Engineer- Manufacturing Technology Scaling I (Finishing)
About The Position
The Engineer- Manufacturing Technology Scaling I (Finishing) supports manufacturing technology and production operations by installing and qualifying process equipment, resolving production-line issues, and planning and executing engineering experiments in a pilot manufacturing environment. The role addresses throughput, yield, equipment, quality, and process challenges, and identifies actions to prevent recurring issues. The engineer collects and analyzes manufacturing and equipment performance data, maintains measurement systems and gauges, improves yield and product performance, and develops process documentation and controls. The position works with internal teams and supplier representatives and provides training to technicians and production associates. Domestic and international travel of approximately 5%–10% may be required between First Solar sites or to equipment suppliers.
Requirements
- Associate’s degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline and at least 3 years of First Solar technical experience, or at least 6 years of technical work experience in a manufacturing setting; alternatively, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline with 2 years of relevant technical experience or 1 year as an Associate Development Engineer or Shift Manufacturing Engineer at First Solar; or a Ph.D. in an engineering or similar technical discipline.
- Candidates using an alternate certification or experience pathway must demonstrate peer training or mentorship skills and basic data-analysis skills. Qualifying pathways include at least 3 years as a First Solar Maintenance Technician III, MET III, EPT III, or Equipment Coordinator III; a relevant journeyman certification (such as Machinist or Electrician) plus at least 5 years of industry experience at journeyman level; or at least 10 years as a highly skilled technician or specialist in a relevant discipline.
- Understand and apply statistical data analysis and execute Statistical Process Control (SPC) concepts.
- Apply structured problem-solving methods, including DMAIC, 8D, and DOE.
- Understand metrology and measurement best practices.
- Have good oral and written communication skills and the ability to write manufacturing documentation.
- Meet the stated physical requirements, including the ability to use required personal protective equipment and comply with safety standards and procedures.
- Successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required as a condition of an employment offer.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience in a semiconductor or photovoltaic R&D or manufacturing setting in one or more of the following areas: thin-film deposition (magnetron sputtering, CVD, or evaporation); thermal processing in the semiconductor or glass industry (continuous or batch ovens); wet coatings (slot-die, ink-jet, roller, or blade coating); automation (robots and AGV material handling); laser processing (scribing, cleaning, or marking); or process/device integration.
- Industry-recognized certification is strongly preferred for candidates qualifying through the highly skilled technician or specialist experience pathway.
Responsibilities
- Solve day-to-day production, equipment, and process problems.
- Follow safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.
- Install and qualify new equipment; maintain measurement systems and gauges.
- Design and execute planned process experiments, collect and analyze data, and report experimental results.
- Collect data related to daily equipment performance and associated product performance.
- Work with internal associates and supplier representatives as needed to complete assigned projects.
- Communicate cross-functionally with Operations, EHS, Development, and Controls.
- Develop and provide training for technicians and production associates.
- Identify and implement yield and product-performance improvements.
- Develop and maintain drawings and process specifications, and develop and enforce standard operating procedures.
- Develop and maintain process control plans.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
