Reliability Lab Technician

Job Summary:

We are currently looking for a Reliability Laboratory Technician Associate for our new factory in Columbus, Ohio. This introductory role is responsible for supporting reliability testing activities and day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including moving and staging solar modules, loading and unloading test equipment, and accurately recording test data in accordance with established procedures.

• Daily Laboratory Testing Support
  • Assist with reliability testing (e.g., I‑V, insulation, mechanical load, and environmental tests) under the direction of engineers and managers.
  • Move, lift, and stage solar modules and related materials between storage, preparation, and test areas.
  • Load and unload solar modules into test chambers, fixtures, and simulators following approved procedures and safety guidelines.
  • Perform basic preparatory work, including labeling, visual checks, and packaging of modules for testing or shipment.
• Standards Compliance & Documentation
  • Follow SOPs, work instructions, and laboratory guidelines aligned with ISO 17025 and relevant industry standards (IEC 61215, 61730).
  • Accurately record test conditions, observations, and results, ensuring data is complete and legible.
• Equipment Care & Basic Maintenance
  • Perform basic housekeeping and care of laboratory equipment, including cleaning work areas, fixtures, and test tools.
  • Support the Laboratory Manager in tracking equipment usage and logging module movements or test status.
  • Report any equipment issues, abnormalities, or safety concerns immediately to the laboratory manager or an engineer.
• Quality, Safety & Customer Support
  • Follow all safety protocols, use required personal protective equipment (PPE), and help maintain a clean, orderly, and safe laboratory environment.
  • Assist with arranging and demonstrating simple aspects of testing during internal or customer visits, as directed.
  • Support quality and reliability objectives by carefully following instructions and promptly communicating any issues or non‑conformances.
• Continuous Learning & Improvement
  • Participate in on‑the‑job training to build technical skills, understanding of reliability testing, and familiarity with solar module technology.
  • Demonstrate a desire to grow into more advanced roles within the Reliability Laboratory by taking initiative and seeking to learn new tasks.
  • Identify opportunities to improve workflow, organization, or efficiency and share suggestions with the Reliability team.
• Other Duties
  • Perform additional tasks or projects assigned by laboratory managers or engineers.

• Education & Experience
  • Associate Degree or equivalent required.
  • Experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, laboratory, or other hands‑on technical environment preferred.
  • Automotive, semiconductor, or solar industry experience is a plus.
• Technical Proficiency
  • Comfort working with basic hand tools, mechanical fixtures, and handling large components or assemblies.
  • Basic computer skills and the ability to learn simple data entry in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) or other lab systems.
  • Willingness and ability to learn laboratory testing procedures, equipment operation basics, and SOPs required.
• Skills & Abilities
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to follow written and verbal instructions consistently.
  • Physical ability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, moving, and positioning solar modules with assistance as needed.
  • Effective team communication and clear interaction with managers and coworkers.
• Work Ethic & Mindset
  • Reliability, punctuality, and commitment to safety and quality protocols.
  • High level of initiative and willingness to take ownership of assigned tasks.
  • Desire to develop and grow within the Reliability Laboratory, with potential progression to more advanced technical roles.

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer.