Job Description
IQC Associate Engineer
Illuminate USA, located in the heart of Central Ohio, is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we’ve rapidly grown to over 1,600 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.
This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We’re not just building solar panels, we’re building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you’re looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!
We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.
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Job Summary:
The Associate IQC Engineer is responsible for supporting incoming quality control activities for solar module raw materials. This role ensures that all incoming materials meet engineering specifications, quality standards, and inspection criteria. The engineer will work closely with SQE, Process Engineering, and Production teams to identify material issues, perform data analysis, and drive continuous quality improvement.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Incoming Inspection & Equipment OperationRead and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and material standards.
Read operating manuals and correctly operate IQC inspection and testing equipment.
Perform troubleshooting and basic maintenance of inspection equipment to ensure measurement accuracy and equipment uptime.
Create, update, and maintain SOPs, Work Instructions, and Control Plans related to IQC activities.
Understand inspection criteria and acceptance standards for solar module raw materials.
Clearly document inspection findings and escalate quality issues as required.
Create, update, and maintain SPC control charts for incoming material characteristics.
Perform trend analysis and monitor material quality performance over time.
Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) using structured problem-solving tools and support corrective actions.
Monitor raw material quality issues impacting production lines, investigate root causes, and work closely with SQE, Process Engineering, and Production teams to resolve issues.
Minimum Qualifications:
EducationAssociate degree or above (major in Engineering, Materials, Mechanical, Electrical, or related fields preferred).
Technical SkillsAbility to read engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Hands-on experience with inspection and measurement equipment (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges, and testing instruments).
Basic knowledge of SPC, quality tools, and data analysis methods.
Familiarity with SOPs, Work Instructions, and Control Plans.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Good communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Detail-oriented with a strong sense of quality and accountability.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.
We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward.
Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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What We Do
Illuminate USA is an American leader in advanced clean energy manufacturing, dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solar panel technology and sustainable energy solutions. With a focus on innovation, Illuminate USA empowers a dynamic workforce to drive progress in the renewable energy sector. Based in Pataskala, Ohio, Illuminate USA operates a 1.1 million-square-foot facility, employing more than 1,400 associates across eight production lines, six of which are currently operational, with two more to be added by the end of 2024. At full capacity, the facility will produce more than 9.2 million advanced solar panels annually, equaling five gigawatts of electricity production — enough to power one million American homes. Illuminate USA is committed to onshoring the solar supply chain and investing in and upskilling the Ohio workforce by providing opportunities for engineers, technicians, production associates, and more. Together, we are making strides in American-generated, clean energy and lighting the way for a sustainable future.









