Production Operator USA (C Crew / PM Shift)

First Solar Inc.; New Iberia, Northern (LA, KY); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar in New Iberia, LA is seeking a Production Operator for its Finishing area. This entry-level role focuses on safe operation of equipment and processes to manufacture high-quality photovoltaic modules at the required rate.

You will perform basic quality checks, respond to machine alarms, collect data, and support shift-work with teamwork while following all safety procedures and good housekeeping practices.

Qualifications

• Safety first mindset and ability to work in a team.
• Basic problem solving and critical thinking skills.
• Basic reading, writing, and math abilities.
• Ability to use mobile systems and simple tool interfaces.
• Interface with machine control panels and recognize quality.
• Adhere to all safety procedures and maintain housekeeping.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment safely in the Finishing area to meet throughput targets.
• Perform basic quality control procedures and data collection.
• Respond to tool alarms and escalate issues when needed.
• Interface with factory computer systems and document results.
• Maintain inventory and ensure proper waste disposal and housekeeping.

Skills

Safety mindset

Team collaboration

Basic problem solving

Reading/writing/math basics

Data analytics (basic)

Machine operation awareness

Job description

Job Description

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

Basic Job Functions:

The Production Operator is the entry-level position for solar panel manufacturing at First Solar. The assigned area will be limited to our Finishing operation within the plant. The Production Operator is responsible for safe operation of specific equipment, materials, and processes to manufacture high-quality photovoltaic solar modules at the required rate is the core function. The Production Operator performs operational preventative maintenance procedures, responds to machine alarms, performs basic quality control procedures, and interfaces with equipment and factory computer systems.

Education/Experience:

• No diploma or experience required.


• Safety First mindset.


• Must be able to work in a team environment.


• Basic problem solving and critical thinking skills.


• Basic reading, writing, and math skills.


• Ability to use mobile systems, communication devices, and simple tool interfaces.


• Ability to interface with machine control panels, recognize quality, perform data analytics, troubleshoot issues, and problem-solve.


• Adheres to all safety procedures and practices good housekeeping.


• Performs assigned job duties in accordance with all written work instructions and procedures.


• Works in a large manufacturing space, often without line-of-sight to direct supervision.


• Performs simple maintenance on equipment in the required time with hand tools and instrumentation.


• Safely operates and maintains tools and equipment used to manufacture solar modules at acceptable quality and throughput levels per control plan.


• Ensures proper inventory levels of materials and parts at point of use.


• Monitors process data and makes decisions based on procedures to maintain process control.


• Loads or unloads photovoltaic modules as needed to support line rate, isolate quality issues, or as otherwise instructed. Properly identifies modules removed from line.


• Responds to tool alarms or non-standard conditions per work instruction and escalates issues that cannot be fixed immediately.


• Collects data and provides reporting (written, oral, or via computer/devices) when requested.


• Provides communication with team members and leadership during shift changes.


• Ensures waste materials are discarded in their designated containers and containers properly sealed.


• Job description subject to change at any time.


• Other duties as assigned.

Reporting Relationships:

Travel:

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

Estimated Salary Range:

• $15.00 Hourly, 5%

US Physical Requirements:

Manufacturing & Maintenance Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.


• Will climb stairs or steps 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 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.


• Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.


• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.


• 20/40 vision in each eye separately and both eyes (with or without correction), the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green and peripheral vision >70 degrees 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 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 or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) asa 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 are a driving force in the success of our company.

Job Info

• Job Identification 1024416


• Job Category Plant MFG Operations


• Posting Date 06/22/2026, 06:06 PM


• Locations 1400 Corporate Drive, New Iberia, LA, 70560, US