Senior Technologist

Senior Technologist USA

Apply for the Senior Technologist USA role at First Solar.

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.

• Expert and visionary championing key topics in industry‑relevant perovskite research.
• Identifies optimal technology implementation solutions while considering a broad range of factors, including cost, manufacturability, reliability, sustainability, etc.

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics or related discipline.
• 15+ years of R&D experience in thin‑film solar or closely related field with 10+ years of experience with Perovskites in an industrial R&D environment.
• 10+ years’ experience in leading cross‑functional efforts.
• Strong track record of innovation (publications, patents, comparable tangible application/industrial relevant achievements).
• Strong understanding of intellectual property management; experienced in maintaining/growing IP portfolios.

• Structured problem solving, including data‑driven and model‑based methods.
• Efficient in utilizing internal and external technical resources to accelerate critical learning; skilled in soliciting support and creating strong working relations across boundaries.
• Excellent organization, communication, and collaboration skills.

• Contribute to the formulation of the R&D roadmap of perovskite research in an industrial R&D environment with a focus on manufacturing‑relevant technologies.
• Champion key initiatives working with cross‑functional teams, driving improvements from conception to demonstration.
• Identify new concepts and work with legal team on the management of the intellectual property.
• Communicate results and progress in a clear and concise manner to peers, upper management, and other cross‑functional groups.
• Act as a safety role model and ensure the team maintains a safety‑first mindset.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Job description subject to change at any time.

• Reports to the Director – California Technology Center or the Head – Advanced Research.
• Will have direct reports.

• Ability to travel up to 25%.

• $232,570–$331,500 Annually.

• Will sit, stand or walk short distances for the entire duration of a shift.
• Will climb stairs occasionally.
• Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds occasionally.
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects frequently.
• 20/40 vision in both eyes, together, with or without correction.
• Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist frequently.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend occasionally.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (e.g., steel‑toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron, arm guards, respirator where 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.

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided above and excel at completing the listed responsibilities. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.