Production Operator (Days)

First Solar, Inc.; Trinity (AL); On-site; USD 17,908 - 23,419; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking an entry-level Production Operator to safely operate equipment in the finishing end of the manufacturing process. You will train toward a Production Technician I, perform basic quality checks, and interact with factory computer systems to monitor and respond to alarms and process data.

Candidates should be able to work in a team, communicate clearly, and learn to perform preventative maintenance and data analytics as you progress.

Qualifications

• Safety procedures and good housekeeping are required.
• Ability to work in a team environment and communicate effectively.
• Fundamental computer applications knowledge.
• Willingness to learn machine controls, data, and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to safety procedures and maintain housekeeping.
• Complete training to safely operate/maintain tools and equipment.
• Interface with equipment computers to monitor parameters and alarms.
• Monitor data, escalate when needed, and report findings.
• Communicate with team during shift changes and assist with waste disposal.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety First

Team player

Written & spoken comms

Computer apps

Mobile systems

Hand tools

Measurement tools

Basic math

Data analytics

Willing to learn

Education

No diploma or experience required

Preference for pursuing manufacturing career

Job description

The Production Operator is an entry level position in the middle submodule to finishing end of the manufacturing process. The core function is to safely operate specific equipment, manage material and processes to manufacture high‑quality, photovoltaic solar modules at the required rate. Additionally, Production Operators are expected to train and gain experience toward achieving a Production Technician I promotion. Through this journey an operator will learn to perform operational preventative maintenance procedures, respond to machine alarms, perform basic quality control procedures, and interface with equipment and factory computer systems.

Education and Experience

• No diploma or experience required
• Preference for candidates interested pursuing a career in manufacturing

Required Skills/Competencies

• Safety First mindset
• Must be able to work in a team environment.
• Able to provide written and oral communication.
• Fundamental knowledge to work with different computer applications.
• Ability to use mobile systems, communication devices, and simple tool interfaces.
• Ability to use simple hand tools and measurement tools
• Basic Math skills appropriate to learn typical manufacturing production metrics
• Work in a large area of manufacturing space, often without line of site to direct supervision
• Able and willing to learn (interface with machine control panels, recognize quality, perform data analytics, troubleshoot issues and problem‑solve)

Essential Responsibilities

• Adhere to all safety procedures and practice good housekeeping.
• Complete training in the required timeframe to:
  • Safely operate and maintain tools and equipment to meet acceptable quality and productivity levels.
  • Perform job duties in accordance with training and direction provided by team leads and supervisor.
  • Perform simple maintenance on equipment in the required time with hand tools and instrumentation.
  • Interface with equipment computers to monitor parameters and alarms
  • Monitor process data & make decisions based on procedures to maintain process control
  • Recognize conditions that require escalation and provide communication on the issues
  • Collect data and provide reporting (written, oral, or via computer/devices) when requested
• Provide communication with team members and leadership during shift changes
• Ensure waste is discarded timely and appropriately
• Other duties as assigned

Reporting Relationships

• No direct reports.

Travel

• No regular travel is required outside the First Solar work site.

Estimated Pay Rate: $15/hour

US Physical Requirements

• Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day
• Will climb stairs on a frequent basis
• Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction
• Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis
• Will push or pull up to 27 pounds of force on an occasional basis
• Will push or pull up to 10 pounds of force on a frequent basis
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects repetitively on a frequent basis
• 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without correction) and the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green is required
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis
• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to; steel toed shoes, cut resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses, hearing protection)

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.