Integration Manager, Development Engineering 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:

Basic Job Functions:

• Drive the development and integration of thin film photovoltaic module innovative technologies.


• Provide technology leadership to ensure on time and on target delivery of device performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost goals.  

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Physical Science Disciplines or the equivalent.  Masters or Ph.D. is preferred.


• More than 5 years of experiences in technology development, process integration in photovoltaic, semiconductor, or related industries.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership and communication skills


• Proven competency in statistical process optimization and data analysis.  Understanding of Multivariate Analysis, Regression Analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE).


• Experience using statistical software (JMP preferred).


• Experiment planning and prioritization skills.  Ability to assess experimental risk, scopes and timelines and to plan accordingly.


• Possess excellent data handling, organization and communication skills.


• Proven ability to integrate several process development activities in parallel.


• Deep understanding of solid state device physics, thin-film polycrystalline experience highly desirable.


• Proficient in optical, electrical and opto-electronic properties of photovoltaic devices.


• Fundamental understanding of material and device characterization as well as FA.


• Advanced understanding of process equipment, engineering techniques and practices.


• Experience in thin film deposition methods and processes.


• Proven skills in problem solving and Root Cause Analysis.


• Solid understanding of processes control strategy development, implementation and optimization.


• Demonstrated ability to manage and motivate others to accomplish objectives and gain desired results.


• Ability to coordinate activities between various technology, engineering and operations groups.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Matrix Manage a team of cross functional engineers. Define specific and quantifiable objectives for each individual team member as well as for the team.


• Strong written and verbal communications skills to ensure effective co-operation of interdepartmental teams.


• Responsible for effective communication between teams, foster team building, encourage creativity and out of the box thinking.


• Interface with process engineering and equipment engineering as well as operations.


• Ensure adherence to program goals and schedules.


• Prioritize experiments in the production line and plan WIP allocation.


• Integrate FA, material and device characteristics and process data to determine the mechanisms and root causes of failures and resulting film and device properties.


• Participate in cross functional team reviews.


• Interact with stakeholders to meet manufacturing, quality and reliability requirements.


• Ensure adherence to all Safety Procedures and Housekeeping standards.


• Demonstrate creativity via novel ideas adding to the First Solar’s IP portfolio.

Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand or walk short distances for  up to 12 hours per day


• Will climb stairs on an occasional basis


• Will exert up to 50 pounds of force to lift, push or pull on a seldom basis


• Will lift, push or pull up to 27 pounds on a frequent basis


• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects repetitively 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)