Development Engineering Intern (Spring & Summer 2026)

Description

• Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
• Support operations for fabrication of research scale photovoltaic devices, including non-standard processes
• Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
• Applies basic skills and may develop advanced skills using tools and equipment appropriate for the position or specialization.
• Works under daily supervision and follows standard procedures and instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.
• Support the electrical and material characterization of thin films and photovoltaic devices
• Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.

Requirements

• Duties and tasks may not be standardized. Resolves routine questions and problems and refers more complex issues to higher levels.
• Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• Working knowledge of analytical tools (UV-Vis, AFM, SEM, SIMS, XRD, XRR, ellipsometry) preferred but not mandatory.
• Basic troubleshooting skills, critical thinking, attention to detail, good communication skills, can follow SOP and work instructions.
• Must be pursuing a degree in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related STEM field.
• 20/40 vision in both eyes together, with or without correction, is required.
• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• At least junior year enrollment in an undergraduate program required.
• Hands-on experience in photovoltaic device fabrication/testing preferred but not mandatory.
• 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.
• Competency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Hands-on experience with wet chemistry processing preferred but not mandatory.
• Hands-on experience with vacuum equipment preferred but not mandatory.

Benefits

• Spring through Summer 2026 (January through August).
• $22.50-$31.25 Hourly.
• 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.
• 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.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance