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Engineer- Manufacturing II USA (1st Shift)

First Solar
Full Timemid
South Carolina, USPosted April 17, 2026

Job Description

Description

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

Basic Job Functions

  • Design, install, and qualify new automation/process equipment. Troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues on the production line in a timely manner. These include; tool down issues, yield, quality issues and identify actions to prevent repeat issues. Identify and/or implement system improvements that contribute to the achievement of throughput, yield and product performance goals.

Education/Experience:

  • Associates Degree in a technical discipline with 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting, or 2 years Engineering experience and 6 years Technical experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline with 2 years of experience as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer I or 3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting or 2 years Engineering experience and 3 years Technical experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • MS Degree in a technical discipline with 2-4 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • PhD Degree in a technical discipline with 0-3 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting.

Required Skills/Competencies:

  • Demonstrated Proficiency in Mechanical & Automation Equipment Design.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in generating and maintaining FMEAs.
  • Application of Value Analysis and Value Engineering (VAVE).
  • Excellent Project Lead / Project Manager skills.
  • Knowledge of Robotics / PLC / Electronics / Vision equipment.
  • Structured Problem-Solving Skills (such as DMAIC).
  • Demonstrated Proficiency in writing complete manufacturing documentation.

Preferred Skills

  • Machine / Robotic Automation experience (AGVs, Pick & Place / Collaborative Robots).
  • Process Simulation Software experience .
  • Solid Mechanical / Process Flow Aptitude.
  • Knowledge in Robotic and Conveyor Systems.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with applying Robust Engineering principles & processes.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Manages medium to large size capital equipment projects in Global environment.
  • Provides concept/layout/design details for automation & material handling process tools.
  • Process simulation modeling for existing & future production lines.
  • Continuously improves, and documents robust solar module manufacturing processes to achieve the highest product performance in a cost-efficient manner.
  • Injects manufacturing / installation requirements to new process developments by working with development team.
  • Responsible for solving day-to-day production, equipment, and process problems.
  • Evaluates, Install and Qualify new equipment.
  • Interfaces with internal associates and supplier representatives as required to complete assigned projects.
  • Develops & provide training for engineers, engineering techs, & production associates
  • Champions continuous improvement activities using six-sigma and other statistical problem-solving methods.
  • Develops Process Control Plans and Preventive Maintenance Plans.
  • Develops and maintains layout drawings, process specifications, develop and enforce standard operating procedures.
  • Performs data collection relating to daily equipment performance and associated product performance.
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.
  • Domestic and International travel required (up to 20%).
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:

  • This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:

  • 10% - 20%
  • If hired during plant start up, you will be expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training.

Estimated Salary Range:

  • $80,700 - $115,000, Annually

US Physical Requirements:

Hybrid 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 37 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 both eyes together, 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

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