Used to be a great company... - MES Developer III First Solar Employee Review

2.0
Nov 12, 2015
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good pay and benefits. Ability to work remotely. Schedule flexibility. Ability to determine which technology was utilized for different projects relative to software development.

Cons

Compensation has steadily degraded over the years for those below the director level while the executives continue to line their pockets on the backs of those actually manufacturing the product which is typical corporate America but that doesn't make it any more tolerable. First Solar used to have an aggressive long-term incentive program and a great bonus. The long-term incentive program is gone and the bonuses have been cut in half. Again, the incentives for the executives are fantastic. Just take a look at insider trading activity and you can see all the stock options they receive. You have no control over your working environment. If the lights are too bright...too bad. First Solar likes to try to push a myriad of initiatives forward at any given time with unrealistic deadlines as well as insufficient resources in order to complete the work. First Solar also likes to constantly shift gears ensuring that few things are actually completed properly. There are many people that just don't provide any value yet they continue to collect a paycheck. First Solar used to be great. Now, it's just more of the same. There isn't anything special about the company anymore.

Explore other reviews about First Solar

5.0
Jan 12, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great culture and opportunities for growth. I feel encouraged to speak up if I have a way to improve a process.

Cons

Room to enhance internal communication processes as company grows.

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First Solar Response
5mo
Thank you for sharing your experience as a current member of the Finance team. We're glad to hear that you value our culture, growth opportunities, and the encouragement to speak up and improve processes. We also appreciate your note on strengthening internal communication as we continue to grow. Feedback like this helps guide our ongoing improvements. If you’d like to share additional thoughts, we welcome you to reach out at jobs@firstsolar.com.
2.0
Jun 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Laid back work environment with good technology

Cons

AWFUL PAY and Raises . Low balling employees

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First Solar Response
1mo
Thank you for sharing your feedback and for your contributions over the past year. We’re sorry to hear your concerns regarding compensation, as supporting the wellbeing of our associates and ensuring they feel valued and cared for is a top priority for us. Feedback like yours is important as we continue to evaluate how we support and recognize our team. If you’d like to share additional insights, we encourage you to connect with us at jobs@firstsolar.com.
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