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!
Job Summary:
We are seeking Field Quality Technicians to join us in Columbus, Ohio. This role is responsible for providing customer-facing technical support, system performance monitoring, site inspections, field diagnostics, warranty claim investigations, and minor repair coordination. The technician will identify and resolve PV module quality issues, support root cause analysis, manage field evidence and reporting, coordinate reverse logistics for validation testing, and drive corrective actions to ensure product reliability and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Customer Support & Warranty Management Provide on-site customer support and technical troubleshooting for customers. Investigate warranty claims and collect field evidence, test data, and technical documentation. Communicate field issues, investigation findings, and customer feedback to cross-functional teams. Coordinate replacement logistics, claims processing, and customer communications as required. 2. System Performance Monitoring Monitor PV system performance using operational data, I-V curve tracing, thermal imaging, and other diagnostic tools. Identify failure trends and early indicators of degradation, including hotspots, PID, and abnormal power loss. Analyze performance metrics such as Performance Ratio (PR) and specific yield to support corrective and preventive actions. 3. Site Inspection & Field Service Conduct site inspections using approved procedures, checklists, and sampling plans. Verify mechanical and electrical installation quality, including module mounting, torque requirements, and tracker interactions. Perform minor field repairs or coordinate module replacement activities. Ensure compliance with site EHS requirements, OSHA regulations, and electrical safety standards. 4. Field Failure Analysis & Root Cause Investigation Perform field diagnostics using:o I-V curve analysis o Thermal imaging o Insulation resistance testing o Visual and connector inspections Identify and document failure modes related to manufacturing, logistics, installation, or operating conditions. Coordinate reverse logistics with internal teams and third-party laboratories for validation testing when required. Prepare detailed investigation and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) reports, including test results and photographic evidence. Drive CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions) to improve product quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate's degree in electrical engineering, renewable energy, or a related field preferred. Minimum of 2 years of experience in customer service, product or manufacturing quality, or electronical construction, commissioning or Operation & Maintenance (O&M). Knowledge of OSHA electrical safety practices, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and site EHS requirements. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail. Excellent customer-facing communication and reporting skills. Ability to work independently in field environments. Willingness to travel domestically to customer sites on short notice.
Preferred Qualifications:
Hands-on experience with field diagnostic equipment, including I-V tracers, infrared cameras, and insulation resistance testers. Strong knowledge of PV systems and module technologies. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
NABCEP PV
Certification. Knowledge of NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 70E, and PV system requirements under NEC Article 690. Electrical Apprentice, Journeyman, or Master Electrician License. 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.
