Laser Development Intern (Spring 2026)

First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset. 

Basic Job Scope:

• Leading the world’s sustainable energy future, First Solar interns work around the globe/country in research and development, marketing, project development, information technology, engineering, energy services and much more. When you work at First Solar, you will be challenged every day and provided real world experience. You will be given the opportunity to find new solutions and develop new skills to further advance your skillset. At First Solar we strive to foster a culture that encourages innovation through collaboration, urging colleagues to take smart risks, learning from failures and course correcting, and owning personal accountability for contributing to our mission.

Expected Length of Internship: 

• Internship from January 2026 until May 2026 (Spring 2026).
• As an internship company, we allow flexibility to enroll in classes while working as an intern, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the essential functions of the position.

Education/Experience:

• Taken coursework related to physics, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or materials science.
• Intern must be currently pursuing an education in a STEM related field, physics, chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or materials science preferred. 
• Intermediate knowledge of MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Access).
• First Solar encourages all interns to register their internship with their university.

Required Skills/Competencies:

• Ability to learn the operation, calibration, and preventative maintenance of process equipment and systems.
• Familiarity with basic electrical components.
• Ability to use analytical skills to read charts and graphs to find trends.
• Ability to apply statistical methods to analyze the desired data.
• Ability to communicate on a regular basis with all levels of associates.
• Continuous improvement/learning.
• Problem solver, can-do-attitude, willingness to push tasks forward and demonstrate ownership – go above and beyond consistently.

Basic Internship Scope (Project):

• This internship offers hands-on experience in laser process optimization and materials characterization, with a focus on laser material interactions. The intern will support experimental testing, analyze materials using optical microscopy, and contribute to scaling up laser processes in photovoltaic modules. Responsibilities include preparing samples, measuring physical and electrical properties, and maintaining detailed experimental records. Strong communication, collaboration, and multitasking skills are essential, as the role operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. 
• Upon the completion of this internship, the intern is required to present their accomplishments and project summary to the leadership team.

Estimated Salary Range:

• $22.00-$25.00 Hourly. 

US Physical Requirements:

• Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.
• Will climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis.
• Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.
• Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.
• Will push or pull up to 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.
• Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
• 20/40 vision in both eyes (with or without correction) and the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green is required.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
• Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to: steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) and a condition of employment and continued employment (may require little or no facial hair).

All positions in our office require interaction with people and technology while either standing or sitting. To best service our customers, internal and external, all associates must be able to communicate face-to-face and on the phone with or without reasonable accommodation. First Solar is committed to compliance with its obligations under all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting employment discrimina