Development Engineering Technician II (Architecture)

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.

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.

Basic Job Functions:

Will drive deposition ETAs and return to production processing, sample submission for Materials Analysis to the ACT and MAD labs, conduct developmental tests, compile, and analyze test data from experiments, and review results with engineering personnel to improve efficiency and stability of solar modules. May assist in troubleshooting process issues and identifying and implementing system improvements to achieve performance goals. 

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent and 10 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
• Associate's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 3 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer Technician I at First Solar.
• Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline, without prior technical work experience.

Required Skills/Competencies:

• Experience in a high-volume manufacturing running process and or handling process issues in a technical-related industry or proven competency with running VTD process and handling process issues at First Solar
• Proven competency in sample preparation and measurement
• Intermediate knowledge of MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Access)
• Some knowledge of SQL as well as JMP or other statistical software
• Ability to use analytical skills to read charts and graphs to find trends
• Ability to apply statistical methods to analyze data
• At least 2 years of experience with sustaining/operating the VTD deposition process
• Good team player with proven track record to stay focused during tasks, pay attention to detail and be well organized with respect to task execution, sample collection, and submission.
• Ability to communicate on a regular basis with all levels of Associates.
• Excellent problem-solving ability

Essential Responsibilities:

• Applies some advanced skills to the position or specialization. May adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment, and techniques to meet the more complex requirements of the position.
• Duties and tasks are frequently non-routine. Resolves most questions and problems, and refers only the most complex issues to higher levels.
• Develops knowledge of Materials Analysis, interpretation of results, and data extraction and analysis.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute engineering tests (ETAs) on production line
• Executes planned process experiments.  Collects and analyzes data and reports experimental results. 
• Works under minimal supervision. May assist in orienting and training lower-level employees.

US Physical Requirements:

• Sit and stand periodically during the day.
• Will walk and climb stairs.
• May lift up to 50 lbs.
• Required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects.
• May stoop, crouch, talk and hear.
• Specific vision abilities are required.
• 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).           

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 band 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 is a driving force in the success of our company.