Metrology Engineer - SOLARCYCLE, Inc

About the role

We are seeking an innovative and experienced Metrology Engineer to spearhead our Metrology Department at our solar panel recycling/reuse facility in Odessa, TX. This role is crucial in driving our mission to advance the circular economy in the renewable energy sector. The Metrology team focuses on four main functional pillars:

• Testing and data acquisition of re-use eligible solar panels
• Monitoring and performance analysis of deployed second-life panels
• Managing material sample requests and operational data acquisition
• Ensuring quality assurance of output streams

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Strategy:
  • Develop and implement the strategic vision for the Metrology Department, aligning with SOLARCYCLE's mission and goals.
  • After ~ 6-12 months in the role, you may be asked to lead and mentor a team of Metrology Technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Engineering, and Operations, to integrate metrology insights into broader company strategies.
• Advanced Testing and Analysis:
  • Design and oversee comprehensive testing protocols for used solar panels, including Flash tests, Electroluminescence (EL) tests, and UV Fluorescence (UVF) tests.
  • Develop and implement sophisticated data analysis techniques to assess panel functionality, efficiency, and potential for reuse or recycling.
  • Lead the creation of predictive models for panel performance and lifespan.
  • Implement specialized testing and analysis procedures to identify and assess common solar panel defects, including:
  • Snail trails caused by chemical reactions within the panel's encapsulation material.
  • Hotspots due to localized shading, dirt, or manufacturing defects.
  • Shading and shadowing effects on energy production.
  • Microcracks resulting from mechanical stress or environmental factors.
  • Delamination issues, particularly moisture-related problems affecting the back sheet.
  • Potential Induced Degradation (PID) stemming from voltage potential differences.
  • Bypass diode failures that may lead to decreased energy output or hotspots.
  • Develop and refine methodologies for quantifying the impact of these defects on panel performance and longevity.
  • Create guidelines for determining whether panels with specific defects are suitable for reuse, require repair, or should be recycled.
• Performance Monitoring and Optimization:
  • Oversee the continuous measurement and recording of power output and efficiency of deployed second-life panels in the PV1 solar powerplant.
  • Develop efficient, tech-enabled methods for regular data gathering with minimal labor.
  • Manage periodic panel swaps to test different second-life units and optimize overall plant performance.
• Quality Assurance and Process Optimization:
  • Establish and maintain rigorous quality control standards for all metrology processes and Rec1 output streams.
  • Continuously optimize testing, sorting, and repair procedures to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability.
  • Develop and implement innovative solutions for automating and scaling metrology operations.
• Data Management and Reporting:
  • Oversee the development and management of robust data collection and analysis systems.
  • Generate comprehensive performance reports and analyses for stakeholders.
  • Ensure data integrity and implement best practices for data security and management.
• Sample Request Management:
  • Oversee the management and fulfillment of all material sample requests for research or commercial product-fit exploration.
  • Create comprehensive action plans involving multiple departments to execute on sample requests in a timely manner
  • Ensure timely and accurate delivery of samples to external parties.
• Research and Development:
  • Stay at the forefront of metrology advancements in the solar industry and related fields.
  • Initiate and lead R&D projects to enhance SOLARCYCLE's metrology capabilities and contribute to industry knowledge.
  • Collaborate with external partners and academic institutions on research initiatives.
• Project Management:
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans for metrology initiatives, including timelines, resources, and budgets.
  • Utilize project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) to effectively lead cross-functional teams in achieving metrology-related goals.
  • Manage project scope, identifying and mitigating risks, and ensuring timely delivery of project milestones.
  • Create and maintain project documentation, including charters, status reports, and post-project reviews.
  • Coordinate resource allocation across multiple concurrent projects within the Metrology department.
  • Implement and oversee project management tools and processes to enhance efficiency and transparency.
  • Conduct regular project status meetings with stakeholders, effectively communicating progress, issues, and solutions.
  • Manage vendor relationships and contracts related to metrology equipment and services.
  • Ensure alignment of metrology projects with SOLARCYCLE's overall strategic goals and circular economy initiatives.
  • Apply continuous improvement principles to refine project management processes within the Metrology department.
• Operational Excellence:
  • Manage the metrology department's budget, resources, and equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant safety and environmental regulations.
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all metrology processes.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in metrology, with at least 1 year in a leadership role.
• Deep expertise in solar panel technology, testing methodologies (including Flash, EL, and UVF tests), and industry standards.
• Strong background in data analysis, statistical methods, and predictive modeling.
• Proven track record of implementing innovative solutions in metrology or related fields.
• Excellence in project management; PMP certification or equivalent experience is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or similar tools).
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder projects in a technical environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical information for various audiences.
• Skilled in persuasion and collaboration to influence positive outcomes across many departments
• Experience with advanced metrology equipment and software platforms.
• Familiarity with circular economy principles and sustainability practices in the renewable energy sector.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel and ERP systems or databases.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry moderately heavy equipment and panels.
• Comfort working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Flexibility to stand, bend, and kneel for extended periods during testing and repair activities.
• Ability to become forklift certified

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Initially, you will not have direct supervisory responsibilities. As the department grows, you may be asked to hire and supervise a small team of Test and Metrology Technicians, with the opportunity to expand the team based on RE-USE panel testing demand.

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