Engineer- Principal USA (Manufacturing Solutions Development)-First Solar

Job Description

Job Title: Engineer- Principal USA (Manufacturing Solutions Development)

Company: First Solar

Location: Perrysburg, OH

Pay: $109500 – 156000 per year

AI Pay Analysis:

The annual salary range of $109,500 to $156,000 for the "Engineer- Principal USA (Manufacturing Solutions Development)" role in Perrysburg, OH, translates to an hourly rate of approximately $52.64 to $75.00, assuming a 40-hour workweek. This is competitive compared to the national average for similar positions. For instance, the average salary for a Principal Manufacturing Engineer in the U.S. is around $133,016 per year (salary.com), and in Ohio, it’s approximately $158,400 per year (salary.com). Additionally, First Solar’s job listing for a similar role in Perrysburg offers a salary between $106,000 and $115,000 annually (theladders.com). Therefore, the offered salary range aligns well with industry standards for this role and location.

Job description:

First Solar reserves the right to assign a role that best matches your experience and skill set.

Basic Job Functions:

Lead process or equipment improvements under the supervision of the Area Manager or Senior Managers to achieve Manufacturing P90 metrics. Manage and guide a team of engineers and/or technicians directly or through specific projects and assignments. Collaborate with stakeholders such as Development Engineering, Global Supply Chain, and Quality & Reliability to address technical issues and develop robust manufacturing processes. Champion complex equipment and process changes by following the CMS stage-gate process and partnering with the Global Alignment Team to ensure successful implementation.

Education/Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of process engineering and/or R&D experience in a manufacturing environment is required, typically accompanied by a broad engineering and technology background.
• Proficient in statistical analysis methods and structured problem-solving; skilled in analyzing large data sets using tools such as JMP or Minitab.
• Experience in Photovoltaics Manufacturing Flow or Technology Development, particularly in Thin Film Vacuum Deposition, Glass Thermo-Mechanical Processing, Module Packaging and Structural Development, Semiconductor Processes, or Electrical Device Integration.
• Familiarity with materials analysis methods such as optical and X-ray spectroscopy, microscopy, and electrical characterization for effective troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to lead small technical teams, including goal-setting and performance management.
• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Engineering or a Physical Science field or equivalent.

Required Skills/Competencies:

• Demonstrated leadership skills in small teams within a localized environment, involving direct supervision of engineers and technicians.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with manufacturing engineering techniques and practices.
• Understanding of ISO 9000 standards and Statistical Process Control (SPC) tools.
• Strong engineering and Six Sigma expertise.
• Ability to lead the creation and enhancement of Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA).
• Proven quality assurance and technical problem-solving skills.
• Excellent data analysis and collection proficiency.
• Knowledge of MS Office suite and statistical software.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, capable of creating presentations for executive and C-level stakeholders.
• Expertise in driving projects through Change Management systems.
• Proficient in engineering test/experimental design, execution, and analysis of results.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Develop, continuously improve, and document effective solar module manufacturing processes to ensure optimal product performance in a cost-efficient manner.
• Conduct comprehensive investigations into process-related issues.
• Assess new equipment proposals against established process standards.
• Review process experiment proposals and evaluate outcomes.
• Define and implement corrective/preventive actions and continuous improvement initiatives as assigned.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and maintain high standards of housekeeping.
• Lead primarily local task forces and project teams.
• Influence decisions at the director level internationally.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to drive local-level decisions.
• Manage technical staff directly and indirectly, including senior engineers.

Reporting Relationships:

This position does not have direct reports.

Travel:

No travel is required.

Estimated Salary Range:

$109,500 – $156,000 annually.

US Physical Requirements:

• The role involves periodic sitting and standing throughout the day.
• Required to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Will involve walking, climbing stairs, and navigating equipment safely.
• The role requires reaching above shoulder height and below waist level.
• Requires manual dexterity for lifting and handling materials.
• May necessitate kneeling, bending, and effective communication abilities.
• Specific vision abilities are mandated.

Potential candidates must meet the educational and experiential requirements outlined above and excel in fulfilling the responsibilities of this role. All candidates receiving a job offer must successfully complete a background check and any additional testing as required.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the significance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. The company is committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting individuals in all job positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion drive the success of our company.

Job Posting Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:40:08 GMT

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