Solar Technician

Job Title

Solar Powered Generation Plant Operator

Job Description

Pattern Energy is a leading renewable energy company that develops, constructs, owns, and operates high-quality wind and solar generation, transmission, and energy storage facilities. Our mission is to transition the world to renewable energy through the sustainable development and responsible operation of facilities with respect for the environment, communities, and cultures where we have a presence.

Our approach begins and ends with establishing trust, accountability, and transparency. Our company values of creative spirit, pride of ownership, follow-through, and a team-first attitude drive us to pursue our mission every day. Our culture supports our values by fostering innovative and critical thinking and a deep belief in living up to our promises.

Headquartered in the United States, Pattern has a global portfolio of more than 30 power facilities and transmission assets, serving various customers that provide low-cost clean energy to millions of consumers.

Responsibilities

This position is responsible for the onsite operations, maintenance, repairs and replacement of equipment on a solar powered generation plant as directed by the Facility Manager.

Operate and maintain the utility scale PV power plant and associated equipment, including substation, transmission lines, collection system, tower switchgear, and other various Balance of Plant activities.

• Read schematics to troubleshoot complicated mechanical, and electrical problems within the PV plant and balance of plant.
• Inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing, and modifying AC and DC solar PV systems to correct malfunctions following all manufacturers' requirements.
• Work with related equipment such as inverters, PV module arrays, transformers, switchgear, and metering systems.
• Comply with all project environmental health and safety programs.
• Perform preventive maintenance in accordance with OEM and/or Pattern Energy maintenance practices.
• Maintain balance-of-plant (BOP) systems, including civil work such as roads, drainage, fencing, vegetation control, and other site infrastructures.
• Coordinate and oversee onsite contractors when applicable, ensuring work is performed safely and in accordance with site requirements.
• Adhere to effective internal controls.
• Operate and Maintain service vehicle.
• Maintain tools in good working order and well organized.
• Perform data collection and prepare reports to meet PV plant reporting requirements.

Qualifications

Education:

• One year college or technical school certificate; or 12 months of related experience or solar industry training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Qualifications:

• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Bending, kneeling, twisting, the ability to climb ladders, and wear PPE for extended periods of time.
• Ability to frequently lift items weighing 1 to 60 pounds and occasionally lift items from 61 to 100 pounds.
• Advanced computer skills utilizing word processing, spreadsheets, email, facility control, management and reporting systems, including the use of computerized diagnostic and troubleshooting tools.
• Ability to interpret and follow a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Willing to work overtime on holidays, weekends, and on short notice. Participate in an on-call schedule.
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work in high and low temperatures, sun exposure, and navigate on uneven ground on foot.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of discrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Knowledge of heavy equipment required for facility maintenance.
• Experience with maintenance and electronic testing equipment. (i.e. voltage testers, amp clamps, oscilloscopes, meg-ohmmeters, infrared testers, and various hand and power tools.)
• Willingness and desire to increase professional knowledge of PV equipment, including safety regulations. May require travel to other wind/solar sites within U.S. or Canada.

Preference may be given to candidates with the following:

• Experience in power plant operations and maintenance.
• Experience in solar plant operations and solar experience; including specific experience in PV power converters.
• Experience in medium/ high voltage switching.

The expected starting hourly rate for this role is $28.00 - $34.00 USD. This range is an estimate and hourly rate may be above or below the ranges based on several factors including but not limited to location, work experience, certifications, and education. In addition to base pay, Pattern's compensation program includes a bonus structure for full-time employees of all levels. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, voluntary benefits, family care benefits, employee assistance program, paid time off and bonding leave, paid holidays, 401(k)/RRSP retirement savings plan with employer contribution, and employee referral bonuses.

Pattern Energy Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.