In just 6 months we've become a shell of our former selves - Anonymous employee First Solar Employee Review

2.0
Dec 9, 2016
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Sometime in 2018, we should be okay again Benefits are good Dress Code is relaxed You'll get to work on cool projects regardless of associate "status".

Cons

I've survived 3 sizeable layoffs in 5 years. While the market is to blame for the 2017 IPC cliff not being a cliff, the Chinese dumping panels and SunEdison going under, the new C-suite of 2016 have made some really bad calls. We decided to do - and then not do 5 Series modules and the structures that would go with them. We decided to look into - and then not look into methods of DC collection. All told, that's a lot of cash. First Solar has decided to ride out the storm and accelerate the technology roadmap. While that's all very good on the top, if we're not directly involved with de-commissioning current equipment, R&D, or installing the next equipment and spec'ing it in (or the skeleton crew supporting those activities), we're not needed. If we're not actively involved in the EPC projects in the short term, we're not needed. It's been brutal. I can't recommend employment here until 6 Series modules are selling and shipping.

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5.0
Feb 25, 2026
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Pros

People are very nice to work with

Cons

Career development opportunities are less

avatar
First Solar Response
4mo
Thank you for sharing your experience at First Solar. We’re happy to hear that you’ve enjoyed working with our team and found the people to be welcoming and supportive. We’re grateful for your contributions and for sharing your perspective with us. If you have any further thoughts or feedback, please feel free to connect with us at jobs@firstsolar.com.
4.0
Jul 14, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The work-life balance is great! The company will provide opportunities for professional growth.

Cons

Being on the corporate team, you kinda get lost in the flow of the day-to-day.

avatar
First Solar Response
1d
Thank you for your feedback and for being part of First Solar for more than three years. We're glad to hear that you've enjoyed a strong work-life balance and opportunities for professional growth. Creating an environment where associates can grow and thrive is something we value greatly. We also appreciate your thoughts on recognition and visibility. Feedback like yours helps us continue improving the associate experience and ensuring associates' contributions are recognized across the organization. Thank you again for sharing your perspective. If you'd like to provide additional insights, we encourage you to connect with us at jobs@firstsolar.com.
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