Reliability Lab Technician

Job Description

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 currently looking for a Reliability Laboratory Technician Associate for our new factory in Columbus, Ohio. This is an introductory role within the Reliability Laboratory and is primarily responsible for supporting reliability testing activities and day-to-day laboratory operations. The Reliability Laboratory Technician will help facilitate test work by moving and staging solar modules, loading and unloading test equipment, and accurately recording test data in accordance with established procedures. This position will work closely with Associate Engineers and Engineers to ensure that testing is performed safely and efficiently in compliance with internal and industry standards.

Candidates should be able to regularly lift up to 50 lbs and be motivated to develop their skills and knowledge.

Responsibilities:

Daily Laboratory Testing Support

• Assist with reliability testing (e.g., I-V, Insulation, Mechanical Load, and environmental tests) under the direction of engineers and managers. Move, lift, and stage solar modules and related materials between storage areas, preparation areas, and test equipment. Load and unload solar modules into test chambers, fixtures, and simulators following approved procedures and safety guidelines. Perform basic preparatory work, including labeling, visual checks, and packaging of modules for testing or shipment.

Standards Compliance & Documentation

• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and laboratory guidelines that are aligned with ISO 17025 and relevant industry standards such as IEC 61215 and 61730. Accurately record test conditions, observations, and results, ensuring data is complete and legible.

Equipment Care & Basic Maintenance

• Perform basic housekeeping and care of laboratory equipment, including cleaning work areas, fixtures, and test tools. Support the Laboratory Manager in tracking equipment usage and logging module movements or test status, as requested. Report any equipment issues, abnormalities, or safety concerns immediately to the laboratory manager or an engineer.

Quality, Safety & Customer Support

• Follow all safety protocols, use required personal protective equipment (PPE), and help maintain a clean, orderly, and safe laboratory environment. Assist with arranging and demonstrating simple aspects of testing during internal or customer visits, as directed. Support quality and reliability objectives by carefully following instructions and promptly communicating any issues or non-conformances.

Continuous Learning & Improvement

• Participate in on-the-job training to build technical skills, understanding of reliability testing, and familiarity with solar module technology. Demonstrate a desire to grow into more advanced roles within the Reliability Laboratory by taking initiative and seeking to learn new tasks. Identify opportunities to improve workflow, organization, or efficiency and share suggestions with the Reliability team.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks or projects assigned by laboratory managers or engineers.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Associate Degree or equivalent is required. Experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, laboratory, or other hands-on technical environment is preferred. Automotive, semiconductor, or solar industry experience is a plus.

Technical Proficiency

• Comfort working with basic hand tools, mechanical fixtures, and handling large components or assemblies is preferred. Basic computer skills and the ability to learn simple data entry in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) or other lab systems is preferred. Willingness and ability to learn laboratory testing procedures, equipment operation basics, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are required.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to follow written and verbal instructions consistently is required. Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including regularly lifting (up to 50 lbs), moving, and positioning solar modules with appropriate assistance or team lifts is required. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with managers and coworkers is required.

Work Ethic & Mindset

• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and commitment to following safety and quality protocols is required. High level of initiative and willingness to take ownership of assigned tasks is required. Desire to develop and grow within the Reliability Laboratory, building skills that can lead to promotion into more advanced technical roles is preferred.

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.

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.