Solar Technology Engineer

**** This Role can be based in the UK or Iberia****

As a member of the Asset Excellence department, the Solar Technology Engineer (STE) will be the technical expert for solar PV technology in the operations organisation.

Acting as a key technical stakeholder between the Operations and Growth departments, the STE will be responsible for the specification of solar PV plant and ancillary systems, developing Employer Requirements for future construction contracts that are aligned with Operational strategy and requirements.  The STE will work closely with Growth execution teams to ensure design meets specification, monitor the progress of construction, commissioning and testing, and support Operational takeover of newly constructed assets.

The STE will build the solar PV technical expertise in operations in parallel with the growth of the operational solar PV portfolio, developing strategies to optimise the performance and lifetime of assets, and providing technical support to Asset Management and Asset Maintenance.

The initial focus for the newly appointed STE is to support the design and construction of 240MWp of solar PV to be co-located on 5 existing wind farms in Northern Spain.  Expected to last 24 months, the delivery of the programme is under the accountability of Asset Excellence and the STE will have the opportunity to be actively involved in all key technical workstreams.  

Key Responsibilities

Growth Delivery Support

Employer Requirement Development

• Collaborate with the wider Operations organisation to define precise technical specifications for solar PV plant, ensuring alignment with long-term operational strategy
• Integrate emerging solar technologies and industry best practices into construction contract requirements to maximise future opportunities for operational efficiency
• Conduct due diligence to validate project viability and technology choices

Design Review and Validation

• Evaluate solar PV project designs from Growth execution teams to ensure they meet established specifications and performance expectations
• Ensure design flexibility to incorporate future technological advancements and operational enhancements
• Assess and recommend solar PV equipment suppliers and technology partners based on technical performance, reliability, and cost

Construction Monitoring and Operational Oversight

• Stay abreast of construction and commissioning progress, in particular gaining an in-depth understanding of any technical problems encountered and the solutions implemented

• Review testing and commission reports

• Support the Growth to Operations takeover process, ensure that the required technical documentation is delivered

2. Operational Asset Optimisation

Performance Optimisation

• Develop and maintain strong industry networks to stay current on the latest technology developments in solar PV
• Analyse operational performance to identify trends and opportunities for increased energy yield and efficiency
• Work with data analytics team to develop and implement machine learning algorithms or advanced analytics for predictive maintenance and optimisation

Lifetime Management and Revamping

• Develop and implement lifecycle management strategies for solar PV equipment to extend asset life and improve return on investment

• Plan and oversee revamping activities to replace or upgrade underperforming or outdated components

Operational Asset Technical Support

Provision of Technical Expertise

• Provide troubleshooting support and technical resolution for complex issues that arise during the operational phase
• Support the completion of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) investigations into large-scale defects and failures

Commercial and Procurement Support

• Support Procurement in the development of technical scope for O&M contracts

• Assist Asset Maintenance in the development of critical spares holding

Competencies and behaviours

Essential

• Organised and methodical mindset

• Results focused

• Drive and persistence

• Confident and articulate communicator

• Excellent level of written communication

• Teamwork

• Developing relationships

• Cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity

Relevant experience: 

Essential

• Strong understanding of photovoltaic technology, system components and solar energy fundamental

• Familiarity with relevant codes and standards pertaining to solar PV system design and installation

• Language Skills (Fluent in English)

• Work experience in a similar role within a renewable energy developer / operator

Education and qualifications:

Desirable

• Engineering Degree

Software Programmes

Desirable

• Proficiency in design software such as PVsyst, Helioscope, SAM, AutoCAD or equivalent