Archive for April, 2008

How It’s Made: Solar Panels

Tuesday, April 29th, 2008

 

Everyday, more and more people are exploring alternative, eco-friendly, ways of powering their homes and businesses from tankless water heaters to solar power to biofuels. Solar power has gained much attention as both a viable and affordable alternative to fossil fuels and the like. The Discovery Channel’s program, “How It’s Made”, takes viewers through the process of producing a solar panel for commercial use.

With so much attention focused on the benefits of solar power, it is interesting to see just what goes into producing a photovoltaic panel. Not only is the process surprisingly basic, it is quite “green” as well.

Director – Solar Factory Start Up Position – Santa Clara – California

Wednesday, April 23rd, 2008

Description:
Responsibilities:
This Director will report to the VP of Factory Projects, Solar Business Unit but will be expected to take direction and work closely with a wide range of Applied executives in Sales, Applied Global Services and the Solar Business Unit. This will be a high-level position with very broad responsibility and exposure.
The Factory Start Up Director will be a key factor in successful, on-time, high yield/quality start up and ramp. Customer payment schedules to Applied and future sales and service business will depend on high performance by the Applied team and high levels of customer satisfaction.
Will have full responsibility for all aspects of the local start up, including hiring and developing the local team (with the permanent manager), working with the customer on site readiness and supervising the Solar Business Unit/AGS start up team on site.
Will coordinate start up activities between the site and the solar business group and other support groups as needed.
Will be assigned to a specific customer and site several months before production starts and will continue until final factory-sign off and healthy local operations are in place.
Will hand-off responsibilities to a local Site Operations Manager.
Installation and warranty and service contracts for all products.
Managing of the spares service business.
Dealing with all customer satisfaction issues.
Establishing a business strategy.
Financial profit and loss of business in the assigned site.
Matrixed with functional heads of technology, finance, human resources, marketing, and legal on day to day responsibility over this function, but not tactical or strategic responsibility.
Other duties as assigned.
Will also be assigned various projects to help develop solar factory start-up and operations as core competencies within Applied Materials.
Extensive travel will be required. Temporary location to the customer location will be required.

Requirements
Qualifications:
Skills:
Previous experience in wafer-fab (semiconductor, display or solar) is required. (Engineering manager, production manager etc). Experience as an Applied site manager at a major customer site is highly desired.
Education:
BS or MS with 5 years of technical experience and 7 – 9 years of supervisory experience.

Company
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in its workforce.

*Check out this job and earn enough money to keep your teenagers supplied with acne solutions.

Solar Energy News Summary Week of 4-20

Sunday, April 20th, 2008

Mich. House starts passing comprehensive energy legislation
MLive.com – MI,USA
And Hemlock Semiconductor Corp. near Saginaw, which makes materials used in solar energy products, would get tax breaks based on electric costs if

Claymore Launches Global Solar ETF
ETFguide – Carlsbad,CA,USA
The index currently consists of 25 globally-listed investable public companies that specialize in providing solar energy products and services and uses

France set for rapid growth in photovoltaic technology
Creamer Media’s Engineering News – Garden View,South Africa
growth in photovoltaic sales is Europe’s leading solar energy company, Solarcentury, which specialises in building integrated solar energy products.
New Solar ETF Helps Spread Sector’s Risk
TheStreet.com – USA
The methodology for index construction is to select from companies that “specialize in providing solar energy products and services,” subject them to common
Suntech Power wins solar award from Frost & Sullivan
PV Tech – London,England,UK
provide the most innovative, highest quality solar energy products to customers around the world,” said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech’s Chairman and CEO

Worldwide Energy Ships First Order Of Solar Modules
Solar Industry – Oxford,CT,USA
and Manufacturing USA Inc. has received a solar module contract valued at $4.8 million from one of Europe’s largest end users of solar energy products

Residential Energy Efficiency Sales Specialist in New Jersey

Sunday, April 20th, 2008

Description:
Conducting residential energy assessments to identify energy efficiency improvement opportunities, performing technical diagnostic tests, completing detailed work orders for insulation and air sealing upgrades, and accurate reporting. Additional duties will include working with and supporting other CSG business units periodically, as determined by program needs.

