Solar Module Production Lead

First Solar; Gaffney (SC); On-site; USD 56,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

First Solar is seeking a production supervisor to oversee daily photovoltaic module assembly in our South Carolina facility. The role requires strong leadership, adherence to quality, and cost-efficient manufacturing practices.

Responsibilities include training, timekeeping, and record-keeping in Solar Connect and Kronos, while driving continuous improvement and safe operations. Travel 5–10% for startup training may be required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Candidate must meet one of six criteria listed.
• First Solar Supervisor/Temporary Supervisor experience is preferred.
• First Solar Team Lead /Temporary Team Lead experience is preferred.
• Two years supervisory experience in a manufacturing setting is required.
• Two years supervisory experience plus six months First Solar experience is a plus.
• Four years supervisory experience plus two years in manufacturing is an option.

Responsibilities

• Supervises daily production of Photovoltaic modules in at least one plant area.
• Directly supervises production to meet quality standards and cost efficiency.
• Coordinate on-the-job training of manufacturing associates.
• Identify training opportunities to develop and maintain a motivated team.
• Maintain associate records in Solar Connect.
• Use internal manufacturing software for production tracking (Kronos).
• Maintain accurate time keeping for manufacturing associates in Kronos.
• Maintain inventory accuracy.
• Utilize Theory of Constraints to maximize throughput.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities/teams.
• Interface with other departments and exceed customer expectations.
• Coordinate with Manufacturing Specialist and other supervisors on day-to-day issues.
• Monitor processes to ensure cycle times are met.

Skills

Communication skills

Supervisory skills

MS Office

Decision making

People skills

Organizational skills

Coater vacuum/laser knowledge

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Supervisor/Temporary Supervisor experience

Team Lead /Temporary Team Lead experience

Production Technician II or Coater Technician II experience

Two years supervisory experience in manufacturing/production setting

Two years supervisory + six months First Solar experience

Four years supervisory + two years manufacturing experience

Tools

Kronos

Solar Connect

5S system

Vacuum systems

Laser operations

Job description

First Solar is seeking a production supervisor to oversee daily photovoltaic module assembly in our South Carolina facility. The role requires strong leadership, adherence to quality, and cost-efficient manufacturing practices.

Responsibilities include training, timekeeping, and record-keeping in Solar Connect and Kronos, while driving continuous improvement and safe operations. Travel 5–10% for startup training may be required.