Program Manager- Technology III at First Solar Inc in Santa Clara, California

Job Description:

First Solar is leading the world’s sustainable energy future. We are an exciting work environment in one of the most important industries of 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. Our cost-advantaged solar technology boasts the smallest carbon footprint, lowest life cycle water use, and fastest energy payback in the industry. We are delivering solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges including climate change, energy security, water scarcity, and the unsustainable growing consumption of natural resources. At First Solar, you will feel valued, appreciated and challenged, working side-by-side with some of the top minds in the industry. You will be regularly updated on the company’s goals, progress and achievements. First Solar maintains a culture where all associates work together to lead the world’s sustainable energy future. We believe in employee engagement, collaboration, well-being and productivity for all generations and emerging work styles.We’re changing the world. Now, let us start with yours. First Solar is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. First Solar’s policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability or any other basis protected by application country, federal, state or local laws; the company prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Basic Job Functions:   

Independently identifies leading researchers and potentially disruptive ideas at international universities, research laboratories, and startup companies. Develops collaboration and partnership strategies with external institutions. Provides Program Management for complex cross-functional programs within the Research and Development arena.  Independantly develops CCPM project plans, interfaces with Technology, Product Management, Manufacturing, Corporate Engineering, Quality and Reliability, Supply Chain, Finance, Environmental Health and Safety, and other departments as required.

Job Location and Travel Requirements:

• The work can be performed remotely, preferably from the U.S. East Coast at a place with proximity to a larger airport.


• Travel to First Solar and partner locations up to 25% is expected.


• This is a full-time position.

Experience:                

• 5 – 7 years experience in Program Management


• 5 years experience in Research and Development environment providing New Product / Process (development through roll out to high volume manufacturing) Program Management


• 5 – 7 years experience using MS Project or equivalent project management tools


• PMP or PgMP certification, preferred


• 3 years TOC/CCPM Program Management experience, preferred


• 3 years Concerto software experience, preferred

Education:

• Ph.D. in natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology, or similar) or relevant engineering discipline (electrical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or similar)


• Post-doctoral research or work experience is preferred

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated deep scientific thinking skills with a broad and deep knowledge base in physics, chemistry and renwable energy technologies


• Demonstrated project management skills in a technology development environment


• Intermediate understanding of Quality and Reliability requirements to bring new products or processes to manufacturing


• Intermediate to Advanced negotiation skills to obtain cooperation and commitment to project deliverables


• Intermediate to Advanced skills in all aspects of project planning and execution


• Intermediate proficiency in project management software – MS Project, Concerto an advantage


• Capable of providing program management of 3 to 5 projects simultaneously


• Communicates clearly, oral and written, across the organization


• Strong assertive characteristics to push projects through to completion


• Partners with stakeholders to coordinate resources, activities and priorities for rapid project completion


• Excellent inter-personal skills and ability to assertively motivate project participants

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Within the scope defined by the company’s 10-year strategic product and market orientation, identify leading researchers and potentially disruptive ideas at international universities, research laboratories, and startup companies.


• After consultation and in collaboration with functional teams at First Solar, establish sponsored research programs at select target institutions.


• Actively manage these research programs.


• Goals and resulting partnerships may change frequently due to the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the renewable-energy market.


• At least initially, the technical focus lies on hybrid-perovskite photovoltaics.


• Program Management Support for Yellowstone Program: During 2022 and 2023, actively manage select ongoing external collaborations. Proactively support the equipment vendor selection and procurement process for the new Yellowstone Ohio program.

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)