Requirements
Applicants must have experience in residential construction or renovation, HVAC systems, and sales. Building Performance Institute (BPI) Professional Certification is a plus. Ideal candidates will also have:
? Strong communication, sales, reporting, and presentation
skills
? Ability to sell and close “in the home”
? Excellent organizational and time management skills
? The ability to learn and perform a variety of technical
diagnostic tests
? Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and
Outlook
? Experience with energy use analysis software
? Reliable transportation
? Availability to call on customers some evenings and
Saturdays
? Clean driving record, no DUIs
These are full time positions although some flexibility of schedule is possible. Will train the right individuals. Occasional travel may be required.
Salary: $45,000 – $55,000.
Benefits:
Compensation package includes paid holidays, 80% paid medical, 50% paid dental, paid life & AD&D and paid STD & LTD insurance coverage, plus employer matching retirement plan and paid training opportunities.
Submit Resume to: jobs-csg.icims.com
CSG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Company
For more than two decades, Conservation Services Group (CSG) has helped Americans make smart energy use decisions an important part of the way they live and work. CSG designs, develops, and delivers innovative, results-driven energy efficiency and renewable energy programs that get results. We bring our experience, expertise, creativity, and commitment to our goals of using environmentally responsible approaches in helping business and home owners lower costs, increase comfort, and improve indoor air quality; and in championing the development and use of renewable, alternative energy.
People who work at CSG say that it’s a unique kind of organization – one that nurtures individual talents and inspires dedication. We share a commitment to our work and our mission. CSG has a collegial atmosphere, where people respect and encourage each other to help the environment and change the way our country uses energy. How about you; do you see yourself as a part of our team? Check out all our job openings at http://jobs-csg.icims.com.
Current Job Opportunity Summary:
CSG is currently seeking experienced field sales staff for its Iselin, New Jersey Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program.

 

This is a hot career area.  A number of different professions from inspectors to appraisers even realtors are working to mix in to their service offerings some form of energy play.  This could be just the thing to revitalize and stabilize your career path as the country prepares to enter a recession and an energy crisis.  So if you are in New Jersey or even if you are in New York, call up those movers New York and consider making it affordable for people to keep their homes or find new ones.

Energy Modeler Needed in Boston MA

Sunday, April 20th, 2008

Description:
Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Clean Energy Program Research Director, the Modeler will:
Conduct modeling and spreadsheet analyses of proposed renewable energy, energy efficiency, and global warming policies at the state, regional, and national level;
Quantify energy, economic, environmental, and public health impacts of proposed policies;
Assist UCS staff in reviewing and developing model assumptions;
Identify and make model modifications, where appropriate;
Acquire and maintain energy and electricity sector models;
Maintain regular contact with modelers and energy analysts from other organizations and government agencies to keep up to date on the latest analyses and model developments;
Review analyses from other organizations and government agencies;
Assist UCS staff in writing reports, papers, and fact sheets highlighting the results of various analyses; and
Prepare and give presentations on modeling results and reports at conferences and meetings.

Requirements
Qualifications: Knowledge of energy and electricity sector models, and their application for analyzing renewable energy, efficiency, and electricity technologies, markets, and policies. Applicants should possess an advanced degree in engineering, mathematics, computer science, economics, or related field, or equivalent experience. Strong quantitative, analytical, and research skills are required. Proficiency with computer models, spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation software is necessary. Familiarity with energy efficiency technologies, policies, costs, and benefits is helpful.
Experience: Position requires at least 2-3 years of experience using energy and electricity sector models, with more experience preferred. Familiarity with and experience using the Energy Information Administration’s National Energy Modeling System and electricity capacity expansion models is highly desirable. Computer programming experience and skills are also strongly preferred.

Company
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is seeking an Energy Modeler to conduct analysis and modeling of clean energy and global warming policies at the state, regional and national level. The candidate will work with a multi-disciplinary team in our Clean Energy Program to advance strong clean energy policies. Candidates must have a solid background in energy modeling and the energy field in general.
UCS is a leading science-based nonprofit organization working for a healthy planet and a safer world. UCS was founded in 1969 and currently has a membership and activist base of more than 100,000, a staff of over 100, and offices in Cambridge (MA), Washington (DC), and Berkeley (CA).

