Solar Commissioning Lead/Engineer (SCADA / Controls)

Job Description

Job Description

Company Overview:

GPT Renewables is a leading player in the renewable energy sector, dedicated to driving the transition to a sustainable and clean energy future. Specializing in utility-scale solar projects, we are committed to creating innovative solutions that make a lasting impact on the global energy landscape.

Position Overview:

GPT Renewables is seeking a highly experienced Solar Commissioning Engineer (SCADA / Controls) to support multiple community and utility-scale solar projects across Illinois. Projects range from 2–7.5 MW and utilize ATI trackers, with crews rotating sites approximately every 3 months.

This is a SCADA/controls-focused role, not electrical installation. This role is critical in leading projects from mechanical completion through substantial completion, with full ownership of system energization, advanced commissioning, controls integration, and utility coordination. The ideal candidate brings deep, hands-on experience leading full system startup, SCADA/DAS commissioning, advanced electrical testing, and final system turnover.

Schedule: 6x10s

Pay Rate: (Rate Depends on Experience) + Fringe Benefits

Per Diem: $140 per 7 days

Start: ASAP

Responsibilities:

Commissioning Leadership & System Energization

• Lead full system energization from de-energized state through commissioning with strict LOTO procedures
• Take primary ownership of system startup, ensuring safe and efficient energization of all components
• Oversee all commissioning phases from Mechanical Completion through Substantial Completion

Inverter Programming & Device Configuration

• Perform inverter programming, parameter setup, and IP configuration (SMA or equivalent)
• Execute device programming for combiner boxes, trackers, and associated equipment
• Troubleshoot inverter alarms, faults, and communications issues to bring systems fully online

DAS/SCADA Installation & Commissioning

• Lead installation, configuration, and commissioning of DAS/SCADA systems
• Integrate inverters, meters, weather stations, and monitoring equipment into SCADA platforms
• Verify communications, data accuracy, and system performance across all monitored devices

Advanced Electrical Testing & Validation

• Perform and oversee:
• • IV Curve Trace Testing
  • Fall of Potential Testing (grounding systems)
  • Insulation resistance, continuity, and voltage testing
• Validate system performance and ensure compliance with project specifications and industry standards

Utility Coordination & Witness Testing

• Lead and coordinate all utility witness testing activities
• Interface directly with utility representatives to ensure successful system acceptance
• Prepare systems for interconnection and resolve deficiencies identified during testing

Troubleshooting & System Optimization

• Diagnose and resolve complex electrical, communications, and performance issues on energized systems
• Identify root causes of system faults, including phase loss, voltage irregularities, and SCADA communication failures
• Support punch list completion and ensure all systems are fully operational prior to turnover

Installation Quality & Compliance

• Ensure high-quality electrical installations including terminations, torque specs, grounding, and labeling
• Verify all work meets NEC requirements, project specifications, and safety standards
• Identify and correct installation deficiencies impacting commissioning and performance

Leadership & Field Oversight

• Supervise and guide field crews during commissioning phases
• Assign tasks, monitor productivity, and enforce safe work practices
• Mentor electricians and technicians on commissioning procedures and best practices

General Responsibilities

• Enforce all safety protocols, including lockout/tag-out (LOTO) procedures
• Utilize hand and power tools for installation, testing, and troubleshooting
• Coordinate with project teams and other trades on-site
• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of commissioning, SCADA, controls, or power systems experience (solar required)
• Proven experience leading commissioning from Mechanical Completion to Substantial Completion
• Hands-on experience with:
• • ATI Racking sytem
  • Inverter programming (SMA preferred)
  • DAS/SCADA systems installation and commissioning
  • IV Curve Trace Testing
  • Fall of Potential Testing
  • Utility witness testing and coordination
• Strong expertise in:
• • IP addressing, subnetting, and network configuration
  • Communication protocols: Modbus TCP/IP, RS485, Ethernet, fiber
  • SCADA platforms (AlsoEnergy, PowerTrack, SMA Data Manager, or similar)
• Strong expertise in:
• • Electrical testing and validation procedures
  • Troubleshooting energized PV systems and communications networks
  • Reading and interpreting electrical drawings, schematics, and commissioning plans
• Solid understanding of National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Experience on ground-mount, community, or utility-scale solar projects
• Ability to travel between project sites across Illinois on a rotational basis
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills in field environments
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Ability to pass a drug screen and background check

GPT Renewables is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws.