Solar PV Engineer/Commissioning Agent

Optony is a global research and consulting firm focused on enabling government and commercial organizations to bridge the gap between solar energy goals and real-world results. Leveraging our independence, domain expertise and unique market position, our clients are empowered to make informed decisions that reduce risk, optimize operations, and deliver the greatest long-term return on their solar investments.

Position Overview:

The PV Systems Engineer performs 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 Solar PV systems during and post PV construction as part of project commissioning activities. 

This position is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and 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 is considered a technical SME (Subject Matter Expert) on PV, panels, inverters, grid connection, solar construction, electrical systems and monitoring software.  As an important representative for clients, the Engineer must consistently provide positive customer 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. The position reports to the Director of Operations and will begin immediately following successful interviews.

Responsibilities:

System Analysis & Inspection:

Client sites and systems are visited periodically before installation, during construction and while in operation.  The PV Systems 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
• Detailed testing and troubleshooting of panels, low performing strings and entire arrays
• DC and AC wiring inspection and system evaluation compared to industry best practices
• Inverter and electrical equipment inspection
• Calculation of actual and potential PV system output
• Other system testing and characterization as required
• Maintain safe operational processes for Optony and client staff

All operations and maintenance activity must be recorded in a project tracking database in a timely manner. Generation of site visit reports are also required for internal and client communication.

Office & Client Work:

The PV Systems 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.
• Communication with customer site contacts, Operations Manager and other team members.
• Communication with equipment or service vendors as needed.

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 apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• 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 construction practices required
• 2+ years working with solar electric systems or electrical systems
• Journeyman Electrician's Certification and/or C-46 license and/or NABCEP certification desirable
• Technical/science/engineering degree or experience with energy systems preferred
• Experience with metering and test equipment
• 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.

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.

To Apply:

Please send letter of interest with resume.