R&D Intern

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