OBA Quality Inspector

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. 

We are seeking OBA (Out-of-Box Audit) inspectors to join our new factory in Columbus, Ohio. This role is responsible for performing end-of-line outbox inspections to ensure photovoltaic (PV) modules comply with product specifications, customer requirements and applicable industry standards prior to shipment. The position Focuses on defect detection, accurate documentation, traceability verification, and shipment readiness.

Key Responsibilities:  

• OBA Sample Preparation 

• Select OBA samples according to approved OBA sampling plans, including AQL, customer-specific, or risk-based sampling. 

• Coordinate with warehouse teams to retrieve packed modules from pallets or containers safely. 

• Verify correct pallet identification, and module serial numbers prior to opening samples. 

• Properly open, reseal, and re-pack cartons after inspection to avoid secondary damage. 

• Clearly identify and mark OBA samples to maintain traceability throughout the OBA process.

• Ensure all sample handling activities comply with safety, packaging, and ESD requirements. 

• Perform daily OBA inspections in accordance with the approved control plan, including ISO 2859-1 / AQL sampling and customer-specific sampling requirements. 

• Conduct comprehensive cosmetic, functional, and safety inspections, including but not limited to:  

• Visual Inspection: cells, busbars & ribbons, glass, frame, junction box, label, packaging, connectors & cables, sealant/encapsulation, safety distance, and overall workmanship. 

• Electrical Performance: flash test, power output, bypass diode functionality, Electroluminescence (EL) test. 

• Safety Tests: Insulation resistance, grounding continuity, Hi-Pot test, thermal imaging. 

• Dimensional and Label Checks: dimensions, weight, packaging integrity and handling, and label accuracy (UL/IEC marks, serials, QR). 

• Verify full traceability between PV module serial numbers, pallets, and lot numbers.  

• Review and confirm availability, accuracy, and linkage of quality records, including EL images, IV test results, and safety tests documentation. 

• Identify, contain, tag and segregate nonconforming products, initiate Nonconformance Reports (NCRs) as  and support disposition activities in accordance with MRB guidance.

• Accurately record OBA inspection results in inspection checklists and/or digital tools, ensuring proper retention of objective evidence. 

• Immediately escalate critical or systemic quality issues and support containment and feedback actions with production and quality teams. 

• Verify that  corrective actions and containment measures are implemented prior to shipment release.  

• Support customer-specific quality criteria and special inspection requirements.  

• Participate in continuous improvement activities, including updates to inspection standards, defect libraries, and inspection effectiveness. 

Qualifications:  

• Associate’s degree or equivalent , quality, engineering, or technical background preferred. 

• Minimum 5 years of experience in PV module manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, or quality inspection in a production environment. 

• Strong visual acuity and attention to detail; ability to read and interpret EL images and IV test summary. 

• Basic quality knowledge, including AQL sampling, NCR, and defect classification. 

• Basic understanding of electrical principles and PV module testing. 

• Ability to recognize abnormal IV curves, EL image patterns, and test result deviations. 

• Proven ability to Safe handling of boxed and unboxed PV modules. 

• Basic knowledge of PV module structure and common defects. 

• Capability to operate test equipment and perform basic troubleshooting.  

• Proficiency with MES or other digital inspection and documentation systems. 

• Ability to work independently, follow standardized inspection procedures, and communicate findings clearly. 

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.​