 

***Position sounds like a strong fit for mathematicians and can have a profound impact on the future course of energy source development.  You won’t find a silk farm modeler position achieving this type of benefit for the country or the world refining better silk bedding.

BP Looking for Design Engineer

Thursday, April 17th, 2008

Description:
Working knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering principles; able to perform analyses using 3D modeling and FEA software. Ability to plan and carry out experiments, including assembly of special purpose test equipment as needed. Proficient at creating and manipulating engineering drawings using most recent versions of AutoCAD, Cosmos, and Solidworks. Ability to read and interpret documents such as product and component specifications, bills of materials, and test reports. Must be able to work and liase with Universities and other 3rd party design institutions. A key part of this will be to ensure that information is properly understood and acted upon. Good oral and written communication skills including Excel, Word and PowerPoint skills. Ability to work and perform according to BP Solar HSE rules and guidlelines. Will be ASA trained.
Responsibilities
Develop new products for BP Solar. To design their electrical and mechanical aspects of the products to work closely with the BP Solar Performance units in all three regions to design-in required product attributes.
To research and develop new materials which in turn offers new concepts. To be innovative in the application of these new materials. Coordinate with Lab and production personnel as needed for processing of samples for tests and trial runs.
Set up test apparatus, including measuring and recording devices. Conduct experiments to obtain required data. Maintain complete and accurate records pertaining to experiments, and present data in a graphical, tabular or written form as required.
Analyze data to check accuracy, ensure validity, and interpret results. Use this data for predictive analysis and also perform failure mode effect analysis (FMEA) to help determine potential break down mechanisms. The results of which will be used to influence design for better than six sigma reliability.
Generate all documentation for new designs including MoC such as EPA and ECO. Follow either TCVP (Technology Common Value Process) or NPA (New Product Authorization) project management protocol to initiate and justify design spend. Must be able to create business cases.

Requirements
B.S degree in engineering with mechanical or electrical emphasis preferred.
Must be experienced in the use of AutoCAD and have a good general knowledge of MS Office package programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). A working knowledge of MS Project is important. Experience with SolidWorks and COSMOS software is highly preferred.
Must be fluent in spoken and written English. Spanish or German as a second language would be valuable.
Health, Safety, and Environment.
This job requires responsibility for your own personal safety, the safety of co-workers, the safe operation of equipment, and proper maintenance of the company’s property. Individual must comply with all applicable HSE rules and regulations. To be successful, an individual must perform all work in a safe manner, report all unsafe conditions through Yellow Card system. The individual must be ASA trained and have HSE targets in their annual performance contract.

Company
The Solar Business Unit is a large, global organization involved in the design, manufacturing, marketing and sales of photovoltaic solar panels and systems. BP Solar is part of the BP Alternative Energy portfolio. The business currently has marketing operations in over twenty countries in North America, Europe and Asia with a strong presence of both business assets and human resources in the USA, Spain and Australia. Additional manufacturing and sales operations are conducted through joint ventures and/or subsidiaries in India, China, France and Hong Kong.
BP plans to invest $8bln in Alternative Energy over the next 10 years. BP Solar expects to more than double the size of its current business over the next 24 months.

Relocation:
Within USA

Location:
Frederick, MD

Compensation:
70-95k w/additional variable pay component

 

 

*This would definitely be a great job with a great company looking to grow into new areas of energy production and management.  Consider that unlike some solar power start up companies BP has a very long history and very good funding.  This is not going to be one of those operations that requires you to fund your own laptop computers.

Photovoltaic Recruiting Firm Seeking Top Photovoltaic Engineers

Thursday, April 17th, 2008

Description:
Our clients have retained us to assist them in hiring top engineers, scientists, technical managers and sales and marketing professionals for the photovoltaic (PV) industry. We are working with a wide range of companies from start-ups to mature players located throughout the world.
Your background information will be kept in the strictest confidence and we will not release any information to our clients without first discussing the opportunity with you and receiving your approval to proceed.

