In-Process Quality Assurance Engineer

T1 Energy is bringing solar manufacturing back to the U.S. by building a domestic solar supply chain. Our mission is to invigorate America with scalable, reliable, and low-cost energy. Our fully operational 5GW solar module facility in Wilmer, Texas, can manufacture more than 20,000 modules every 24 hours. By the time you finish reading this paragraph, we will have produced two solar panels that will power American homes and fuel domestic AI. We're focused on building advanced American manufacturing and we're passionate about engineering a better future filled with abundant energy.

The Role

T1 Energy is seeking an experienced IPQA Engineer to join our Module Quality Assurance team. Reporting to the Quality Assurance Supervisor, you will serve as the technical owner of in-process quality across our advanced automated manufacturing lines. You will develop and maintain control plans, lead process audits, drive root cause investigations, and implement data-driven controls to ensure every module meets the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate has strong analytical skills, hands-on experience with precision measurement tools, and thrives in a high-volume advanced manufacturing environment.

What You’ll Do

In-Process Inspection & Audits

• Conduct detailed quality inspections and process audits throughout the production line to assess product and process adherence to quality systems and technical documentation.

• Identify quality abnormalities, process deviations, and recurring defects impacting product quality or production output.

• Isolate, label, and classify non-conforming or defective materials from the production line.

Troubleshooting & CAPA

• Lead troubleshooting of in-process quality issues using structured root cause analysis tools such as 8D, 5-Why, and Fishbone.

• Drive CAPA development, implementation, and effectiveness verification for quality escapes and recurring issues.

• Partner with process and manufacturing engineers on corrective actions during NPI and process changes.

Process Control & Documentation

• Implement and maintain SPC methods and control charts to proactively detect process drift.

• Develop and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and control plans to ensure process consistency and repeatability.

• Contribute to FMEA development during NPI and process change activities.

Laboratory & Calibration

• Oversee daily laboratory sampling and testing activities (tensile strength, material verification, chemical testing) per the plant sampling plan.

• Monitor, test, and maintain lab equipment and inspection gauges; ensure all tools are calibrated according to compliance requirements.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Record inspection and laboratory results; analyze data to identify and surface quality trends to the Quality Assurance Supervisor and engineering leadership.

• Own key quality metrics and develop reports to communicate findings and drive accountability.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Process, Engineering, and Production teams to support production targets and drive quality improvements.

• Train and provide technical guidance to IPQA technicians to ensure inspection consistency across all shifts.

• Support audits, trials, and improvement initiatives as required.

Who You Are

• Solid understanding of in-process quality control and inspection methodologies in a manufacturing environment.

• Familiarity with SPC, data analysis, and basic process control concepts.

• Working knowledge of root cause analysis tools (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone) and CAPA processes.

• Hands-on knowledge of precision measurement tools and ability to read technical blueprints.

• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and standard quality auditing practices.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; ERP/MES experience a plus.

• Strong attention to detail and accurate documentation habits.

• Effective communicator across shifts, departments, and leadership levels.

• Hands-on mindset with the ability to work directly on the manufacturing floor.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field required.

• 3–5 years of quality engineering experience in a manufacturing environment; solar, semiconductor, electronics, or advanced manufacturing experience preferred.

• Familiarity with SPC, FMEA, control plans, precision measurement tools, and technical drawings.

• Basic understanding of ISO 9001, SOPs, and quality auditing practices.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office; ERP/MES or quality database experience is a plus.

• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.

• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.

The T1 Way

We move fast, expect accountability, and treat people with respect. We also have a no-jerks policy: we don't tolerate big egos, bad behavior or "that's not my job attitude". Be sharp, be honest, be human. If you can hold the line and have a sense of humor, you'll fit right in.

T1 Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected characteristics.