Thin Film Material Development 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, learn from failures and course correct, and own personal accountability for contributing to our mission.
Expected Length of Internship
Internship period: Fall 2026, August-December
Education/Experience
- In progress of BS degree.
- Material science or chemical engineering background preferred.
- Knowledge in material surface engineering, plasma deposition, thin film technologies.
- Experience in lab environment with materials analysis technologies.
- Perovskite solar cell device fabrication a plus.
Required Skills/Competencies
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and hands-on.
- Excellent communication, presentation and documentation skills.
- Thin film and nano material analysis experience.
- Optic and chemical characterization knowledge.
- Good knowledge of physics and material concepts.
Basic Internship Scope (Project)
Intern will work with development engineers to study plasma sputtered coatings and impact to perovskite solar device performance. May include coating process development, and sensitivity study of the process KPIs to coating properties, and interface interaction with subsequent wet coatings and solar device efficiency and stability.
Estimated Salary Range
$18.00-$25.00 Hourly.
US Physical Requirements
- Sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
- Climb stairs on an occasional basis.
- Lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis.
- 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.
- Able 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).
Potential Candidates
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.