Requirements
Key technical experiences include photo-electric characterization of test structures and solar cells, laser scribing / ablation, multilayer sputter and CVD coating R&D and process engineering, reliability engineering, system planning and integration and organic, CdTe, CIGS and silicon cell and module product development.
Desirable sales and marketing experiences include PV and solar industry large project (MW) development, RECs, installation, team building, setting up sales distribution networks and trade show management. NABCEP certified candidates are of great interest. Our clients are seeking leaders who can wear many hats during the initial stages.

Company
PVPEOPLE.NET – Recruiting Firm
We are a contingency and retained recruiting firm specializing in the photovoltaic (PV) industry. We deliver top industry talent who has been confidentially located, qualified and reference checked. Key positions in manufacturing and research and development that we work on are process engineers, design engineers, materials and research scientists, engineering and operations managers, and Lean-Sigma/quality assurance engineers. We also specialize in industry business development and marketing professionals.

Relocation:
Negotiable

Location:
United States

Compensation:
Open

 

 

*Now most people look for recruiters about as much as they search for the best anti wrinkle cream on the internet, but in an emerging and suddenly hot industry, working with a recruiting firm that specializes in Photovoltaic jobs could be a smart move.

Looking for 2 – Senior Engineer I – Chemical, Process Modeling and Simulation with TechnoEconomic Analysis

Saturday, April 5th, 2008

Description:
Senior Engineer I – Chemical, Process Modeling and Simulation with TechnoEconomic Analysis
(*Two positions available)
Requisition #: E5100-1790
Summary
This position, part of the Biorefinery Analysis team within NREL’s National Bioenergy Center, performs process design and economic analysis of biomass-based processes. The program scope includes research and engineering on biomass characterization as well as collection and conversion for government and private industry—a major Department of Energy (DOE) and presidential initiative.
Duties
Working under the supervision of senior analysts and researchers, this engineer will develop models for unit operations and use the models to predict the effect of scale-up and process improvements on performance targets. This engineer will also develop cost estimates for processes and perform economic analyses under supervision. This individual will document work in detailed technical memos and internal milestone reports. This individual will contribute to publications and presentations of key results in peer-reviewed journals and at regional, national, and international scientific meetings and conferences.

Requirements
Minimum Requirements
Master’s degree related to chemical/biochemical process development work, or equivalent relevant experience, plus a minimum of six years of relevant experience. Demonstrated knowledge in use of advanced process modeling software (ASPEN Plus and EXCEL), as well as expertise in mathematical modeling, process control, and analysis. Ability to work well in a team or independently with limited supervision. Demonstrated excellence in applying knowledge and know-how, and modern software and hardware tools to solve practical problems. Required attributes include: highly proficient verbal, presentation, and written communication abilities; exemplary interpersonal communication; conflict resolution and multitasking skills; creativity; innovative; and adaptability.
Preferred
Ph.D. in chemical/bio engineering with extensive experience in a relevant applied R&D. Experience in an industry environment of process modeling and development of modeling software tools applied to complex chemical/bio processing. Ability to technically converse with engineers and chemists performing biomass conversion using microbial physiology, fermentation, enzymatic hydrolysis systems, thermochemical conversion and catalytic cracking, and processes monitoring and control. Experience with scale-up to pilot or larger scales. Skillful at interfacing with industrial clients and stakeholders. Experience with annual project/budget planning exercises. Proven ability to meet deadlines on schedule and within budget. Interest in mentoring junior staff in key skill areas and helping to ensure efficient research progress through appropriate application of statistical experimental design and quality control principles. Demonstrated knowledge of software such as Access, AutoCAD, TEAM, and Crystal Ball is a plus.
________________________________________
Pre-employment drug testing required.
Submit Your Resume
Please submit your resume and cover letter by email (single document if possible), fax, or mail to:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Human Resources (Requisition #E5100-1790)
1617 Cole Boulevard
Golden, CO 80401
Fax: 303/384-7570
[email protected] (use only for incoming resumes and cover letters; no inquiries)
Please be sure to reference the requisition number for the specific position in which you are interested.
NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a drug-free workplace.

Relocation:
Negotiable

Location:
Golden, Colorado

 

*Looking for a job that makes a difference, tired of analyzing the molecular structure of the varnish used to cover bedroom furniture?  Want to help save the world a little bit at a time?  Consider a job in the solar industry!

