About the role#
This internship provides hands-on experience with high-volume solar panel manufacturing equipment and processes. You will work alongside a cross-functional team to monitor production performance, solve technical problems, and contribute to safety, quality, and productivity goals. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8a-5p, based in the manufacturing plant.
What you'll do#
- Assist manufacturing technicians, engineers, and leadership with daily operations.
- Solve day-to-day production equipment and process challenges.
- Monitor and collect production process data, then perform statistical analysis to assess performance.
- Execute process experiments, analyze the data, and report your results.
- Create and conduct training sessions in both classroom settings and on the production floor.
- Develop and update documentation like process work instructions and control plans.
- Adhere to all safety procedures, housekeeping standards, and environmental health protocols, including the handling of waste and hazardous materials.
What you'll need#
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Currently pursuing at least a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, Chemical, or Environmental Engineering, or Business Administration.
- Competence in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- A strong safety mindset for working in a factory environment.
- Good written and oral communication skills in English.
- Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems effectively.
- Ability to work as part of a team and interact with internal associates and supplier representatives.
Location & details#
- Location: Perrysburg, Ohio.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site position. Travel between local plants is required.
- Physical requirements: You must be able to sit, stand, or walk for up to 12 hours per day, climb stairs, and lift or push up to 58 pounds. You will be required to wear personal protective equipment, including steel-toed shoes and safety glasses. The ability to wear a respirator is a condition of employment, which requires little or no facial hair.
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.
