Development Engineer III - Performance Modeling at First Solar Inc in Perrysburg, Ohio

Job Description:

Our high growth and leadership position in the renewable energy business offers outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting work environment in one of the most important industries for the 21st century. First Solar is a leader in the development and manufacturing of thin film solar modules used in grid-connected solar power plants, as well as a provider of complete solar generation solutions for U.S. utilities. Our culture is one where teamwork, continuous improvement, achievement of results, and environmental responsibility are core values. We are seeking new associates who are motivated to contribute their talents to making cost-effective solar energy an important part of the world’s energy mix.

Primary Job Functions:

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Develop and parametrize models that quantitatively describe performance and degradation mechanisms of PV modules in field conditions.


• Develop efficient accelerated life test protocols to facilitate unique model parametrization.


• Validate parametrized models with laboratory and field data. Recognize metrology gaps and drive functions in the organization to implement metrology improvements.


• Use developed models in conjunction with commercial tools for energy yield assessment, warranty analysis, and risk assessment.


• Provide data-driven recommendations to management on specific changes to improve device performance and reliability.

Required Education and Industrial Experience: 

• Master Degree in Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Material Science, Solid-State Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with at least 5 years industry experience.


• Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Material Science, Solid-State Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Required Experience:

• Strong English written and verbal communications skills to ensure effective participation with interdepartmental teams.

• Building mathematical descriptions of observed physical phenomena and utilization of numerical methods in solving complex physical problems. Familiarity with global optimization methods is a plus.


• Strong programming skills in at least one of the following: MATLAB, Python, C++.


• Strong background in semiconductor device physics and electro-optical characterization is preferred.


• Advanced data analytics and data manipulation skills are a plus.

Hybrid Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift


• Will climb stairs on an occasional basis


• Will lift, push or pull up to 27 pounds on an occasional basis


• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis


• 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required


• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures


• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis


• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis


• 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)


• All associates working on the production floor may be required to wear a respirator at any given time and thus, the ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair)

Please note: potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role.   All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check, pre-employment drug screen, and any other test that may be required for the role.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.