Device Research Manager

First Solar•Perrysburg, OH

5d•Onsite

About The Position

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. This role will lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development. The primary focus is to develop and deploy new manufacturable technologies and processes to improve solar cell performance and reliability. The Device Research Manager will lead a technical team of engineers and technicians through the stages of new technology development, from basic feasibility and understanding through process development, definition, and implementation.

Requirements

Bachelors in material science, physics, or similar technical discipline.
Minimum 5 years’ experience (3 years’ experience if Masters or 2 years’ experience if Ph.D.) in a Device Development, Process Integration, or Process Development.
Semiconductor / Thin Film / Electronics Related Industry Experience.
People and Project Management experience.
Experience in thin film metrology development, device characterization and test equipment development with sufficient understanding of optical, electrical, and opto-electronic properties of photovoltaic devices.
Fundamental understanding of material and device characterization as well as failure analysis and root cause understanding.
Experience in thin film deposition methods and processes.
Advanced understanding of process equipment, engineering techniques and practices.
Ability to handle complex data, summarize, and communicate results effectively.
Demonstrated ability to manage engineers, set-up goals and objectives and motivate others to accomplish desired results.
Ability to coordinate activities between various engineering and operations groups.
Good verbal and written communication skills are required.
Proven competency in statistical process optimization and data analysis, including Design of Experiments (DOE), Analysis of Variance and Process Control implementation and optimization.
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.

Nice To Haves

Master’s or Ph.D. is preferred.
Experience with Thin Film Photovoltaics preferred.
Experience in Semiconductor Industry or PV Technology Industry in the following areas is strongly preferred: Thin Film Deposition Processes (vacuum deposition), Thermal Processes & Process Control. Device Integration and characterization. Material Characterization.
Proven history of innovation in developing new technologies and processes for high-performance solar cells.
Ability to develop, plan and manage complex and multidisciplinary R&D projects, assess technological risk, scopes, and timelines.
Experience using statistical software (JMP preferred).

Responsibilities

Lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development.
Develop and deploy new manufacturable technologies and processes to improve solar cell performance and reliability.
Lead technical team of engineers and technicians through stages of new technology development from basic feasibility and understanding through process development, definition, and implementation.
Direct or matrix manage a team of cross functional engineers.
Define specific and quantifiable objectives for each individual team member as well as for the team.
Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and housekeeping standards.
Develop First Solar IP portfolio by documenting inventions and supporting First Solar IP personnel in writing intellectual property and patents.
Other duties as assigned.