R&D Program Manager – Cross-Functional Tech Projects

First Solar, Inc.; Perrysburg Township (OH); On-site; USD 91,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Program Manager to oversee complex cross-functional programs in the Research and Development domain.

You will independently develop CCPM plans and coordinate with Technology, Product Management, Manufacturing and other functions to ensure successful delivery. The role requires 5–7 years in program management and a track record in R&D environments, with strong MS Project skills and stakeholder negotiation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field required.
• MS degree in engineering preferred.
• MBA considered with technology experience.
• 5–7 years of program management experience.
• 5 years in an R&D environment preferred, especially NPIs/Process development and change management.
• 5–7 years using MS Project or equivalent tools.
• PMP or PgMP certification preferred.
• 3 years TOC/CCPM program management experience preferred.
• Strong project planning and execution skills; stakeholder coordination.

Responsibilities

• Provides program management for complex cross-functional programs within the Research and Development arena.
• Independently develops CCPM project plans and interfaces with Technology, Product Management, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality and Reliability, Supply Chain, Finance, EHS, and other departments as required.
• Builds interfaces between organizations to ensure successful hand-offs and on-time, on-budget project delivery.
• Manages program review meetings, tracks action items, and motivates program stakeholders.
• Maintains software infrastructure to keep project plans and action items up to date.

Skills

Program management

Cross-functional leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Scheduling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Electrical/Mechanical/ Chemical Engineering degree

MS degree in Engineering

MBA with technology experience

PMP or PgMP certification

Tools

MS Project

Concerto

Job description

First Solar, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Program Manager to oversee complex cross-functional programs in the Research and Development domain.

You will independently develop CCPM plans and coordinate with Technology, Product Management, Manufacturing and other functions to ensure successful delivery. The role requires 5–7 years in program management and a track record in R&D environments, with strong MS Project skills and stakeholder negotiation.