Solar Technician III

The Solar Technician III is a seasoned technician/professional that demonstrates a strong working knowledge of both AC/DC electrical and Data Acquisition/Monitoring systems on distributed generation scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants. They will be responsible for corrective maintenance and operation of assigned solar projects to ensure optimal generation performance of the company’s solar photovoltaic (PV) plant portfolio. Overall responsibilities will include routine maintenance on solar equipment, providing oversight for complex work, assisting with technical project scope creation, and maintaining records of completed tasks and equipment status. Troubleshoot solar equipment safely with minimal help and supervision.

The Solar Tech III will work closely with the Operations/Asset Management teams to safely achieve overall Solar performance goals. This position will be remote and will cover projects throughout MA, CT, RI, with occasional support in northern NY.

Responsibilities Overview

• The Solar Technician III is responsible for troubleshooting and repairing all equipment associated with solar facilities up to the medium voltage equipment.

• Work safely under all circumstances, seek guidance regarding unfamiliar work to ensure safety and understanding of tasks to be performed

• Manage work order system to ensure assign sites meet or exceed the weather adjusted performance targets, monitor assigned sites.

• Keep track of work performed and update work orders.

• Perform “status” checks including clearing “error” codes on solar equipment, make necessary repairs under supervision.

• Respond “on-call” as directed by supervisor to assist in emergency equipment repairs

• Performs/assists with technical and administrative duties associated with operating and maintaining a solar portfolio.

• Attention to detail and safety focused

• Perform advanced level troubleshooting for component repair and replacements with proficient use of specialized tools and diagnostic processes

• Perform QA/QC inspections in accordance with applicable SOP

• Assist Project managers and Asset managers with technical scope creation and root cause analysis

• Safely measure DC and AC voltage and current utilizing a multimeter meter.

• Replace or repair solar parts and/or equipment with no supervision

• Understand electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic functions of all components of solar site and associated equipment.

• Ensures work is performed in accordance with Environmental and Safety requirements.

• May perform work independently and/or in work crews, depending upon skills and experience.

• Maintain company tooling, facilities and equipment and a clean safe work environment

• Identify electrical, environmental, and safety hazards associated with photovoltaic (PV) installations.

• Become part of the team and prepared to learn new tasks.

• Perform additional duties as required

• Overnight travel as needed

• Conduct maintenance of equipment (fueling, lubrication, etc.)

• Lift and move equipment as needed (up to 50 pounds)

• Responsible for the operation and maintenance of solar power plants in accordance with established standards and procedures; always maintains safety and professionalism

• Provide a working knowledge of troubleshooting electrical components with help and use of digital multi-meters, meggers, amp clamps, and similar equipment. Tests installed equipment, ensuring proper working order including daily mechanical electrical inspections

Basic Qualifications

• Knowledgeable technician/professional with four or more years of experience with solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant experience.

• Demonstrated knowledge of SCADA, DAS and communication networks, protocols, and software.

• Demonstrate commitment and participation in developing an accident-free work environment

• Effective communication skills both written and verbal

• Technical understanding of solar generation and energy storage

• In field / hands on experience in solar construction and operation

• Experience with electrical systems and familiarity of basic safety principles to include LOTO, Arc Flash and Electrical Safety.

• Knowledge of AC/DC electrical systems and tools

• Proven ability to work well within a multi-disciplinary team

• Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather

• Ability to understand directions, follow procedures, and complete tasks with minimal oversight

• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

• Remain current in all safety and technical trainings

• Knowledge of applicable safety and environmental regulations

• Knowledge of electrical testing and equipment used at solar facilities including but not limited to; IR equipment and IV curve tracing.

• Working knowledge of Solectria, SMA, Satcon, Advanced Energy/PVP central inverters

• Working knowledge of Also Energy, Power Factors, MOXA, and SEEDS DAS equipment

• Working knowledge of SEL protective devices

• Working knowledge of MV Transformers and Switchgear

Preferred Qualifications

• NABCEP PV Installer or Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist

• OSHA – 30 Hour Certificate Holder

• NFPA 70E Certificate Holder

• AAS degree in electrical technology or equivalent

• State Electrical license or training certificate

Originally posted on Himalayas