Senior Perovskite R&D Leader

First Solar Inc.; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 233,000 - 332,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. is seeking an exceptionally experienced R&D leader to shape the perovskite research program at the California Technology Center. You will drive advanced materials exploration, oversee cross-functional teams, and align projects with manufacturability and IP strategy.

Reporting to the Director- California Technology Center, you will mentor researchers, set roadmap milestones, and communicate progress to senior leadership. Travel up to 25% and a focus on safety are required.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, physics or related discipline.
• 15+ years of R&D experience in thin-film solar, with 10+ years in Perovskites in an industrial R&D environment.
• 10+ years leading cross-functional efforts.
• Strong track record of innovation (publications, patents, tangible achievements).
• Strong understanding of IP management; experienced in maintaining/growing IP portfolios.
• Structured problem solving with data-driven and model-based methods.
• Skilled in leveraging internal/external resources across boundaries.
• Excellent organization, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Contributes to the R&D roadmap of perovskite research in an industrial setting with manufacturing focus.
• Champions initiatives with cross-functional teams from conception to demonstration.
• Identifies new concepts and works with legal on IP management.
• Clear communication of results to peers and management.
• Maintains safety-first mindset.

Responsibilities

• This position reports to the Director- California Technology Center or the Head- Advanced Research.
• Leads direct reports and mentors team members.
• Drives cross-functional collaboration to advance perovskite R&D projects.
• Develops and communicates milestones in the perovskite roadmap.
• Ensures IP aspects are considered in project progress and filings.
• Promotes safe, compliant lab practices and knowledge sharing.
• Travels up to 25% as required.

Skills

Cross-functional leadership

Data-driven problem solving

Effective communication

IP portfolio management

Education

PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Materials Science

PhD in Physics

Job description

First Solar Inc. is seeking an exceptionally experienced R&D leader to shape the perovskite research program at the California Technology Center. You will drive advanced materials exploration, oversee cross-functional teams, and align projects with manufacturability and IP strategy.

Reporting to the Director- California Technology Center, you will mentor researchers, set roadmap milestones, and communicate progress to senior leadership. Travel up to 25% and a focus on safety are required.