Lab Associate I Jobs Near Me

Job Description Illuminate USA, located in the heart of Central Ohio, is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we’ve rapidly grew to over 1,600 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. 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’re not just building solar panels, we’re building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you’re looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you! We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.

We are currently looking for a Reliability Laboratory Associate Engineer for our new factory in Columbus, Ohio. This position will be primarily responsible for conducting routine and specialized testing of materials and products, ensuring adherence to our company’s high standards of quality, reliability, and safety. The Laboratory Inspector will also interface internally with Production, Equipment Engineering, and Process Engineering to support continuous improvement initiatives and maintain compliance with both internal and industry standards. Candidates with experience in electromechanical, electrical, or reliability testing are strongly preferred.

• Daily Laboratory Testing & Inspection
  • Conducts reliability testing (e.g., I-V, Insulation, and Mechanical Load) and generates reports.
  • Identify defects, anomalies, or non-conformances in accordance with internal standards and regulatory requirements.
• Standards Compliance & Documentation
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of ISO 17025 documentation and protocols to ensure the laboratory’s acquisition and maintenance of accreditation.
  • Follow and implement relevant industry standards such as IEC 61215 and 61730, and other applicable standards in the field of Solar Panel Reliability Testing.
• Equipment Calibration & Maintenance
  • Perform regular preventive maintenance activities on assigned laboratory equipment.
• Quality Data Analysis & Reporting
  • Record and report test results accurately and consistently.
  • Collaborate with Quality Engineers and management to evaluate trends, conduct root cause analyses, and propose corrective or preventive actions.
  • Support customer visits and demonstrate testing procedures, as needed.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Contribute to the development of improved testing methods, inspection protocols, and laboratory workflows.
  • Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Other Duties
  • Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned by Quality Managers and other superiors.

• Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a related field; or at least 4 years of direct experience in laboratory testing or quality assurance. Automotive, semiconductor, or solar industry experience is highly desirable.
• Technical Proficiency Familiarity with data acquisition systems, testing instrumentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Experience with ISO 9001, ISO 17025, or similar quality management systems is advantageous.
• Skills & Abilities Strong attention to detail with the ability to multitask and adapt to changing responsibilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is a plus. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Work Ethic & Mindset Demonstrated ability to follow strict safety and quality protocols. High level of initiative and ownership in driving tasks and responsibilities to completion.

Relocation assistance can be provided. Must be able to work on-site in Columbus, Ohio.

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward. Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Illuminate USA, a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, is building one of the largest solar panel manufacturing factories in the Western Hemisphere. This 1.1 million-square-foot factory is currently in advanced stages of preparation in the Columbus, Ohio area. Illuminate USA is seeking highly motivated team members to help the company grow from startup to a full scale, industry leading manufacturer with $1B - $2B expected annual revenue and over 1,200 employees in less than two years. This will be a fast-paced and exciting time in our history as we are building something great from the ground up here in central Ohio. We offer competitive pay, benefits, and ongoing career development opportunities. Come join our collaborative, people-focused, and innovative workplace as we embark upon this unique and exciting journey!