Senior Software Engineer (MES/PI)

Qcells North America; Cartersville (GA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Hanwha Q CELLS is seeking a Senior Software Engineer specializing in MES and Process Innovation to join the Digital Planning (DP) Team. You will own IT systems for a solar manufacturing facility, developing MES functions, integrating with ERP/PLCs, and driving real-time data analysis for process optimization.

The role emphasizes hands-on MES development, operation, and collaboration with Production, Engineering, Quality, and IT teams to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of MES solution development and operation experience.
• Korean fluency required; working-level English proficiency (reading/writing).

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary IT owner for an assigned factory, covering MES, infrastructure, and production systems.
• Monitor system health and ensure 24/7 production continuity.
• Design, develop, and implement MES functions to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Integrate MES with ERP, PLCs, AMR/AGV/OHT, and mobile robots for seamless data flow.
• Identify and implement process improvement opportunities using real-time data.
• Lead MES/PI projects with cross-functional teams and manage timelines and budgets.

Skills

MES software expertise

Java development

Database design

OPC/PLC communication

Project management

Korean language

English communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Miracom MESPlus

LG CNS EzMES

ThiraUtech OpenMES

Wonderware

Siemens SIMATIC IT

Rockwell FactoryTalk

Job description

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer specializing in MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and Process Innovation (PI) to join the Digital Planning (DP) Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full scope of IT systems at one of our four solar manufacturing factories (Ingot / Wafer / Cell / Module), serving as the primary technical point of contact for that facility. This role combines hands-on MES development and operation with process innovation initiatives aimed at optimizing manufacturing efficiency. Strong performers in this role will be considered for advancement to the Software Application Lead track.

Description

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer specializing in MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and Process Innovation (PI) to join the Digital Planning (DP) Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full scope of IT systems at one of our four solar manufacturing factories (Ingot / Wafer / Cell / Module), serving as the primary technical point of contact for that facility. This role combines hands-on MES development and operation with process innovation initiatives aimed at optimizing manufacturing efficiency. Strong performers in this role will be considered for advancement to the Software Application Lead track.

Key Responsibilities

Factory IT Systems Ownership

• Serve as the primary IT technical owner for an assigned factory, covering MES, infrastructure, and production systems.
• Monitor system health and proactively identify and resolve issues to ensure 24/7 production continuity.
• Respond to on-site emergencies based on own judgment or upon direction from the Team Lead.
• Oversee and verify hardware/software readiness for IT equipment deployments; supervise preparation and installation activities.

MES Development & Operation

• Design, develop, and implement MES functions to optimize manufacturing processes and improve production efficiency.
• Integrate MES with enterprise systems (ERP, PLCs, AMR, AGV, OHT, mobile robots) to ensure seamless data flow and process automation.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for MES applications; maintain system reliability and performance.
• Design and develop transportation logic for logistics automation.

Process Innovation (PI)

• Identify and implement process improvement and innovation opportunities within manufacturing operations.
• Utilize big data from production, process, quality, and equipment sources to analyze defects, predict failures, and optimize processes through real-time data analysis.
• Develop and implement Smart Factory solutions aligned with business objectives.

Collaboration & Documentation

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Production, Engineering, Quality, IT) to align MES and PI initiatives with business goals.
• Lead and manage MES/PI projects, ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget.
• Develop training materials and conduct training sessions for end-users.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation for MES processes and systems.
• Monitor system performance, user feedback, and industry trends to continuously improve solutions.
• Perform routine (daily, monthly, etc.) system checklists and submit reports.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• 8+ years of experience in MES solution development and operation.
• Experience in automation within high-tech industries such as solar or semiconductors.

Language

• Korean fluency required; working-level English proficiency (reading, written communication).

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in MES software (e.g., Miracom MESPlus, LG CNS EzMES, ThiraUtech OpenMES, Wonderware, Siemens SIMATIC IT, Rockwell FactoryTalk).
• Strong understanding of equipment communication protocols (SEMI standard, OPC, PLC).
• Strong knowledge and experience in developing and designing manufacturing processes and platforms.
• Proficiency in Java-based application development (front-end and back-end).
• Advanced database skills including query analysis, performance tuning, and stored procedure development (Oracle, MS-SQL).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to analyze complex data and develop actionable insights.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven experience in managing projects from inception to completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing and operating Smart Factory solutions in solar or semiconductor industries.
• Experience using middleware (e.g., TIBCO Rendezvous) for message communication.

Hanwha Q CELLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.