Associate Development Engineer - Laser

Responsibilities

• Design and execute tests and experiments to optimize laser processes – be extremely hands‑on.
• Plan, organize, and execute engineering experiment execution.
• Summarize experimental data and deliver monthly presentations with next steps and conclusions.
• Troubleshoot machine issues and seek process improvements to laser‑based processes.
• Coordinate installation of new equipment and upgrades to existing equipment into a development line.
• Own projects independently and provide weekly progress updates.
• Tool set‑up, optical alignment, wiring, and process optimization/development.
• Create and update equipment preventive‑maintenance plans, SOPs, work instructions, equipment specifications, and troubleshooting documentation.
• Interface with cross‑functional groups to identify, brainstorm, create, and implement equipment improvement projects.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent + 10 years relevant technical experience or 2 years as Development Engineer Technician II at First Solar.
• Associate’s Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical field + 5 years relevant technical experience or 2 years as Development Engineer Technician II at First Solar.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a similar technical discipline + 1 year relevant technical experience or 1 year as Development Engineer Technician II at First Solar.
• Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Instrumentation Engineering (preferred) – no prior technical work experience required.

Skills

• Ability to work with and train others on new projects, equipment, and operating procedures.
• Comfortable in a fast‑paced environment, meeting strict deadlines while handling multiple tasks.
• Experience with optical setups, solid‑state lasers, and familiarity with laser‑material interactions (highly preferred).
• Strong ownership of problems and their resolution.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational abilities.
• Proficient with the full Microsoft Office suite.
• Knowledge of at least one programming language (Python, C++, LabVIEW) and related project experience.
• Independent troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical issues.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and learning.
• Flexibility to work weekends or around tool downtimes; schedule flexibility during equipment installs (1–2 weeks).
• Experience with basic circuit design and components (resistors, inductors, diodes, capacitors) and familiarity with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or DIY projects.
• Ability to execute detailed plans with a strong sense of ownership.

Pay

Estimated salary range: $62,500 – $89,000 annually.

Travel

Travel requirement: 5 % – 10 % of time.

Physical Requirements

• Sit, stand, or walk short distances for the duration of a shift.
• Occasional stair climbing.
• Occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling of up to 37 lb.
• Frequent use of hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry, or feel objects.
• 20/40 vision (with or without correction) required.
• Ability to comply with all safety standards and wear required personal protective equipment (steel‑toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket/apron, arm guards; limited facial hair for respirator use).
• Frequent reaching above shoulder height and below the waist.
• Occasional stooping, kneeling, or bending.