Development Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

Basic Job Scope

Leading the world's sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission.

Internship Details

• Expected Length: 3-5 months encompassing Fall term (with some flexibility)
• Flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn't interfere with the essential functions of the position
• First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their university

Education & Experience

• Engineering, chemistry, or physics (Year 2+ of undergrad, or any graduate level)
• Some experience in chemistry lecture courses and at least one chemistry lab course is required
• Experience in an undergraduate research lab would be helpful
• Applicant must not have finished their degree in order to qualify

Required Skills & Competencies

• Good knowledge of physics and chemistry concepts
• Experience in collecting data from experiments
• Good communication and teamwork
• Knows how to use MS Excel

Internship Scope (Project)

The intern will interact with a team of engineers and technicians to conduct hands-on lab work related to solar panel research experiments conducted at the California Technology Center in Santa Clara, CA. The intern will help push forward experiments related to inkjet printing and spray coating of uniform thin film materials related to solar panel R&D. Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.

Pay

27.50 USD per hour - 37.50 USD per hr

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, 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, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use)