Quality Technician

At Canadian Solar, our vision is to make lives better by bringing electricity powered by the sun to millions of people worldwide. As a leading manufacturer of solar panels, inverters, and energy storage solutions, we've been an industry front-runner since our founding in 2001. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in all parts of our organization as we navigate the complexities of a booming industry.

Throughout Canadian Solar's subsidiaries, e-Storage, Recurrent Energy, MSS and CSI Solar Co., we invest in our employees' growth. Our training programs and promotional opportunities ensure we all can continue to learn. We understand the importance of work-life balance and provide various flexible work options to support our employees' well-being. Join our team to "Make the Difference" by creating a lasting positive impact on the world and the communities where we operate.

Job Description

A Quality Technician ensures the quality and reliability of solar cells, raw materials, and components across specialized quality control (QC) areas. Reporting to the QC Supervisor or Quality Engineer, this role executes inspections, conducts tests, documents results, and supports issue resolution within a designated focus area (e.g., Incoming Quality Control, Outgoing Quality Control, Reliability Testing, Metrology, or In-Process Quality Control). Technicians adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs), regulatory standards (e.g., ISO), and customer specifications to maintain consistent product quality.

Core Responsibilities

• Adhere to SOPs, safety protocols, regulatory requirements (ISO 9001), and the company’s quality/environmental policies.
• Document test results, inspection data, and non-conformities accurately in quality management systems
• Report defects, discrepancies, or equipment issues to the QC Supervisor promptly.
• Maintain cleanliness and calibration of tools/equipment used in the assigned area.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (other department) to address quality concerns.
• Participate in training programs to stay updated on processes, standards, and new technologies.
• Perform other quality-related duties assigned by the Quality Manager and/or Supervisor to support organizational quality objectives.

Specialized Responsibilities by Area

1. Incoming Quality Control (IQC) Technician

• Inspect incoming raw materials (e.g., silicon wafers, chemicals) to ensure they meet purchase orders and quality standards.
• Test materials (e.g., thickness, purity) using tools.
• Reject non-conforming materials and work with suppliers/procurement to resolve issues.
• Track records of incoming quality, including pass/fail rates and supplier performance.

2. Outgoing Quality Control (OQC) Technician

• Perform final checks on finished product batches to confirm they meet customer and internal standards.
• Test sample cells (e.g., efficiency, EL/PL imaging) from each production lot.
• Verify product packaging, labels, and shipping documents.
• Approve/reject batches based on results; escalate problematic lots to the QC Supervisor.
• Create quality reports for customers or internal teams.

3. Reliability Testing Technician

• Run tests on solar cells to check long-term performance and durability.
• Monitor test conditions, record data (e.g., efficiency loss), and document failures.
• Help analyze results to spot reliability trends or design flaws.
• Maintain test equipment (e.g., chambers) and ensure accurate environmental controls (temperature, humidity).

4. Metrology Technician

• Calibrate and maintain precision tools (e.g., EL/PL imagers, IV curve tracers).
• Conduct routine checks to ensure equipment accuracy and compliance with ISO 17025.
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and coordinate repairs with maintenance or vendors.
• Document calibration records and train others on proper tool use.

5. In-Process Quality Control (IPQC) Technician

• Monitor solar cell production at key stages.
• Conduct inline inspections using measuring instruments.
• Collect real-time process data and compare it to specifications.
• Alert production teams to deviations and help adjust processes to prevent defects.
• Track yield rates and identify defect trends at specific manufacturing step.

Qualifications & Skills

• Associate’s degree in Electrical Technology, Materials Science, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum 3 years in quality control within manufacturing, with preference for solar cell fabrication, semiconductor, or renewable energy industries.
• Familiarity with the specific focus area (e.g., incoming inspections) is preferred.
• Quality management certifications (e.g., ASQ Certified Quality Technician) or specialized training (e.g., metrology, reliability testing) are a plus.
• Skilled with tools/equipment specific to the assigned area (e.g., imagers for OQC).
• Basic understanding of statistical process control (SPC) and quality metrics (e.g., CPK, yield).
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, spec sheets, and industry standards (ISO 9001).
• Proficient in office software (e.g., MS Excel for data analysis, Word for documentation).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Effective verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate cross-functionally.
• Basic problem-solving abilities to identify defects or process deviations.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, manage priorities, and follow instructions.

Working Conditions

• Primarily works in a manufacturing facility, including cleanrooms, labs or controlled-environment production areas.
• Potential exposure to low-level chemicals or equipment noise; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and required.
• This role works 12-hour shifts, which may include day, evening, or night shifts, depending on production needs. Occasional overtime may be needed to support production deadlines, urgent quality issue resolution, audit preparations or urgent tasks.
• May involve standing for extended periods, moving between workstations, and lifting.

Compensation and Benefits

Canadian Solar offers a competitive salary plus fully comprehensive benefits and performance bonus package based on an annual objective achievement. Our generous benefits package includes a 401(k) Retirement Plan, medical/dental/life/disability program, PTO and sick days. This is a full-time position.

Canadian Solar Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.