Product and Technology Intern (Fall 2026)
About the Role
Leading the world’s sustainable energy future, interns at First Solar play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable energy. Opportunities are available across various departments including research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, and energy services. Interns gain hands-on, real-world experience and are challenged daily to solve meaningful problems. You’ll have the chance to explore innovative solutions, develop new skills, and contribute to impactful projects that align with our mission.
First Solar fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, encouraging team members to take smart risks, learn from setbacks, and continuously improve. Interns are expected to take ownership of their work and demonstrate accountability while working toward a cleaner energy future.
Internship duration: August 31, 2026 to November 30, 2026. Flexibility is allowed to enroll in classes while working as an intern, if it doesn’t interfere with the essential functions of the position.
Responsibilities
- Develop an understanding of the First Solar business model and technology environment.
- Participate in the co-op program and work-specific training and development.
- Perform analytical project work.
- Work collaboratively with multiple departments within First Solar.
- Participate in, or lead, meetings with First Solar staff and/or customers.
- Work with experienced professionals in the performance of responsibilities; check in regularly with assigned mentor.
- Lead a minimum of one engineering-based project with end-of-term reporting; potential topics include:
- New Product Design/Business Case Assessment
- Competitor Roadmap Benchmarking Research
- Power Plant Energy Prediction Analysis
- Present accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team upon completion of the internship.
Requirements
- Undergraduate students in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
- Overall G.P.A. greater than or equal to 3.00 (based on a 4.0 scale).
- Preference may be given to candidates available to fulfill multiple terms.
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.
- Ability to travel within the U.S.
Skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including written communication.
- Ability to work in cross-functional teams to deliver concrete project deliverables in a timely manner.
- Willingness to learn.
- Flexible and adaptable.
- Ability to identify, diagnose, and solve problems.
- Demonstrates an analytic approach to problem-solving.
- Proficient use of all Microsoft Office suite programs.
Physical Requirements
Manufacturing & Maintenance
- Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.
- Will climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis.
- Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.
- Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.
- Will push or pull up to 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
- Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.
- Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry, or feel objects on a frequent basis.
- 20/40 vision in both eyes (with or without correction) and the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green is required.
- May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
- May stoop, kneel, or bend on an occasional basis.
- Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to: steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) and is a condition of employment and continued employment (may require little or no facial hair).
Office
- All positions require interaction with people and technology while either standing or sitting.
- Must be able to communicate face-to-face and on the phone with or without reasonable accommodation.
Pay
Estimated hourly range: $22.00 - $25.00/hr.