DUTIES

1. Role Responsibilities:

• Develop new and evolve/improve existing equipment for the Manufacturing lines in Operations.
• Plan, design, and execute mechanical projects and programs related to solar panel silicon recycling and CdTe panel recycling.
• Guide and inform the R&D fabrication, assembly, and testing efforts of prototypes and equipment that may eventually come into Manufacturing.
• Help establish technical drawings, specifications, and documentation for new equipment, and continuously improve this documentation with lessons learned.
• Lead and drive program efforts to ensure new equipment come into the manufacturing environment meeting specifications with a roadmap of continuous improvement to reach better process capability.
• Provide feedback and lessons learned as guidance to the R&D team for their continued development of cutting edge new tools.
• Drive and own Equipment procurement review processes and reporting to ensure there are specifications that new tools are to follow and be graded against as they ramp into high volume manufacturing.

2. Mechanical Design & Development:

• Plan, design, and execute mechanical projects and programs related to solar panel silicon recycling and CdTe panel recycling in a high volume manufacturing environment.
• Guide and give R&D feedback to early tool and prototype development of tools and equipment.
• Establish and drive equipment improvement and process capability roadmaps.

3. Hands-on Execution:

• Actively participate in the acceptance specifications, fabrication, assembly, and testing of manufacturing equipment.
• Collaborate with the R&D team and provide technical expertise throughout the development process.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues during the prototype and equipment testing phase.

4. Documentation & Reporting:

• Prepare documentation required for tools/equipment to operate in a manufacturing environment (Operating Instruction and Standard Operating Procedures, Preventative Maintenance Specifications).
• Maintain accurate records and reporting of programs plans and progress.

5. Collaboration & Support:

• Work closely within Operations and R&D to ensure alignment with project goals and objectives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including researchers, engineers, and technicians, to integrate mechanical components into the recycling lines.
• Provide technical support and guidance to the R&D team and assist with problem- solving activities, using manufacturing lessons learned and needed continuous improvements.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This position may have future supervisory duties.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. Advanced degrees or relevant certifications are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mechanical design and development, with a proven track record of delivering successful projects.
• Extensive hands-on experience in designing, and building tools or equipment for a manufacturing and operations environment.
• Proficiency in CAD software for mechanical design, such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
• Strong expertise in mechanical engineering principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and develop innovative solutions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, with a track record of effectively leading and mentoring engineering teams.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with solar panel silicon recycling and CdTe panel recycling processes is a plus.