About the role#
This internship provides hands-on experience on the production floor working with high-volume solar panel manufacturing equipment. You will work with a cross-functional team to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot production processes. This is a paid, full-time, on-site role for Summer 2027.
What you'll do#
- Assist manufacturing engineers and technicians with day-to-day production challenges.
- Identify and implement improvements to product performance.
- Collect production process data and perform statistical analysis to assess performance.
- Respond to equipment alarms and execute planned process experiments.
- Develop and update process work instructions and control plans.
- Provide on-the-job training to production associates.
- Maintain communication with engineers and production staff while adhering to safety and environmental health standards.
What you'll need#
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Currently pursuing at least an associate degree in a technical discipline, such as Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering, or Business Administration.
- Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- A safety-first mindset for working in a factory environment.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including a respirator, which requires little or no facial hair.
- Physical ability to stand or walk for up to 12 hours, lift up to 58 pounds, and climb stairs.
Location & details#
- Location: Perrysburg, Ohio.
- Work Modality: On-site, with travel required between local plants.
- Schedule: Rotating two-week schedule on a crew (day or night shifts).
- Sponsorship: Not available.
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.
