Solar Materials Research Intern

First Solar, Inc.; Perrysburg (OH); On-site; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar, Inc. is seeking an intern to support the evaluation and characterization of materials used in solar cell and module production. You will perform laboratory-scale experiments to assess material properties, collect and analyze data, and prepare reports for engineering teams.

The internship provides hands-on, real-world experience across multiple departments, with opportunities to present outcomes to leadership and contribute to a cleaner energy future.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a related sciences field.
• Experience collecting and recording experimental data in a lab setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Enrollment in a university internship program or equivalent.
• Prior lab experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support evaluation and characterization of materials used in solar cell and module production.
• Conduct laboratory-scale experiments to assess material properties (optical, thermal, UV, electrical).
• Perform data collection, analysis, and documentation to support trials and validation studies.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists to identify material performance improvements.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing results and recommendations.
• Assist with laboratory equipment upkeep and safety compliance.
• Present project outcomes to leadership at internship conclusion.

Skills

Fundamental physics

Data collection

Communication skills

Excel

Python

JMP

Education

Bachelor's degree (Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics)

Tools

Lab software

Python

JMP

Job description

First Solar, Inc. is seeking an intern to support the evaluation and characterization of materials used in solar cell and module production. You will perform laboratory-scale experiments to assess material properties, collect and analyze data, and prepare reports for engineering teams.

The internship provides hands-on, real-world experience across multiple departments, with opportunities to present outcomes to leadership and contribute to a cleaner energy future.