open position description

Solar Process Engineer

SUMMARY

The primary role of the Solar Process Engineer is to design, implement and optimize manufacturing processes in support of stable, high-volume production of PV (solar) modules.

REPORTS TO: Manufacturing Director

LOCATION: Eastman Business Park, Rochester, NY

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Conduct research to develop new and improved processes for manufacturing
  • Estimate production costs
  • Evaluate processes and equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations
  • Identify equipment requirements/specifications, and select suppliers
  • Plan production line layout
  • Manage equipment delivery, commissioning, and acceptance of prototype, pilot, and production lines
  • Establish safety procedures for individuals working with the manufacturing process
  • Develop and maintain process related documents
  • Conduct tests and monitor the process performance throughout production
  • Troubleshoot problems associated with manufacturing processes, including material/hardware interactions.
  • Optimize industrial processes for stable, high-volume manufacturing

INITIAL ASSIGNMENT

  • Precision printing and coating of thin film solar modules

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

  • Experience and/or strong interest in manufacturing / production environments.
  • Knowledge of roll-to-roll processing equipment including unwinding and winding, splicing, in-line printing and coating, laminating, and other web-based processes.
  • Knowledge of automated assembly processes for discrete, single piece assembly flow.
  • Experience with lean manufacturing principles.
  • Preferred – Knowledge and experience with one of more of the following: gravure coating; slot die coating; flexo printing; laser patterning; precision fill and cure; web cutting and splicing; film laminating.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field. Master’s degree preferred.
  • Proven work experience in production-based engineering support.
  • Proven work experience in product/process start-up and scale-up.
  • Project management experience.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

  • Advanced technical skills.
  • Analytical thinker.
  • Excellent team rapport with all levels of the organization, and with external suppliers and consultants.
  • Familiarity with process simulations and standard operating procedures.
  • Familiarity with CAD / AutoCAD.
  • Familiarity with state health and safety regulations.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Bending/twisting/pulling/pushing
  • Lifting up to 40 lbs.