Engineer- Development II (Reliability Physics)

First Solar (US)•Perrysburg, OH

10d•$80,700 - $115,000

About The Position

Develop predictive physical and physics-inspired phenomenological models to study and improve fabrication processes, performance, and stability of new device technologies. Design experiments to parametrize developed models and verify their accuracy and dependability. The role develops, parametrizes, and verifies models of defect chemistry and mass transport in semiconductor stacks during fabrication and field operation, along with the resulting device performance. It also assesses device design and packaging durability, uses models to optimize device architecture and fabrication processes for PV module performance and reliability, and provides data-driven recommendations to management. The position identifies opportunities to improve solar-cell efficiency, material selection, and process or equipment design; improves material-analysis and statistical-analysis techniques and experiment planning; and may determine material and equipment specifications. It collaborates with internal and external partners and customers, supports cross-functional projects, and may train, mentor, or manage junior colleagues and peers on specific subject matters. The position reports to the Senior Manager of Reliability Physics and has no direct reports. Travel is 5%–10%. The estimated salary range is $80,700–$115,000. The role requires compliance with safety procedures and the ability to wear required personal protective equipment; production-floor associates may need to wear a respirator. Candidates receiving an offer must successfully complete a background check and any other required tests.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline and 15 years of relevant technical experience, or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer I at First Solar; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline and 5 years of relevant technical experience, or 2 years as a Development Engineer I at First Solar; alternatively, a master’s degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline and 3 years of relevant technical experience, or 2 years as a Development Engineer I at First Solar; alternatively, a Ph.D. in an engineering or similar technical discipline with no prior technical work experience.
Technical expertise and innovation in one area of photovoltaic processes and/or equipment development.
Expert, hands-on experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.
In-depth knowledge in several relevant fields, such as photovoltaic device theory, materials science, process engineering, or characterization techniques.
Strong project ownership, hands-on approach, and can-do attitude.
Strong communication skills across organizations.
Knowledge of Microsoft suite of applications.
Knowledge of JMP or other statistical analysis tools.
Knowledge of MATLAB.
Knowledge of Python and/or C++.
Ability to comply with safety standards and procedures.
Ability to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry, or feel objects frequently; reach above shoulder heights and below the waist frequently; and sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
Ability to climb stairs occasionally; lift, push, or pull up to 27 pounds occasionally; and stoop, kneel, or bend occasionally.
20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including steel-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron, and arm guards. Production-floor associates may be required to wear a respirator, which requires little or no facial hair.
Successful completion of a background check and any other tests that may be required for candidates receiving an employment offer.

Responsibilities

Develop predictive physical and physics-inspired phenomenological models to study and improve fabrication processes, performance, and stability of new device technologies.
Design experiments to parametrize models and verify their accuracy and dependability.
Develop, parametrize, and verify models quantitatively describing defect chemistry and mass transport in semiconductor stacks during fabrication and field operation, as well as resulting device performance.
Assess durability of device design and packaging, including resistance to moisture ingress, electrochemical corrosion, and abnormal operating conditions.
Use developed models to optimize device architecture and fabrication processes for PV module performance and reliability.
Provide data-driven recommendations to management on changes to improve device performance and reliability.
Identify opportunities to improve solar-cell efficiency, material selection, and process or equipment design through engineering, scientific, or empirical methods.
Improve techniques for material analysis, statistical analysis of data, or execution planning of experiments.
Develop work plans for projects with unclear solution paths.
May determine and evaluate material specifications and tool or equipment specifications.
Communicate effectively with internal and external partners and customers.
Support cross-functional projects and take ownership of sub-deliverables.
May train, mentor, and manage junior colleagues and peers on specific subject matters.
Perform other duties as assigned.