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Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Monitor various stages of the solar panel manufacturing process, including cell assembly, lamination, framing, and testing, to identify any defects or deviations. * Perform electrical and mechanical ...

Material Handler - Night Shift

Pataskala, OH · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from ourcutting-edgefacility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint ventureestablishedby two global ...

Material Handler - Weekend Shift

Pataskala, OH · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere. This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We ...

New

PR · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

The Warehouse Team Lead is responsible for supporting daily warehouse operations within the solar panel manufacturing facility by coordinating warehouse activities, assisting team members, and ...

Our average entry-level solar installer sees wages grow 10-20%+ over their first year with us, as ... Ability to safely handle tools and materials such as: ladders, inverters, solar panels, panel ...

PR · On-site

... solar panel manufacturing facility. This role ensures efficient material flow to support lean and just-in-time (JIT) production while maintaining inventory accuracy, safety compliance, and ...

Our average entry-level solar installer sees wages grow 10-20%+ over their first year with us, as ... Ability to safely handle tools and materials such as: ladders, inverters, solar panels, panel ...

Solar PV Installer

Newtown, PA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Our average entry-level solar installer sees wages grow 10-20%+ over their first year with us, as ... Ability to safely handle tools and materials such as: ladders, inverters, solar panels, panel ...

Rooftop Solar Installer

Newtown, PA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Our average entry-level solar installer sees wages grow 10-20%+ over their first year with us, as ... Ability to safely handle tools and materials such as: ladders, inverters, solar panels, panel ...

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global ...

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Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing information

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How much do entry level solar panel manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level solar panel manufacturing in the United States is $24.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into solar with no experience?

Entry level solar panel manufacturing jobs often require minimal experience and focus on basic assembly, safety protocols, and teamwork. Gaining relevant skills through online courses or certifications in solar technology can improve your chances, and being willing to learn on the job is important. Physical fitness and attention to detail are also valuable in this field.

What is the starting pay at First solar?

The starting pay for entry-level solar panel manufacturing positions at First Solar typically ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, depending on location and experience. These roles often require basic technical skills and may include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

How to get into the solar panel manufacturing industry?

Entry level solar panel manufacturing jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve on-the-job training. Relevant skills include basic mechanical or electrical knowledge, familiarity with manufacturing equipment, and attention to safety protocols; certifications in electrical or manufacturing safety can be advantageous.

What is the difference between Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing vs Entry Level Solar Panel Installation?

AspectEntry Level Solar Panel ManufacturingEntry Level Solar Panel Installation
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentFactories or manufacturing plants; indoor, assembly line settingOn-site at installation locations; outdoor, variable weather conditions
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers producing solar panels; industrial settingsConstruction companies, solar installation firms; renewable energy sector

Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing involves assembling and producing solar panels in factory settings, focusing on technical skills and factory safety. In contrast, Entry Level Solar Panel Installation requires on-site work installing solar systems, emphasizing safety and physical skills. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ mainly in work environment and job functions.

What is the 20% rule for solar panels?

The 20% rule in solar panel manufacturing refers to a quality control guideline where no more than 20% of the panels produced should have defects or fail testing to ensure product reliability. Entry level workers may assist in inspection processes, helping to identify and sort panels that meet quality standards based on this rule.
More about Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs? The most popular types of Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Solar Panel Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% As Needed, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,953 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Quality Inspector

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct detailed inspections of incoming raw materials and solar panel components to ensure compliance with quality standards.

  • Monitor and test various stages of the solar panel manufacturing process to identify defects or deviations from quality requirements.

  • Maintain accurate records of inspection results, testing data, and corrective actions taken, and prepare reports summarizing quality performance.


Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 521 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 76176
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Our Solar business delivers industry leading, U.S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, leveraging our leadership in advanced manufacturing to serve growing energy demand. You will be a part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.
Purpose of the Role:
The Quality Control Inspector is responsible for ensuring that products meet established quality standards before they are delivered to customers. Their primary role is to inspect, test, and monitor various aspects of the manufacturing process to identify defects or deviations from quality requirements.
Key responsibilities:
  • Conduct detailed inspections of incoming raw materials such as solar cells, glass, frames, and other components to ensure compliance with quality standards.
  • Monitor various stages of the solar panel manufacturing process, including cell assembly, lamination, framing, and testing, to identify any defects or deviations.
  • Perform electrical and mechanical tests on solar panels to verify performance and adherence to specification, analyze test results and report any anomalies.
  • Conduct visual inspections of solar panels for cosmetic defects, ensuring that the appearance meets quality standards.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of inspection results, testing data, and any corrective actions taken, prepare reports summarizing quality performance.
  • Ensure that testing equipment is properly calibrated and maintained, perform regular checks on equipment to guarantee accuracy.
  • Investigate and identify the root causes of quality issues and work collaboratively with production and engineering teams to implement corrective actions.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the solar panel manufacturing process.
  • Keeping up with company standards, regulations, and certifications related to solar panel manufacturing, ensure compliance with relevant quality and safety requirements.
  • Provide training to production staff on quality control processes, standards, and best practices.
  • Work closely with production teams and engineers to address quality issues and implement improvements.

PQC VS OQA:
(OQA) - Summary
Review and inspect shipped modules, address quality issues, and support customer loading supervision. Participate in process improvements and cross-departmental initiatives. Schedule: Monday-Friday, with travel between Tolleson, Surprise, and Waddell warehouses.
(PQC)- Summary
Perform process inspections to ensure product quality meets customer requirements, identify and report non-conformities, and assist with new product or material introductions. Maintain inspection instruments, record quality data, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Schedule: 12 hour shifts 3-4 days per week alternating.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum 1-2 years of quality inspection experience in a manufacturing environment (solar or electronics industry preferred).
  • Experience with inspection tools, testing equipment, and quality control documentation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Engaged in photovoltaic quality management for at least 1 year, familiar with customer factory inspection and system audit, with strong management and communication skills familiar with the corresponding standards and requirements for photovoltaic product manufacturing and certification.
  • Proficient in Microsoft; MES software.
  • Proficient in 7 QC methods.
  • Familiar with customer factory inspections and system audits.
  • Experience in ISO 9000 System.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Attention to detail; good organizational skills.
  • Excellent time management: proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Working environment:
  • The role involves physical labor, exposure to varying temperatures, and handling potentially hazardous materials. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be used at all times. Working overtime, weekends, and holidays may be required.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $22.00 hourly rate - $23.50 hourly rate. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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