Material Analysis Intern (Summer 2026)

Overview

Intern learns SEM/EBSD sample prep and analysis of solar cell absorbers, presents findings.

Key Responsibilities

• engineering experiments
• ebsd analysis
• grain structure
• process parameters
• safety procedures

Tasks

-Plan, organize, and execute engineering experiments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. -Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis. -May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis. -Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift. -Will climb stairs on an occasional basis. -Adheres to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards. -Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis. -The intern will also work on EBSD analysis of the grain structure of solar cells and investigate the factors that influence the grain structure deposition. This will help us build a baseline knowledge of the PK variation(s) and processing parameters that influence grain size and orientation.

Requirements

• sem
• ebsd
• ppe
• sophomore
• office suite
• communication

What You Bring

-First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their University. Science background undergrad students prefer Material Science, Chemistry, Engineering, etc. -Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use. -Sophomore or higher level college. -Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team. -Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures. -Proven communications skills and attention to detail. -Able to work independently with minimal supervision, pay attention to detail and be results-oriented. -Hands on experience with SEM during classes. -Able to operate advanced analytical instruments and sample preparation tools after training. -Intermediate computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point, OneNote, etc.). -The intern is expected to learn all the Scanning Electron Microscopy/Electron Back-scattered Diffraction related sample preparations and measurements. They will gain hands on experience on this advanced lab equipment and perform state of art structure analysis of the absorber of solar cells. -Summer 2026 (May-August). -All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check band any other tests that may be required. -All positions in our office require interaction with people and technology while either standing or sitting. -20/40 vision in both eyes together, with or without correction, is required. -May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis. -Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel toed shoes, cut resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses, hearing protection).

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Benefits

-Leading the world’s sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission. -As an internship company, we allow flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the essential functions of the position. -$22.00-25.00 Hourly.

About First Solar

-Focuses on manufacturing advanced photovoltaic (PV) solar modules and providing utility-scale PV power plants. -Offers a range of solutions, from manufacturing to large-scale solar power projects, emphasizing sustainability. -Pioneers a closed-loop recycling process for solar panels, reducing environmental impact. -Drives clean energy transformation with integrated solutions including development, financing, and operation of solar plants.

Sector Specialisms

Security Clearance

-candidates must successfully complete a background check and any other required tests.