Basic Job Functions:

At First Solar, we are drastically expanding our perovskite research program. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Manager to lead our research effort on perovskites in our newly constructed research facility in Perrysburg, Ohio. This position will be an integral part of demonstrating feasibilities and advancing towards commercialization of perovskite technology. As a key member of our development team, the successful candidate will lead a technical team and actively participate in hands-on activities that include device engineering, scale up, materials research, mini-module integration and performance tests. 

Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s in engineering, physics, or similar technical discipline. Master’s or Ph.D. is preferred. Minimum 5 years’ experience (3 years’ experience if Masters or 2 years’ experience if Ph.D.) in a Device Development, Process Integration, Or Process Development. Semiconductor / Thin Film / Electronics Related Industry Preferred. Experience with photovoltaics, especially perovskites is a significant advantage. Management in the area of Device Integration or Device Development Preferred. Experience in Semiconductor Industry or PV Technology Industry in the following areas is strongly preferred: Thin Film Deposition Processes (wet coating and vacuum deposition) & Process Control  Thin Film Deposition Processes (wet coating and vacuum deposition) & Process Control Organic and inorganic chemistry Device characterization, thin film metrology and Material Characterization

Required Skills/Competencies:

Proven track record of developing new technologies and processes for high-performance solar cells, preferably perovskites solar cells. Strong leadership and project management skills with experience managing a research team.  Ability to integrate several process development activities in parallel with deep understanding of process interaction. Ability to develop, plan and manage complex and multidisciplinary R&D projects, assess technological risk, scopes, and timelines. Experience in thin film metrology development, device characterization and test equipment development with sufficient understanding of optical, electrical, and opto-electronic properties of photovoltaic devices.  Experience in thin film deposition methods and processes. Advanced understanding of process equipment, engineering techniques and practices. Fundamental understanding of material and device characterization as well as FA. Ability to handle complex data, summarize and communicate results effectively. Demonstrated ability to manage engineers, set-up goals and objectives and motivate others to accomplish desired results. Ability to coordinate activities between various engineering and operations groups. Good verbal and written communication skills are required. Proven competency in statistical process optimization and data analysis, including Design of Experiments (DOE), Analysis of Variance and Process Control implementation and optimization. Experience using statistical software (JMP preferred)

Essential Responsibilities:

Direct or matrix manage a team of cross functional engineers. Define specific and quantifiable objectives for each individual team member as well as for the team.  Lead and oversee research projects focused on new materials exploration, device engineering, scale up, PV process integration and performance tests.  Strong written and verbal communications skills to ensure effective co-operation of interdepartmental teams. Responsible for effective communication between teams, foster team building, encourage creativity and out of the box thinking. Effectively interface with other functional areas in support of development activities.   Ensure adherence to program goals and schedules. Prioritize experiments and activities.  Integrate FA, material and device characteristics and process data to determine the mechanisms and root causes of failures and resulting film and device properties. Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and housekeeping standards. Develop First Solar IP portfolio by documenting inventions and supporting First Solar IP personnel in writing intellectual property and patents. Stay abreast of the latest advancements in perovskite research, identifying and evaluating potential opportunities for innovation. Other duties as assigned. Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:

Reports to Development Director or Development Head. Will have direct reports.

Travel:

10% - 20% 

Estimated Salary Range:

$122,800 - $150,000 Annually

US 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 27 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 each eye, with or without correction is required. Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures. May reach above shoulder height and below the waist on a frequent basis. May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis. Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to, steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards) 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 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.