Job Description

Basic Job Functions: 

• Assist in the installation and qualification of systems, troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues, identify and/or implement system improvements that contribute to the achievement of throughput, yield, and product performance goals. Will include supporting the operation of pilot-line equipment to define a new process followed by a transition to start-up, qualification, and implementation of the new production process with the eventual evolution into a standard production MET position. 

Education & Experience:     

• High school diploma or equivalent plus one of the following criteria:
  • 1 year of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineering Technician I.
  • 3 years of First Solar Technical experience.
  • 10 years of technical experience in a Manufacturing setting.
• Associate degree in a technical discipline plus one of the following criteria:
  • 1 year as First Solar Manufacturing Engineering Technician I.
  • 2 years First Solar Technical Experience.
  • 3 years technical experience in a Manufacturing setting.
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline.

Required Skills:

• Safety first mindset.
• Demonstrated proficiency in troubleshooting and problem solving on the manufacturing line
• Demonstrated proficiency in electrical/electronic and mechanical systems
• Demonstrated proficiency in responding to SPC alarms to bring processes back in control
• Self-directed, ability to work with minimal supervision
• Able to apply statistical tools to analyze data and provide conclusions
• Good written and oral communications skills in English
• Ability to deal with administrative as well as technical tasks

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Solve day-to-day production, equipment, and process problems.
• Identify and implement yield and product performance improvements. Develop methods to assign causes to yield excursions.
• Set up and maintain gauges.
• Ensure all processes are running on target as defined by the Process Control Plan.
• Respond to SPC process control alarms, bringing processes back into control.
• Execute planned process experiments, collect and analyze data, and report experimental results.
• Collect data relating to daily tool performance and associated product performance.
• Provide training to production associates.
• Develop and update internal documentation including drawings, standard operating procedures, and process specifications.
• Interface with internal associates and supplier representatives, as required, to complete assigned projects.
• Develop a complete understanding of area processes, equipment, and support systems.
• Provide training to production associates.
• Maintain effective communication with production associates and manufacturing engineers.
• Disposition non-conforming product according to established criteria (NCP).
• Adhere to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.
• Ensure waste materials are discarded in their designated containers.
• Ensure hazardous waste containers stay closed except when adding or removing waste.
• Ensure satellite accumulation containers stay in their designated locations.

Reporting Relationships:

• This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:

• If hiring to a new plant prior to plant start, associate will be required to spend extended time (60-80%) in another plant in either Ohio or Alabama for training until their assigned plan starts equipment installation.

Estimated Salary Range:

• $21.97 - $30.77 Hourly

US Physical Requirements:

Manufacturing & Maintenance Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.
• Will climb stairs on a frequent basis.
• Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.
• Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.
• Will push or pull up to 27 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
• Will push or pull up to 10 pounds of force 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) and the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green is required.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to; steel toed shoes, cut resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses, hearing protection).

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 and any other tests that may be required.   

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer 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 are a driving force in the success of our company.

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.