Description

You will manage and lead a group of engineers and technicians, either directly or through project assignments, and collaborate with stakeholders such as Development Engineering, Global Supply Chain, and Quality & Reliability to resolve technical problems and develop robust manufacturing processes.

The role requires initiating and leading complex equipment or process changes following the CMS stage‑gate process, and working with Global Alignment Team counterparts to successfully replicate those changes.

Key responsibilities include developing, continuously improving, and documenting robust solar‑module manufacturing processes to achieve high product performance cost‑effectively, conducting in‑depth investigations of process issues, evaluating new equipment, reviewing experiment proposals, and implementing corrective and preventive actions.

You will lead local task forces and project teams, influence decisions up to director level globally, work cross‑functionally, and directly or indirectly manage technical staff up to senior engineer level, while adhering to all safety and housekeeping standards.

• Lead process and equipment improvements to meet Manufacturing P90 metrics.
• Manage and mentor engineers and technicians while coordinating with cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Initiate and execute complex equipment or process changes through the CMS stage‑gate process.
• Develop, improve, and document solar‑module manufacturing processes for high performance and cost efficiency.
• Conduct root‑cause investigations, evaluate new equipment, and implement corrective/preventive actions.
• Lead local task forces, influence decisions up to director level, and manage technical staff up to senior engineer.

Requirements

A bachelor’s, master’s or PhD in an engineering discipline or physical science, plus more than eight years of process engineering or R&D experience in a manufacturing environment, is required. Candidates should be fluent with statistical analysis tools such as JMP or Minitab and have experience in photovoltaics manufacturing flow, thin‑film vacuum deposition, glass therm‑mechanical processing, module packaging, semiconductor processes, or electrical device integration.

Strong knowledge of materials analysis methods, ISO 9000 standards, SPC tools, Six Sigma, and PFMEA creation is essential, as is demonstrated leadership of small technical teams, excellent data‑analysis skills, and proficiency with the MS Office suite and statistical software.

First Solar is an equal‑opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion, and all candidates must successfully complete a background check and any required tests.

• Possess 8+ years of process engineering or R&D experience in manufacturing, preferably photovoltaics or thin‑film technologies.
• Proficient in statistical analysis tools such as JMP and Minitab for big‑data analysis.
• Experienced with materials analysis methods including optical/x‑ray spectroscopy, microscopy, and electrical characterization.
• Knowledgeable in ISO 9000 standards, SPC, Six Sigma, and PFMEA development.
• Demonstrated ability to lead small technical teams, set goals, and manage performance.
• Strong written and oral communication skills for executive‑level presentations.
• Adhere to safety procedures, wear required PPE, and meet physical requirements such as occasional lifting of 37 lb.

Benefits

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. The position will focus on leading process or equipment improvements under the oversight of the Area Manager or Senior Managers to meet Manufacturing P90 metrics.

The position has no direct reports, requires no travel, and offers an estimated salary range of $112,300‑$160,000 annually. Physical demands include occasional lifting up to 37 lb, climbing stairs, and wearing required personal protective equipment.

• Salary range: $112,300‑$160,000 annually; no travel required.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance