Production Operator, Cell Operations

Company Description

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.  

Silfab Solar is the North American leader in the design, development, and manufacture of high-efficiency, premium quality solar cells and solar modules. Silfab leverages more than 40 years of solar experience and best-in-class technologies operating state-of-the-art facilities in Burlington, Washington, Fort Mill, South Carolina and corporate headquarters in Toronto, Canada.  Each operating facility features multiple automated production lines, certified to the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System standard, and just-in-time manufacturing to deliver Buy American approved PV modules specifically designed for and dedicated to the North American market. 

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. 

Job Description

Summary of Position 

As a Production Operator in Cell Manufacturing, you will operate your assigned station safely and efficiently to produce high-quality solar cells. Depending on your assignment, this may include loading wafers, operating print or testing equipment, inspecting and sorting cells, labeling, or packing finished product — always following the cleanroom, ESD, and contamination-control standards that protect fragile, high-value material. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Operate automatic and semi-automatic cell-manufacturing equipment according to station Standard Work Instructions (SWI). 
• Follow all cleanroom gowning, ESD, and contamination-control requirements when handling wafers and cells. 
• Load, handle, and move wafers, cells, cassettes, and magazines using correct technique to minimize breakage and contamination. 
• Clean and prepare the workstation, equipment, and cassettes or tooling. 
• Perform in-process quality checks and electrical or visual testing as required by the assigned station. 
• Identify, mark, and segregate acceptable and defective wafers and cells. 
• Check finished cells for correct labeling, packaging, and configuration. 
• Record production, quality, and downtime information on the required station paperwork. 
• Maintain compliance with established policies, procedures, and 5S standards. 
• Complete other tasks as required and/or directed. 

Qualifications

Skills  

• Hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and the ability to distinguish between colors. 
• Ability to read, understand, and follow work instructions in English. 
• Careful, consistent handling of fragile, high-value material. 
• Basic computer literacy. 

Traits  

• Coachable and willing to learn. 
• Punctual and dependable 
• Team and customer oriented. 
• Attention to detail. 
• Problem Solving. 
• Ability to lift objects less than 25 pounds and team lift objects approximately 60 pounds. 
• Able to stand, walk and work on feet for 8+ hours. 

Education and/or Experience  

• High School Diploma or Equivalent 
• Production or manufacturing experience preferred; cleanroom experience an asset. 

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 a gowned cleanroom and typical manufacturing environment, including required PPE and ESD controls, noise, and temperature variation. 
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Additional Information

Additional Requirements:

• Candidates must have a valid passport and driver’s license with which to travel seamlessly through Canada, the USA, Europe and China.
• Ability to work overtime and weekends when required.
• Must be able to travel up to 50% of the time.

Technical Skills:

• Experience working with and troubleshooting robotics/controls systems, Control Logix PLCs and plant application controls and automation.
• Solid understanding of process safety principles, hazard identification, and risk assessment to ensure a safe working environment.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with cross-functional teams, present technical information, and liaise with stakeholders at all levels while exhibiting professional and courteous communication/interaction under pressure (both written and oral).
• Collaborate efficiently with external machine builders and system integrators throughout the detailed design, construction, and integration phases of machine system implementation.
• Strong organizational skills and a high level of self-motivation.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in using data analysis tools and software (e.g., Excel, Minitab) to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for process improvement.
• Demonstrated technical project management experience.
• Strong logical and methodical reasoning capabilities.
• Familiarity with Variable Frequency Drives and HMIs.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple issues in a fast-paced work environment.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office applications and AutoCAD software.

Compensation and Benefits

• • Competitive Market Wages
• • 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

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Additional Information

Silfab Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Any information provided during the application process will be maintained in accordance with applicable privacy laws and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) requirements.