R&D Intern
Silfab Solar
19 hours ago
Full-time
On-site
Burlington WA United States
Solar
Company Description
Making a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.
Our purpose is to make a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.
At Silfab Solar, the energy of our people is the power behind our success. Our employees actively shape the solar innovations of tomorrow, while adhering to the highest ethical operating standards and promoting a respectful and safe workplace for our diverse workforce.
Our state-of-the art facilities in the US and Canada engineer and design the latest generation of solar products and utilize advanced manufacturing technology to produce high-efficiency PV cells and modules intended to outperform the market. As a profitable and rapidly expanding company in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the renewable energy industry, Silfab provides you with an incredible opportunity to build your career and contribute to a sustainable future. We are committed to investing in our employees, providing a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and professional growth. We offer competitive pay, generous benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but more importantly, we offer you the ability to make a real difference in the world.
Together we can create a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.
Job Description
Summary of Position
The R&D Intern supports the development and validation of new solar technologies by assisting in experimental design, module testing, and data analysis. This role collaborates closely with engineers and cross-functional teams to advance product innovation, evaluate material performance, and improve manufacturing processes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in the design and execution of experiments to evaluate the performance and durability of new solar technologies and materials
Work alongside engineers to conduct modules and extended reliability testing according to internal qualification guidelines
Conduct module characterization and utilize analytical tools to process and interpret data
Present findings to the R&D team and stakeholders in a clear and concise manner
Assist in the preparation and assembly of prototypes and R&D samples for new solar module designs
Perform destructive testing in accordance with IEC standards 61215 and 61730 for material evaluation and durability testing
Support identification and escalation of manufacturing defects related to material or process issues on the production line
Perform general support tasks to aid research, development, and continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Basic understanding of engineering or scientific testing methods
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret technical data
Effective communication skills for presenting technical findings
Traits
Detail-oriented with strong organization skills
Curious, proactive, and eager to learn
Ability to work both independently and in team environments
Adaptable in a fast-paced R&D setting
Education and/or Experience
Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field
Exposure to laboratory testing or research environments preferred
Familiarity with solar technologies or materials science is a plus
Experience with data analysis tools or programming (preferred)
Learning Outcomes
Gain hands-on experience with solar module testing and R&D processes
Develop knowledge of industry standards (IEC 61215 & 61730)
Build skills in experimental design, data analysis, and technical reporting
Enhance collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams
Strengthen problem-solving abilities in a real-world innovation environment
Gain hands-on experience with manufacturing systems and documentation control processes
Develop an understanding of safety, quality, and operational excellence practices in a production environment
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift and move materials up to 25 pounds independently and participate in team lifts of approximately 60 pounds as required for essential production tasks.
Must be able to remain in a stationary position or move throughout the production floor for extended periods (for the duration of the shift up to 8+ hours per shift).
Must be able to operate, position, adjust, or move equipment, tools, or materials necessary for production processes.
Capable of performing consistent, manual production tasks over long shifts.
Must be able to work in typical manufacturing environmental conditions, including areas requiring PPE, exposure to noise, and temperature variation.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Additional Information
Compensation and Benefits
Wage: $21 - $25 per hour
Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)
401(k) Retirement Plan
Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
Health Savings Account option
Supplemental/Voluntary Insurance Plans
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employee Recognition Programs
Employee PV Panel Purchase Program
Making a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.
Our purpose is to make a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.
At Silfab Solar, the energy of our people is the power behind our success. Our employees actively shape the solar innovations of tomorrow, while adhering to the highest ethical operating standards and promoting a respectful and safe workplace for our diverse workforce.
Our state-of-the art facilities in the US and Canada engineer and design the latest generation of solar products and utilize advanced manufacturing technology to produce high-efficiency PV cells and modules intended to outperform the market. As a profitable and rapidly expanding company in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the renewable energy industry, Silfab provides you with an incredible opportunity to build your career and contribute to a sustainable future. We are committed to investing in our employees, providing a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and professional growth. We offer competitive pay, generous benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but more importantly, we offer you the ability to make a real difference in the world.
Together we can create a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.
Job Description
Summary of Position
The R&D Intern supports the development and validation of new solar technologies by assisting in experimental design, module testing, and data analysis. This role collaborates closely with engineers and cross-functional teams to advance product innovation, evaluate material performance, and improve manufacturing processes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in the design and execution of experiments to evaluate the performance and durability of new solar technologies and materials
Work alongside engineers to conduct modules and extended reliability testing according to internal qualification guidelines
Conduct module characterization and utilize analytical tools to process and interpret data
Present findings to the R&D team and stakeholders in a clear and concise manner
Assist in the preparation and assembly of prototypes and R&D samples for new solar module designs
Perform destructive testing in accordance with IEC standards 61215 and 61730 for material evaluation and durability testing
Support identification and escalation of manufacturing defects related to material or process issues on the production line
Perform general support tasks to aid research, development, and continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Basic understanding of engineering or scientific testing methods
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret technical data
Effective communication skills for presenting technical findings
Traits
Detail-oriented with strong organization skills
Curious, proactive, and eager to learn
Ability to work both independently and in team environments
Adaptable in a fast-paced R&D setting
Education and/or Experience
Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field
Exposure to laboratory testing or research environments preferred
Familiarity with solar technologies or materials science is a plus
Experience with data analysis tools or programming (preferred)
Learning Outcomes
Gain hands-on experience with solar module testing and R&D processes
Develop knowledge of industry standards (IEC 61215 & 61730)
Build skills in experimental design, data analysis, and technical reporting
Enhance collaboration with engineering and manufacturing teams
Strengthen problem-solving abilities in a real-world innovation environment
Gain hands-on experience with manufacturing systems and documentation control processes
Develop an understanding of safety, quality, and operational excellence practices in a production environment
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift and move materials up to 25 pounds independently and participate in team lifts of approximately 60 pounds as required for essential production tasks.
Must be able to remain in a stationary position or move throughout the production floor for extended periods (for the duration of the shift up to 8+ hours per shift).
Must be able to operate, position, adjust, or move equipment, tools, or materials necessary for production processes.
Capable of performing consistent, manual production tasks over long shifts.
Must be able to work in typical manufacturing environmental conditions, including areas requiring PPE, exposure to noise, and temperature variation.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Additional Information
Compensation and Benefits
Wage: $21 - $25 per hour
Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)
401(k) Retirement Plan
Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
Health Savings Account option
Supplemental/Voluntary Insurance Plans
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employee Recognition Programs
Employee PV Panel Purchase Program