Manufacturing NPI Manager (Engineering)

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:

Responsible to strategize, lead, and co-ordinate execution of Manufacturing resources to support various New Process change/ NPI roll-outs globally and ensure it meets the schedule and metrics defined for successful high volume manufacturing environment. In this role, the person is expected to collaborate closely with global stake holders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree with greater than 10 years of experience in manufacturing setting
• Master's Degree, or PhD in an engineering or similar technical discipline with 8-10 years of experience in manufacturing setting.
• Technical work experience in Project Management with prior engagement in New Process or Technology transfer in combination with a degree is preferred.
• Degree in any of the following fields – Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Chemical, Materials Science or Applied Physics.

Required Skills/Competencies

• Excellent ability to interact with all levels of associates and management throughout the organization.
• Possess leadership skills to lead and manage projects, which require candidates to work independently with minimum supervision, exercise judgment and discretion in problem solving to deliver to commitment.
• Demonstrated passion towards networking, innovation and risk-taking in order to achieve outstanding results.
• Advanced knowledge of semiconductor device physics, Engineering techniques and practices.
• Knowledge of MS Office applications.
• Ability to do benchmarking, data analysis, and risk management techniques to solve problems.
• Ability to assess, define and solve complex supplier and material procurement issues with minimal supervision.
• Well versed in manufacturing system and process design skills
• Well versed in Factory Physics, Operation Research
• Understanding of manufacturing engineering systems (FMEA, SPC), Technical Gap Analysis and structured problem solving methods (such as DMAIC)

Desired Skills

• Understands and demonstrates advanced project management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects at the same time and meet project deadlines.
• Ability to close projects on time with a minimal level of supervision.

Reporting Relationships

• This position has direct reports

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ensure adherence to all Safety Procedures and Housekeeping standards.
• Will sit or stand for long periods of time throughout the day.
• Required to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Will walk and climb stairs.
• Will reach over shoulder heights and below waist.
• Required to use hands to lift, handle, carry or feel.
• May be required to kneel, bend, talk and hear.
• Specific vision abilities are required.

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 is a driving force in the success of our company.