Engineer- Manufacturing II USA (Mfg Solutions Development)

First Solar - Perrysburg, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Perrysburg, OH

Utilities

About the position

The Engineer - Manufacturing II at First Solar is responsible for installing and qualifying new process equipment, troubleshooting manufacturing issues, and implementing system improvements to enhance throughput, yield, and product performance in solar module manufacturing. This role requires a blend of engineering expertise and practical experience in a manufacturing environment, focusing on continuous improvement and effective communication with production teams.

Responsibilities

• Install and qualify new process equipment.
• Troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues on the production line.
• Identify and implement system improvements to achieve throughput, yield, and product performance goals.
• Develop and document robust solar module manufacturing processes.
• Inject manufacturing requirements into new process development.
• Design and execute experiments to establish manufacturing process windows.
• Evaluate, install, and qualify new equipment.
• Collect and analyze data from planned process experiments and report results.
• Maintain effective communication with production associates and manufacturing engineers.
• Develop and provide training to engineers, technicians, and production associates.
• Champion continuous improvement activities using six-sigma and other statistical methods.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Develop Process Control Plans and Preventive Maintenance Plans.
• Adhere to safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.

Requirements

• Associates Degree in a technical discipline with 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline with 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting.
• MS Degree in a technical discipline with 2-4 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting.
• PhD Degree in a technical discipline with 0-3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated proficiency in statistical data analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in metrology and measurement best practices.
• Ability to write complete manufacturing documentation.
• Understanding and application of Design of Experiments.
• Proficiency in applying Statistical Process Control and structured problem-solving methods (such as DMAIC).
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and generating FMEAs.
• Capability to train operators, technicians, and new engineers.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of deposition principles and vacuum fundamentals.
• Knowledge of general electronics.
• Knowledge in general mechanical systems.
• Proficiency in applying robust engineering principles to develop and implement processes.