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Phd Solar Material Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing III

Gaffney, SC · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Manage and lead group of Material Handling and Automation engineers and/ or technicians either ...

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing III

Gaffney, SC

$66K - $85K/yr

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset ... Manage and lead group of Material Handling and Automation engineers and/ or technicians either ...

First Solar

Senior Technologist USA

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$232K - $331K/yr

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 ...

First Solar

Senior Technologist USA

Santa Clara, CA

$232K - $331K/yr

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 ...

Corning

Sr Scientist, Critical Materials

Corning, NY · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy ... The position centers on innovation in material synthesis and extraction using AFR technology as a ...

Corning

Sr Scientist, Critical Materials

Corning, NY

$87K - $119K/yr

Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy ... The position centers on innovation in material synthesis and extraction using AFR technology as a ...

Corning

Sr Scientist, Critical Materials

Corning, NY · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

Solar polysilicon, wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, enabling low-cost solar energy ... The position centers on innovation in material synthesis and extraction using AFR technology as a ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Collaborate with solar collection and controls teams to optimize aiming strategies and flux ... Engineering, Materials Science, or related field; Master's or PhD preferred * 7+ years of ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Collaborate with solar collection and controls teams to optimize aiming strategies and flux ... Engineering, Materials Science, or related field; Master's or PhD preferred * 7+ years of ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Collaborate with solar collection and controls teams to optimize aiming strategies and flux ... Engineering, Materials Science, or related field; Master's or PhD preferred * 7+ years of ...

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Phd Solar Material information

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$16

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$77

How much do phd solar material jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd solar material in the United States is $29.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Solar Materials, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Solar Materials, you need advanced knowledge in materials science, solid-state physics, and photovoltaic technologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in a related field. Experience with laboratory techniques, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD, and spectroscopy), and data analysis software is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and effective scientific communication set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are vital for driving innovation, publishing research, and contributing to advancements in solar energy technologies.

What are PhD Solar Material researchers?

PhD Solar Material researchers are scientists who specialize in the study and development of materials used in solar energy technologies. They typically hold a doctoral degree (PhD) in materials science, physics, chemistry, or a related field, and focus on improving the efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness of solar cells and panels. Their work involves both experimental and theoretical research to discover new materials or enhance existing ones for better solar energy conversion. These researchers often collaborate with engineers and industry partners to bring innovative solar technologies to market.

What is the difference between Phd Solar Material vs Solar Cell Engineer?

AspectPhd Solar MaterialSolar Cell Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science, Physics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D centersManufacturing facilities, R&D labs, field testing
Industry UsageFocus on developing new materials for solar panelsDesign, optimize, and test solar cell systems

While both roles are integral to solar technology, a Phd Solar Material specializes in developing and researching new materials for solar panels, often working in academic or research settings. In contrast, a Solar Cell Engineer applies engineering principles to design and improve solar cell systems, typically working in industry manufacturing or product development.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD researchers specializing in solar materials, and how can they be addressed?

PhD researchers in solar materials often encounter challenges such as scaling lab results to real-world applications, keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, and securing funding for experimental work. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as chemists, physicists, and engineers—can help address technical hurdles and broaden research perspectives. Regular engagement with industry partners and attending conferences are also valuable for staying updated and identifying potential applications or commercialization opportunities.
Infographic showing various Phd Solar Material job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,679 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Engineer- Manufacturing III

Engineer- Manufacturing III

First Solar

Gaffney, SC • On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

First Solar rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

427th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
The work location for this position is to be determined and will be communicated at the time of offer. Candidates must be willing to relocate to any First Solar location. Relocation assistance may be provided where applicable.
First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.
Basic Job Functions:
Lead process or equipment improvement under the oversight of respective Area Manager or Sr. Managers to meet Manufacturing P90 metrics. Manage and lead group of Material Handling and Automation engineers and/ or technicians either directly or through the course of a project/assignment. Work with stakeholders like Process Engineering, Integration Engineering, Replication Engineering. Global Supply Chain or Quality & Reliability to resolve technical problems and develop robust manufacturing processes. Initiate and lead complex equipment or process changes following CMS stage-gate process and work with Global Alignment Team counterparts to successfully replicate the changes. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic thinking to drive efficiency, safety, and innovation across production lines.
Education/Experience:
  • >8 years process engineering and/or R&D experience in a manufacturing environment; will usually have a broad engineering and technology background.
  • Fluent with statistical analysis methods and tools and structured problem solving; Adept at analyzing big datasets using tools like JMP or Minitab
  • Experience in Photovoltaics Manufacturing Flow or Technology Development & Sustaining experience in the broad fields of Glass Therm-Mechanical Processing, Module Packaging and Structural Development, Semiconductor Processes, Electrical Device Integration, Automation/Robotics/AGV-AMR & Material Handling
  • Good familiarity with Automation Equipment Design, Equipment Start-up, PM's, Data Analysis to be able to leverage the same in troubleshooting.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead small technical teams including goal setting and performance management
  • Bachelors/Masters/PhD Degree in Engineering Discipline or Physical Science Field or equivalent.

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Demonstration of leadership skills in small teams in a localized environment. This typically involves experience directly supervising a small team of engineers and technicians
  • Knowledge of Manufacturing Processes, Pneumatic systems, Mechanical & Electrical diagrams.
  • Knowledge of Manufacturing Engineering Techniques and Practices.
  • Knowledge of Automation Equipment such as: Conveyors, Robots, AGV-AMR's, Accumulators, Bar Code Readers, & Vision/Sensors.
  • Knowledge of ISO 9000 standards and SPC tools.
  • Knowledge of Robust Engineering principles, Six Sigma, VAVE process.
  • Able to lead creation of and improvements to Equipment FMEA & PFMEA, Control Plans, WI's & Equipment Cycle Time.
  • Proven quality Skills.
  • Proven Technical Problem-solving skills using DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams.
  • Possess excellent data analysis and collection skills.
  • Knowledge of MS Office suite, Power Bi, statistical, and AI software
  • Written and oral communication skills with ability to create presentations suitable for sharing with executive and C-level staff.
  • Demonstrated expertise in driving projects through Change Management systems.
  • Demonstrated expertise in engineering test/experimental design, execution, and interpretation of results.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Responsible to develop, continually improve, and document robust solar module manufacturing processes to achieve the highest product performance in a cost-efficient manner.
  • Perform in-depth investigations into process issues for improved Yield, Through Put, & Cycle Time.
  • Evaluate new proposed equipment according to process standards.
  • Create, Review, Submit, & Execute process experiment proposals and subsequent results.
  • Defines and implements corrective/preventive actions and continuous improvement activities as assigned.
  • Adheres to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.
  • Lead mainly local task forces and project teams to sustaining, repair, & install Automation equipment.
  • Assist in the installation, commissioning, & ramp-up of Capital Equipment installations or upgrades.
  • Able to influence up to director level globally
  • Work cross functionally and drive decisions mainly at the local level.
  • Work with Global teams for Process, Tool, & Routing improvements of new and existing equipment.
  • Directly and indirectly manage a technical staff up to and including senior engineer level which includes training, mentoring, goal setting, & performance reviews

Reporting Relationships:
  • This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:
  • Up to 5% Domestically: to other manufacturing locations, continued training, trade shows, & equipment run-offs.
  • If hired during plant start up, you will be expected to travel to other First Solar locations for training.

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $112,300 - $160,000, Annually

US 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 band 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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