experience.
• Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD in engineering with no experience required; work experience preferred.
• Certifications or experience can replace degree requirements if demonstrated in mentorship and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design, install, and qualify new automation/process equipment.
• Troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues on the production line.
• Identify actions to prevent repeat issues and improve throughput/yield/performance.
• Maintain drawings, process specs, SOPs, and process control plans.
• Develop training for engineering technicians and production staff.
• Interface with internal and supplier personnel; travel as required.
• Maintain MH Metrology/Sensors/Cameras and report results.
• Ensure safety, housekeeping, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Statistical data analysis

Structured problem solving

Troubleshooting automation

Communication skills

Manufacturing documentation

FMEAs

Process simulation

DOE

SPC

Electrical & PLC knowledge

Metrology equipment

Project leadership

Robot automation

Education

Associate’s Degree in engineering or technical discipline with 3+ years First Solar experience or 6+ years manufacturing experience

Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD in engineering with no experience required

Certifications/experience in lieu of degree (training/mentorship and data analysis)

Tools

Process simulation software

Electrical & PLC controls

Metrology equipment

Job description

First Solar Inc. is seeking an experienced Manufacturing/Automation Engineer to design, install, and qualify new automation equipment for the production line in Perrysburg, OH.

The role emphasizes data analysis, troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering and maintenance teams. Qualifications include engineering/technical degrees with several years of manufacturing experience; alternative certifications may substitute for degree requirements.