Quality Technician

Core Responsibilities

• Adhere to SOPs, safety protocols, regulatory requirements (ISO 9001), and the company’s quality/environmental policies.
• Document test results, inspection data, and non-conformities accurately in quality management systems.
• Report defects, discrepancies, or equipment issues to the QC Supervisor promptly.
• Maintain cleanliness and calibration of tools/equipment used in the assigned area.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (other departments) to address quality concerns.
• Participate in training programs to stay updated on processes, standards, and new technologies.
• Perform other quality-related duties assigned by the Quality Manager and/or Supervisor to support organizational quality objectives.

Specialized Responsibilities By Area

• Incoming Quality Control (IQC) Technician:
• Inspect incoming raw materials (e.g., silicon wafers, chemicals) to ensure they meet purchase orders and quality standards.
• Test materials (e.g., thickness, purity) using tools.
• Reject non-conforming materials and work with suppliers/procurement to resolve issues.
• Track records of incoming quality, including pass/fail rates and supplier performance.
• Outgoing Quality Control (OQC) Technician:
• Perform final checks on finished product batches to confirm they meet customer and internal standards.
• Test sample cells (e.g., efficiency, EL/PL imaging) from each production lot.
• Verify product packaging, labels, and shipping documents.
• Approve/reject batches based on results; escalate problematic lots to the QC Supervisor.
• Create quality reports for customers or internal teams.
• Reliability Testing Technician:
• Run tests on solar cells to check long-term performance and durability.
• Monitor test conditions, record data (e.g., efficiency loss), and document failures.
• Help analyze results to spot reliability trends or design flaws.
• Maintain test equipment (e.g., chambers) and ensure accurate environmental controls (temperature, humidity).
• Metrology Technician:
• Calibrate and maintain precision tools (e.g., EL/PL imagers, IV curve tracers).
• Conduct routine checks to ensure equipment accuracy and compliance with ISO 17025.
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and coordinate repairs with maintenance or vendors.
• Document calibration records and train others on proper tool use.
• In-Process Quality Control (IPQC) Technician:
• Monitor solar cell production at key stages.
• Conduct inline inspections using measuring instruments.
• Collect real-time process data and compare it to specifications.
• Alert production teams to deviations and help adjust processes to prevent defects.
• Track yield rates and identify defect trends at specific manufacturing steps.

Qualifications & Skills

• Associate’s degree in Electrical Technology, Materials Science, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 3 years in quality control within manufacturing, with preference for solar cell fabrication, semiconductor, or renewable energy industries.
• Familiarity with the specific focus area (e.g., incoming inspections) is preferred.
• Quality management certifications (e.g., ASQ Certified Quality Technician) or specialized training (e.g., metrology, reliability testing) are a plus.
• Skilled with tools/equipment specific to the assigned area (e.g., imagers for OQC).
• Basic understanding of statistical process control (SPC) and quality metrics (e.g., CPK, yield).
• Adequate understanding of technical drawings, spec sheets, and industry standards (ISO 9001).
• Proficient in office software (e.g., MS Excel for data analysis, Word for documentation).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Effective verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate cross-functionally.
• Basic problem-solving abilities to identify defects or process deviations.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, manage priorities, and follow instructions.

Working Conditions

• Primarily works in a manufacturing facility, including cleanrooms, labs or controlled-environment production areas.
• Potential exposure to low-level chemicals or equipment noise; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and required.
• This role works 12-hour shifts, which may include day, evening, or night shifts, depending on production needs.
• Occasional overtime may be needed to support production deadlines, urgent quality issue resolution, audit preparations or urgent tasks.
• May involve standing for extended periods, moving between workstations, and lifting.