Job Description

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA 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 1,500 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: 

As a Senior Equipment Engineer, you will play a key role in maintaining and enhancing the efficiency of Illuminate's manufacturing process. With a focus on maximizing equipment performance and minimizing downtime, you’ll serve as the technical owner for manufacturing tools, addressing challenges related to installation, maintenance, and continuous improvement. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, a deep understanding of equipment functionality, and the ability to coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to implement effective solutions. You’ll be instrumental in driving the reliability and growth of Illuminate’s manufacturing processes, ensuring that production goals are consistently met with high safety and quality standards. 

Responsibilities: 

• Serve as the primary tool owner in Illuminate’s manufacturing process, identifying problems and implementing solutions for equipment development and enhancement. 

• Oversee installation, modification, upgrades, and maintenance of equipment to ensure manufacturing efficiency and reliability. 

• Develop and implement programs to improve uptime and address equipment issues affecting the production process. 

• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for new tool installations, upgrades, and qualifications, ensuring they meet company standards. 

• Maintain and update equipment records, including manufacturers’ technical notices, upgrades, and safety information. 

• Define, document, and implement preventive maintenance schedules to maintain optimal equipment functionality. 

• Train and mentor Maintenance Technicians, providing guidance on troubleshooting and upkeep of equipment. 

• Other duties as assigned.  

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (equivalent experience may be considered) 

• 7+ years of technical experience in equipment engineering, ideally within renewable energy manufacturing 

• Strong knowledge of equipment engineering and maintenance practices in a manufacturing setting 

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project) 

• Experience with CAD software preferred 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration 

• Strong time management skills with the ability to manage tasks independently 

• Ability to work off-hours as required in a fast-paced manufacturing environment 

• This role is fully onsite at the Illuminate USA manufacturing facility 

• Must be able to work a 8-hour shift 

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30–40 lbs   

• Frequent walking throughout the production floor, warehouse areas, and outdoor facility spaces. 

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.