Engineer II Solar Performance Engineering

The Engineer II – Solar Performance Engineering at RES in Denver, CO is responsible for energy modeling, performance evaluation, and optimization of PV plants during various project phases. This role involves collaboration with third-party engineering firms, performance testing, troubleshooting, and technical reporting. Key tasks include developing PVsyst models, evaluating system performance, and supporting commissioning efforts. The position requires regular site visits and attendance at the office.
We are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels heard and respected, and extending our culture of care so that every individual can reach their full potential. We want you to have a sense of belonging and feel valued for your contributions and the perspectives you bring.

Summary:
The Engineer II – Solar Performance Engineering is responsible for energy modeling and performance evaluation of PV plants at the proposal phase, engineering iterations and construction phase for individual projects, as needed, as well as for solar PV system size optimization based on energy requirements from the client. This role works closely with 3rd party engineering firms during the design phase of each PV power plant to ensure MET equipment is properly scoped and displayed in the construction drawings. During plant performance testing, the Engineer II – Solar Performance Engineering confirms the capacity output of the PV plant(s) meet contract requirements, as well as works closely with the construction and commissioning teams for necessary PV plant diagnostics related to performance and functionality of the power plant during construction, commissioning, and warranty phases of each project. This role also collaborates with the Electrical Engineering team to troubleshoot project performance as requested or directed by the Performance Engineering team.

Requirements:
• Develops PVsyst energy models for project proposals as well as awarded & constructed projects for monofacial, bifacial, thin-film or any other emerging solar PV module technologies.
• Supports the solar PV plant Performance Testing contract exhibit(s) development and technical negotiations with the Client.
• Evaluates utility-scale PV systems modeled/measured performance using PVsyst to create linear regressions in accordance with ASTM E2848-13.
• Calculates system availability from data collected by SCADA or on-site testing as needed.
• Contributes to ongoing research efforts to improve modeling of PV systems throughout their lifetime.
• Provides Commissioning and Performance Testing support to Operations and Site Construction team.
• Applies expertise about potential PV system component failure, potential modeling issues, and site design to troubleshoot current PV systems operating below expected levels of Guaranteed Capacity & energy production.
• Prepares test reports and gives technical presentations on the testing results to Client, as required.
• Provides review of field-testing data such as PV array infrared imaging and open-circuit voltage testing to identify performance issues or component failure. Identify any fault patterns based on the electrical characteristics (I-V Curve, open-circuit voltage, hotspots, potential short circuit conditions) and validate defect evidence in potential warranty claims.)
• Participates in calls with customers answering questions on PV system performance and recommending possible next steps for performance investigation.
• Designs data visuals and written reports for audiences ranging from technical experts to management personnel.
• Assists Performance Engineer team with the scheduling of tasks both in Pre-construction &
• Construction commissioning and testing stages of projects.
• Operates Company aligned vehicle for site visits and business trips.
• Attends work regularly and punctually, as scheduled or expected.
• Complies with Employee Handbook, Code of Conduct, and Company Policies & Procedures.
Additional Responsibilities:
• Presents, supports, and leads-by-example with a safety and quality-oriented attitude.
• Performs ad hoc job-related duties/functions and projects to support the Solar & Solar Performance Engineering team, as well as other Engineering teams.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or related field required.
• 2 or more years of solar industry or related engineering industry experience required.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally 31-50% required.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License.
• Demonstrates competence in solar design and understands major design trade-offs; working knowledge of the subject matter handles basic to moderately complex technical issues and refers complex issues or risk assessments to higher-level engineers.
• Possesses a strong electrical trouble shooting background in order to successfully execute performance testing.
• Possesses strong project management background.
• Demonstrates ability to adhere to internal processes while being open to challenges that may arise during the execution of field testing.
• Demonstrates accountability and focus on quality.
• Willingness to meet varied travel requirements, with peak outage seasons seeing higher percentages and peak demand seasons seeing less travel.
• Proven experience with data analyses and presenting to stakeholders to drive data driven decisions.
• Ability to organize and prioritize assigned work; demonstrates a self-start mindset
• Interpersonal and Communications, including:
• Strong interpersonal skills, including listening, summarizing skills, and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate internally with engineering, development, construction, and estimating departments.
• Intermediate Technical writing skills; clear and concise written communications.
• Ability to effectively communicate issues to peers.
• Basic level of knowledge in:
• PV Design
• String Sizing
• Inverter Loading Ratios
• Energy Modeling
• Layouts
• PV systems relevant to national design codes and standards include NEC, NFPA, ASTM, IEC, IBC, ASCE, etc.
• Basic level experience with Design Software:
• Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
• PV simulation software PVsyst and SAM, and other industry relevant modeling software
• Global Mapper or GIS software
• MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Functional competencies include excellence, attention to detail, collaboration, communication, teamwork.
Anticipated base salary range: $78,000 - $99,000

The final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. This position is bonus eligible.

RES offers benefits that are effective first day of employment. These benefits include the following:
• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 4x pay Basic Life and Voluntary Life
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Accident, Hospital, and Critical Illness
• 401 (k) plan with 6% company match
• 4 weeks Paid Time Off (PTO) and 10 Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement and Green Car Reimbursement
• Volunteer and Charity Matching
• Paid Parental Leave and Paid Sabbatical Leave
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Employee Discounts and Wellness programs
• Wellness Reimbursement
Physical requirements and environment:

The work environment and physical demands characteristics are representative of those the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Rarely: Climbing and pulling/pushing/lifting between 5-15lbs. are required.
Occasionally: Carrying 5-15lbs., crouching, gripping, handling, kneeling, pinching, and walking are required.
Frequently: Standing is required.
Constantly: Reading, grasping, hearing, reaching, vision, repetitive motion, and sitting is required.
Occasionally exposed to extreme cold, heat, and humidity, wet climates, noise, and hazards in the working environment.

We maintain a drug-free workplace. Candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment background investigation and drug test as a condition of employment.

RES is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

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