Solar Device R&D Lead — CdTe & Process Innovation

First Solar Inc.; Perrysburg (OH); On-site; USD 131,000 - 187,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar Inc. in Perrysburg, OH, seeks an experienced leader to guide CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.

You will drive innovative materials and process strategies, coordinating with engineering and operations to translate ideas into scalable manufacturing steps. The role emphasizes strong project leadership, data-driven decision making, and hands-on management of a multi-disciplinary team to deliver reliable, high-performance solar cells.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in material science, physics, or similar technical discipline. Masters/PhD preferred.
• Minimum 5 years experience in Device Development, Process Integration, or Process Development.
• Experience in semiconductor/thin film/electronics industries; PV tech preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.
• Develop and deploy manufacturable technologies and processes to improve cell performance and reliability.
• Lead technical team of engineers and technicians from feasibility through implementation.

Skills

R&D leadership

Cross-functional leadership

Project management

Data analysis

DOE and statistics

Materials characterization

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in materials science/physics

Master's or Ph.D. preferred

5+ years experience in device development

Tools

JMP

Job description

First Solar Inc. in Perrysburg, OH, seeks an experienced leader to guide CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.

You will drive innovative materials and process strategies, coordinating with engineering and operations to translate ideas into scalable manufacturing steps. The role emphasizes strong project leadership, data-driven decision making, and hands-on management of a multi-disciplinary team to deliver reliable, high-performance solar cells.