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Solar Cell Research Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Development Engineer II

Perrysburg, OH · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell performance and stability and to reduce manufacturing cost. * Responsible for projects or functions that are enablers to ...

Perform material and device research to enhance thin film solar cell performance and stability and to reduce manufacturing cost. * Responsible for projects or functions that are enablers to ...

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Solar Cell Research information

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$37

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How much do solar cell research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar cell research in Ohio is $37.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.47 and $45.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical career advancement opportunities for someone in solar cell research?

Professionals in Solar Cell Research often begin as research assistants or junior scientists and can progress to roles like lead researcher, laboratory manager, or project coordinator as they gain expertise and experience. Many industry professionals also pursue advanced degrees or certifications, which open doors to senior research, product development, or executive positions within energy companies and academic institutions. Collaboration with engineers, production teams, and external partners also broadens future possibilities, including transitioning into commercial, policy, or teaching roles. Regular involvement in high-impact research projects and publishing findings can further enhance advancement prospects. This career path offers diverse opportunities for growth and specialization as the solar energy sector continues to expand.

What is a solar cell research?

A Solar Cell Research job involves studying, developing, and improving photovoltaic (PV) technologies to enhance solar energy efficiency and affordability. Researchers work on materials, manufacturing processes, and innovative designs to increase energy conversion rates. They may collaborate with engineers, industries, and academic institutions to develop next-generation solar cells. This role often includes laboratory experiments, data analysis, and publishing findings in scientific journals. The goal is to advance solar technology for widespread adoption and sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in solar cell research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Solar Cell Research, a strong background in materials science, physics, chemistry, or electrical engineering is typically required, supported by at least a bachelor's or advanced degree. Experience with laboratory instruments, photovoltaic simulation software, and safety certifications such as OSHA are highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for innovating and progressing in this field. These competencies are essential for advancing solar technology, ensuring reliable results, and collaborating efficiently with multidisciplinary teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Cell Research jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Solar Cell Research jobs in Ohio are:

Infographic showing various Solar Cell Research job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,867 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Development Engineer IV - Integration USA

First Solar

Perrysburg, OH • On-site

$99K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


First Solar rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

479th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description


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 perovskite solar cell solar cell performance and stability and to reduce manufacturing cost.
  • Responsible for projects or functions that are highly complex, require significant innovation, and critical to department objectives.
  • Plan, execute, and characterize development engineering experiments in the laboratory and manufacturing environment with strategic foresight. Success requires iterative planning and de-risking over long periods.
  • Applies statistical and engineering methods to optimize organizational effectiveness. Core leader within the group in one or more areas.

Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 20 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer III at First Solar.
  • Master's Degree in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 15 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer III at First Solar.
  • Ph.D. in an engineering discipline or similar technical discipline and 10 years of relevant technical experience or 2 years of experience as a Development Engineer III at First Solar.

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Technical expert and innovator in one area of perovskite processes and/or equipment development.
  • Deep understanding of process/equipment interactions with the ability to develop new solutions.
  • In depth knowledge in several fields from the list of photovoltaic device theory, materials science, process engineering, characterization techniques and other fields relevant to First Solar's technology.
  • Strong sense of project ownership with hands-on and can-do attitude.
  • Strong communication skills across organizations with demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Identify opportunities for improvement in perovskite solar cell efficiency, material selection, and process/equipment design through engineering, scientific, or empirical methods.
  • Improve state of the art techniques for material analysis, statistical analysis of data, or execution planning of experiments. Develop a work plan that has unclear solution paths.
  • May be responsible to determine and evaluate material specification for improved performance. May be responsible to determine and evaluate tool/equipment specifications.
  • Effective communicator with internal and external partners and customers. Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional efforts as needed.
  • May train, mentor and manage junior and peers on specific subject matters. Specialist within the group.
  • Comply with Company's Environmental, Quality, Safety or any other policies that have been enforced. Contributes to continuous improvement of said policies.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:
  • Reports to Development Manager.
  • May have direct reports.

Travel:
  • 5% - 10%

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $99,600 - $140,000 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 each eye, 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).
  • All associates working on the production floor may be required to wear a respirator at any given time and thus, the ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair).

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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