About the role#
As a Development Engineering Intern, you will join our team to support the fabrication and analysis of research-scale photovoltaic devices. This is a full-time, paid position for Winter 2027, running from January 4th to May 21st. You will work on-site in Santa Clara, California, under daily supervision, following standard procedures to complete assigned tasks and resolve routine technical questions.
What you'll do#
- Support the fabrication of research-scale photovoltaic devices, including standard and non-standard processes.
- Assist in the development of novel processes and materials for thin-film photovoltaic devices.
- Help with the electrical and material characterization of thin films and devices.
- Present your project summary and accomplishments to the leadership team at the end of the internship.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in at least your junior year of an undergraduate program.
- Pursuing a degree in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related STEM field.
- Competency in MS Office, specifically Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
- Strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and troubleshoot basic problems.
- Experience with wet chemistry processing, vacuum equipment, or photovoltaic device fabrication is preferred.
- Knowledge of analytical tools like UV-Vis, AFM, SEM, SIMS, XRD, XRR, or ellipsometry is a plus.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including respirators when necessary, which may require little or no facial hair.
Location & details#
- Location: Santa Clara, CA.
- Term: Winter 2027 (January 4th to May 21st).
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Employment Type: Full-time.
- Sponsorship: Not available for this position.
About First Solar
First Solar operates as a public company specializing in thin-film solar panel manufacturing and renewable energy. Founded in 1999, the firm maintains its headquarters in Tempe, Arizona. It employs approximately 6,715 people across its global operations. The company develops its solar technology through research and development labs located in California and Ohio.
How to get in at First Solar
Applying to First Solar early is a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you get your materials in before the pile grows. You gain a better chance of being seen when you are among the first to apply. Reaching the recruiter directly often beats applying into a standard queue. Intern Insider surfaces the specific recruiters behind roles at First Solar so you can reach out to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach materially improves your response rates compared to a blind submission.
