PV Systems Engineer

PV Systems Engineer - Multiple openings in Northern and Southern California.

Position Description

The PV Systems Engineer performs pre-sale and post-sale scheduled and unscheduled PV systems analysis and fieldwork required to evaluate planned and in-service solar systems for our clients. Fieldwork includes conducting initial site assessments and inspecting all components of PV systems before, during and post PV construction. Fieldwork typically accounts for 70% of the Engineer’s time. Office and client meetings typically accounts for the remaining 30% of their time. The position reports to the Director of Operations. The PV System Engineer is considered the technical SME (Subject Matter Expert) on PV feasibility, panels, inverters, grid connection and monitoring software. Engineer should keep in mind that this is a major public interface for Optony and he/she should make every effort to provide positive customer consulting and account interactions.

Travel is required for this position, and Engineers should maximize the use of their time, visiting multiple sites in a region at one time to mitigate travel expenses. Overnight travel may be required, averaging up to 25% of the time.

RESPONSIBILITIES

System Analysis & Inspection
Client sites and systems are visited periodically before installation, during construction and while in operation. The Engineer may perform the following during the on-site visit:
• Physical measurement of client rooftop and surrounding grounds
• Inspection and assessment of client facilities and site insolation characteristics
• Estimation of available space for PV systems
• Design of different scenarios for PV installations, with flexibility and creativity
• Testing and troubleshooting of entire array and low performing strings
• Array and DC wiring inspection
• Inverter and electrical equipment inspection
• Open circuit voltage and operating DC current
• Calculation of actual and potential PV system output
• Other system testing and characterization as required
• Balance of system physical inspection

All operation and maintenance activity must be recorded in the project tracking database in a timely manner with all appropriate activity and communication recorded in the notes fields. Generation of site visit reports are also required for internal and client communication.

Office & Client Work
The Engineer, under guidance of the Director of Operations, will perform tasks that further the work of the Operations and Sales Departments. These include:
• Providing support for sales executives during client and opportunity meetings when Engineer expertise is needed, including answering technical questions, describing work plan and reviewing case studies.
• Generating reports summarizing field activity, observations and recommendations.
• Improve internal documentation including Operations Materials and Guidebook, Assessment and Inspection forms, and standardizing Operations field procedures.
• Communication with customer site contact, Operations Manager and equipment or service vendors when repairs or replacement are required.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Practical knowledge of electrical systems, solar electric systems and their components
• Knowledge of building and structural construction techniques
• Ability to efficiently troubleshoot system failures
• Strong analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal, written, communication and presentation skills
• Strong prioritization skills
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, lengths, and electrical values.
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret a wide variety of written resources including procedures, manuals, diagrams, architectural or electrical drawing, and schedule forms.
• Ability to effectively present information, request information from, and respond to technical questions from clients, equipment vendors, managers, peers, and subcontractors.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Practical experience with electrical wiring and basic construction practices required
• 2+ years working with solar electric systems or electrical systems and/or 5+ years commercial construction or roofing experience required
• Journeyman Electrician’s Certification and/or C-46 license desirable
• Technical/science/engineering degree or experience with energy systems preferred
• Experience with metering and test equipment
• Ability to organize, prioritize and complete multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to demonstrate a responsive, customer service approach to listening and responding to requests
• Ability to communicate status of work activities and issues with peers and management as they relate to projects and tasks

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to see, talk, or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, and use hands to inspect, feel and maneuver small parts in confined spaces, such as wires, screws, and various components within electrical equipment. Employee may be required to kneel, crawl, climb ladders and stairs, use scissor lifts and be on rooftops. Employee may be required to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
While performing the duties of this job the employee may be exposed to the risk of electric shock, heights, and moving mechanical parts. Additionally while working outdoors, the employee is exposed to heat, cold, inclement weather, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Please send your resume with the job title in the subject line directly to: careers@optony.com