Job Description
In the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA 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 1,500 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.We are seeking a highly motivated Solar Module Product Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, materials science, or product certifications. You will play a key role in developing next-generation solar modules to improve efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of renewable energy technologies and make a meaningful impact on the transition to a sustainable future.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and Development:
Design and improve high-efficiency solar modules for performance, reliability, and manufacturability
Material Qualification:
Evaluate and select materials for solar module components
Conduct material compatibility and durability testing to ensure long-term performance.
Certification Management:
Lead end-to-end certification projects for new and existing solar module products
Collaborate closely with R&D, Design, and Production teams to integrate compliance requirements into the product development lifecycle.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
3+ years of experience in solar product development, or a related field.
Familiarity with solar module manufacturing processes and equipment.
Strong understanding of photovoltaic principles, materials, and technologies.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication and documentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with advanced solar cell technologies.
Knowledge of reliability testing and failure analysis for solar modules.
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.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
- 3+ years of experience in solar product development, or a related field
- Familiarity with solar module manufacturing processes and equipment
- Strong understanding of photovoltaic principles, materials, and technologies
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
- Strong communication and documentation skills
Illuminate USA Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Illuminate USA and has not been reviewed or approved by Illuminate USA.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Pay is considered competitive for the area, often described as above-average for local production roles and fair for the work performed. Opportunities for overtime further enhance earnings for those who want it.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage are included, with eligibility beginning shortly after hire and indications of quick start in some cases. This breadth of core health coverage strengthens the total rewards baseline.
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Parental & Family Support — Company-paid maternity leave at no cost to associates is explicitly provided. This family-oriented benefit adds tangible support beyond base pay.
Illuminate USA Insights
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.
