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First Solar Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: * Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell ...

Development Engineer I

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$89K - $127K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: * Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: * Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: * Lead design, implementation, and validation of electrical control systems ...

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. Basic Job Functions: * Lead design, implementation, and validation of electrical control systems ...

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First Solar information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Solar Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Solar Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, renewable energy systems, and project management, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, SCADA systems, and industry certifications like PMP or NABCEP are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help drive project success and innovation. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient solar project design, implementation, and ongoing performance in a rapidly evolving industry.

What is the difference between First Solar vs Solar Panel Installer?

AspectFirst SolarSolar Panel Installer
CredentialsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesOn-site installation at various locations
Industry UsageSolar manufacturing, large-scale projectsResidential and commercial solar system installation
Job FocusDesign, manufacturing, and technical supportInstalling and maintaining solar panels

First Solar primarily focuses on manufacturing and engineering within the solar industry, often working in controlled environments. In contrast, Solar Panel Installers are hands-on workers who install solar systems on-site. Both roles are essential in the solar energy sector but differ significantly in credentials, work environment, and job responsibilities.

What does a job at First Solar entail?

Working at First Solar typically involves contributing to the design, manufacturing, or deployment of photovoltaic solar panels and systems. Employees may work in roles ranging from engineering and manufacturing to sales, project management, or research and development. The company focuses on advancing solar technology, improving energy efficiency, and supporting sustainability initiatives. Team members are expected to collaborate on innovative projects that help expand clean energy solutions. A job at First Solar often requires technical skills, a commitment to safety, and an interest in renewable energy.

What are the typical cross-functional collaborations involved in a role at First Solar?

At First Solar, employees often work collaboratively across departments such as engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality assurance. These cross-functional teams are essential for ensuring that solar modules are designed, produced, and delivered efficiently and according to industry standards. Team members regularly participate in meetings to align on project goals, resolve technical challenges, and streamline processes. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and supports professional development by exposing employees to a wide range of expertise.
What are popular job titles related to First Solar jobs in California? For First Solar jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Solar jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Solar jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Solar jobs? Cities in California with the most First Solar job openings:
Infographic showing various First Solar job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.
Development Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

Development Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

First Solar

Santa Clara, CA

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


First Solar rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

457th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

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

Basic Job Scope: 


    Leading the world's sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission.
 

Expected Length of Internship: 
    3-5 months encompassing Fall term (with some flexibility)
    As an internship company, we allow flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn't interfere with the essential functions of the position.
 

Education/Experience:
    Engineering, chemistry, or physics (Year 2+ of undergrad, or any graduate level) 
    Some experience in chemistry lecture courses and at least one chemistry lab course is required.
    Experience in an undergraduate research lab would be helpful.
    Applicant must not have finished their degree in order to qualify.
    First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their university.
 

Required Skills/Competencies:
    Good knowledge of physics and chemistry concepts; experience in collecting data from experiments; good communication and teamwork; knows how to use MS Excel)
 

Basic Internship Scope (Project):
    The intern will interact with a team of engineers and technicians to conduct hands-on lab work related to solar panel research experiments conducted at the California Technology Center in Santa Clara, CA.
    The intern will help push forward experiments related to inkjet printing and spray coating of uniform thin film materials related to solar panel R&D.
    Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.
 

Estimated Salary Range:
   27.50 USD per hour- 37.50 USD per hr
 

US Physical Requirements: 
 

(1)    Hybrid Physical Requirements:
    Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
    Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
    Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis. 
    Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
    20/40 vision in both eyes together, with or without correction, is required.
    Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
    May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
    May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
    Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use.


Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be 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.


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