Process Engineer
8 days ago
Rochester
Job DescriptionProcess Development Engineer – SolarSummaryThe Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing thin-film coating processes to support stable, high-volume production of photovoltaic (solar) modules.Reporting StructureReports to: VP, ManufacturingLocationRochester, NY areaKey ResponsibilitiesProduct R&D • Design and execute experiments to develop and improve materials and manufacturing processes for enhanced product performance, • Conduct lab and pilot-scale testing; analyze results and recommend next steps, • Monitor product and process performance throughout development cycles, • Evaluate data and identify continuous improvement opportunities, • Perform material characterization using tools such as SEM, AFM, XRF, and profilometry, • Support implementation of in-line metrology tools to ensure coating quality and consistencyManufacturing Development, • Optimize processes for high-volume, stable production environments, • Develop and maintain process documentation and SOPs, • Define equipment requirements and assist with vendor selection, • Support production cost estimation and process efficiency improvements, • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations, • Assist with production line layout and scale-up activitiesRequired Qualifications, • Experience developing thin-film products and manufacturing processes, • Knowledge of roll-to-roll processing (unwinding/winding, splicing, coating, laminating, web handling), • Exposure to manufacturing or production environments, • Experience with at least one of the following:, • Gravure coating, • Slot die coating, • Flexographic printing, • Laser patterningPreferred Qualifications, • Experience with thin-film solar technologies (e.g., perovskite solar cells), • Ink formulation experience, • Design of Experiments (DOE), • Vacuum deposition or atomic layer deposition, • Lean manufacturing knowledge, • Project management experienceEducation & Experience, • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, or related technical field (advanced degree preferred), • Experience supporting production environments, • Experience with process or product scale-upCore Competencies, • Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills, • Ability to collaborate across teams and with external partners, • Familiarity with process simulation tools and standard operating procedures, • Experience with CAD/AutoCAD preferred, • Understanding of health and safety regulationsPhysical Requirements, • Ability to bend, twist, push, and pull as needed, • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs #DHIR26