Device Research Manager

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: - Lead CdTe photovoltaic absorber research and development. - Develop and deploy new manufacturable technologies and processes to improve solar cell performance and reliability. - Lead technical team of engineers and technicians through stages of new technology development from basic feasibility and understanding through process development, definition, and implementation. Education/Experience: - Bachelors in material science, physics, or similar technical discipline. - Master's or Ph.D. is preferred. - Minimum 5 years' experience (3 years' experience if Masters or 2 years' experience if Ph.D.) in a Device Development, Process Integration, or Process Development. - Semiconductor / Thin Film / Electronics Related Industry Experience. - Experience with Thin Film Photovoltaics preferred. - People and Project Management experience. - Experience in Semiconductor Industry or PV Technology Industry in the following areas is strongly preferred: - Thin Film Deposition Processes (vacuum deposition), Thermal Processes & Process Control. - Device Integration and characterization. - Material Characterization. Required Skills/Competencies: - Proven history of innovation in developing new technologies and processes for high-performance solar cells. - Ability to develop, plan and manage complex and multidisciplinary R&D projects, assess technological risk, scopes, and timelines. - Experience in thin film metrology development, device characterization and test equipment development with sufficient understanding of optical, electrical, and opto-electronic properties of photovoltaic devices. - Fundamental understanding of material and device characterization as well as failure analysis and root cause understanding. - Experience in thin film deposition methods and processes. - Advanced understanding of process equipment, engineering techniques and practices. - Ability to handle complex data, summarize, and communicate results effectively. - Demonstrated ability to manage engineers, set-up goals and objectives and motivate others to accomplish desired results. - Ability to coordinate activities between various engineering and operations groups. Good verbal and written communication skills are required. - Proven competency in statistical process optimization and data analysis, including Design of Experiments (DOE), Analysis of Variance and Process Control implementation and optimization. - Experience using statistical software (JMP preferred). Essential Responsibilities: - Direct or matrix manage a team of cross functional engineers. Define specific and quantifiable objectives for each individual team member as well as for the team. - Strong written and verbal communications skills to ensure effective co-operation of interdepartmental teams. - Responsible for effective communication between teams, foster team building, encourage creativity. - Effectively interface with other functional areas in support of development activities. - Ensure adherence to program goals and schedules. - Prioritize experiments and activities. - Integrate material and device characteristics and process data to determine the mechanisms and root causes of failures and resulting film and device properties. - Ensure adherence to all safety procedures and housekeeping standards. - Develop First Solar IP portfolio by documenting inventions and supporting First Solar IP personnel in writing intellectual property and patents. - Other duties as assigned. - Job description subject to change at any time. R