Senior Solar Module Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer; Ohio

Senior Solar Module Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer (Ohio)

Kiwa PI Berlin is seeking a Senior Solar Module Manufacturing Quality Assurance Engineer to provide independent, third‑party quality oversight of PV module production for North American clients. This is a regional position based in the Columbus Metro Area, with most work allowing the engineer to return home daily. When production in Ohio is not active, the role may travel to other U.S. manufacturing locations for the duration of specific projects.

This role is hands‑on, manufacturing‑focused, and offers the potential to take on leadership responsibility for local QA Inspectors as the regional program grows.

• Perform independent inspections, including Pre‑Shipment Inspection, Container Loading Checks, Pre‑Shipment Testing, and Factory Acceptance Tests.
• Verify that production processes and inspection activities meet all contractual QA/QC requirements.
• Conduct process audits across all PV module manufacturing stages.
• Review EL/IV data, sampling results, and factory test records.
• Identify and document defects, deviations, and systemic risks.
• Represent client interests objectively inside the manufacturing facility as a third‑party engineer.
• Support root‑cause analysis and verification of corrective actions.
• Assist with pre‑shipment validation and documentation.
• Collaborate with global Kiwa QA teams and U.S. project managers.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in Kiwa’s QA program.
• Future potential to supervise local QA Inspectors as regional operations expand.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Materials, Industrial Engineering, or similar.
• 4–8+ years of experience in solar module manufacturing, PV reliability, factory QA, or supplier quality engineering.
• Experience performing independent or third‑party inspections or audits.
• Strong understanding of PV module manufacturing, defect modes, and IEC/UL standards.
• Ability to interpret EL imaging, IV curves, SPC data, and factory test results.
• Proven communication and technical writing skills.

• Experience with PSI/CLC/PST/FAT inspections.
• Background in tier‑1 PV manufacturing or buyer‑side QA.
• Familiarity with 8D, PFMEA, RCA, SPC.

• Must reside within the Columbus Metro Area.
• Most work allows the engineer to return home daily.
• Travel to other U.S. manufacturing locations may be required for full project durations.
• Occasional off‑shift (evening or overnight) and weekend assignments may be required based on factory schedules.

• Competitive senior‑level engineering salary.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match.
• PTO and paid holidays.
• Company‑paid travel in accordance with Kiwa policy.

• Mid‑Senior level

• Full‑time

• Engineering and Information Technology