Job Description

** Summary of Position**

The Research Engineer will serve as the technical cornerstone for 1-2 high-priority projects, driving them to completion with a focus on deep technical execution. This role is designed for someone with a solid foundation of experience, capable of taking ownership of projects while contributing to the team's overall goals.

Qualifications

** Essential Duties and Responsibilities**

• Own and execute the technical development of 1-2 key R&D projects from concept through to validation and deployment.
• Design, prototype, test, and refine systems, materials, or processes as dictated by project needs.
• Maintain meticulous documentation to support project transparency and ensure smooth hand-offs when required.
• Provide light project leadership, including mentoring junior team members or technicians assigned to support the projects.
• Contribute to R&D strategy discussions by sharing insights gained from project work.

** Skills**

• Proficient with data analysis tools and methods; Excel and Python preferred, with experience in JMP, R, or similar platforms as a plus.
• Familiarity with basic tools like ImageJ, with potential for implementing more advanced automation techniques in image analysis.
• Comfortable with using basic electrical and mechanical tools for repairing equipment and creating solar modules by hand.
• Strong skills in experimental process design, execution, measurement, data collection, and analysis.

** Traits**

• Ability to independently drive projects forward, taking ownership without requiring external prompting.
• Capable of sharing results effectively with stakeholders while maintaining excellent organizational practices throughout.

** Experience** ****

• 3-7 years of hands-on experience in R&D roles with a proven track record of taking projects from concept to implementation.
• Direct experience with PV module manufacturing processes, including materials selection, assembly techniques, and quality control protocols.
• Familiarity with PV module testing methodologies, including reliability, performance, and environmental testing.
• Expertise in laser-based processing systems, such as laser ablation, scribing, or welding, and their integration into manufacturing workflows.

Education:

• Required: Bachelor's degree in engineering, materials science, physics, or related field.
• Preferred: Master's degree in a relevant field, or a combination of advanced coursework and hands-on experience in PV module development or laser-based processing systems.

Additional Information

** Compensation and Benefits**

• Salary: $90,000 - $130,000
• Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
• Health Savings Account option
• Supplemental/Voluntary Insurance Plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Employee PV Panel Purchase Program