National Renewable Energy Laboratory Seeking Writer – Editor – Project Manager

Friday, April 4th, 2008

Description:
Communicator II – Writer/Editor
Requisition #: E8400-1869
Summary
The Program Support Office (PSO) has an open Communicator II position as part of the Corporate and Strategic Section. The position functions primarily as a writer, project manager, and editor of Web sites and print and visual products for internal corporate clients and employee communications.
Duties
The Communicator II supports employee engagement strategies by creating products that advance internal communications objectives and align with laboratory and corporate office priorities. This position will be responsible for coordinating the development of products such as Web sites, brochures, fact sheets, presentations, online training modules, internal newsletter articles, memos, and other internal communications. The Communicator II will be responsible for writing, editing, and leading project teams; and working closely with colleagues such as writers, editors, Web producers, and designers to develop and deliver products. The job includes: working with clients and client representatives to ensure the communications needs of the clients are met; providing advice and guidance on strategic internal communications; preparing cost estimates and project charters as required; and ensuring projects meet deadlines and budget expectations. Following NREL editorial style, complying with NREL print and electronic publication policies, and ensuring high-quality products are required.

Requirements
Minimum Requirements
The Communicator II position requires a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, science, or engineering and three to five years of relevant work experience. He or she must be able to:
• Demonstrate effective writing capabilities, including: writing content, editing, and coordinating the production of internal and external Web sites
• Demonstrate strong project management and client-relationship skills
• Coordinate print and electronic layout and design
• Produce communications products for internal audiences
• Work on multiple, complex communications projects
• Demonstrate excellent oral communication skills
• Develop clear, effective, and persuasive oral presentations using Power Point presentation software
• Work in a collaborative team environment and interact with various levels of management
• Work with personal computer word-processing, Internet browser, and e-mail applications.
Preferred
Five or more years of relevant corporate communications experience working in a scientific or technical environment to deliver effective internal and employee communications is preferred. Familiarity with renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies is also a plus.
________________________________________
Pre-employment drug testing required.
Submit Your Resume
Please submit your resume and cover letter by email (single document if possible), fax, or mail to:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Human Resources (Requisition #E8400-1869)
1617 Cole Boulevard
Golden, CO 80401
Fax: 303/384-7570
[email protected] (use only for incoming resumes and cover letters; no inquiries)
Please be sure to reference the requisition number for the specific position in which you are interested.
NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a drug-free workplace.

Job Status:
Full Time

Relocation:
Negotiable

Location:
Golden, Colorado

 

*If you are a writer or communications expert and want to move into one of the hottest growing industries in the world, here is your opportunity.  The HDMI cables are burning up over jobs like this so do not delay.

Solar Energy Sales Internship in San Francisco

Thursday, April 3rd, 2008

Description:
Want to get into the hottest industry of this century? Want to help fight global warming, and secure a cleaner energy future for this country?
Sun First Solar is beginning a training class for all who are interested in learning Sun First sales, project management, and business development skills. This invaluable training will turn you into a skilled and experienced solar industry worker.
At the end of the training you could choose to continue with Sun First in outside sales, or as a full time employee in a variety of roles! We are looking for enthusiastic, hard working and creative people who care about promoting clean energy.
Please contact Anna at 415-458-5870 or at [email protected] for more information. This is an excellent opportunity not to be missed – you can even train while still maintaining your current job!
For more information on Sun First, industry leader since 1984, please visit www.sunfirstsolar.com

Requirements
This Internship is meant for enthusiastic, hard working, creative and passionate people who want to get into the solar industry. Prior sales, project management, or business development experience is a plus.

Company
Sun First Solar has been an industry leader since 1984. We install PV (on and off grid systems), solar hot water, and pool systems. We are a small, family-style organization that provides a fun and interactive office environment.

Job Type:
Intern/Fellowship

Job Status:
Part Time

Relocation:
None

Location:
San Francisco Bay Area, CA

Compensation:
15% Commission during training, possible salary and commission

 

*The job market is on the brink of a recession.  If you want to leave college with a good job opportunity, then now is the time to line up a hot internship.  There is nothing hotter than the solar power industry right now and that covers all aspects of work from marketing to sales to engineering.  Unless you want to end up writing marketing copy for next to nothing about acne treatment check out this solar energy internship now!

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