Residential Solar Applications Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Role Summary

The Residential Solar Applications Engineer serves as the technical authority and customer-facing voice of Sturdy Corporation/KBE, supporting solar installers, system integrators, inverter manufacturers, and battery OEM partners throughout the sales and deployment lifecycle. This role bridges deep solar systems expertise with exceptional communication skills, translating Sturdy Corporation/KBE product capabilities into clear value propositions and actionable guidance for a diverse technical audience. Some domestic and international travel is required.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Sales & Customer Engagement

▸ Serve as the primary technical resource for solar installers, battery/inverter OEM partners, and system integrators evaluating Sturdy Corporation/KBE products.

▸ Clearly articulate Sturdy Corporation/KBE features, benefits, and competitive advantages in both pre-sales and post-sales contexts.

▸ Lead product demonstrations, technical webinars, and on-site presentations for prospective and existing customers.

▸ Develop and deliver application-specific proposals, technical one-pagers, and customized solution briefs.

Solar Systems Expertise

▸ Apply in-depth knowledge of grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid solar PV systems to recommend optimal KBE configurations.

▸ Guide customers on system sizing, component selection, protection coordination, and code compliance (NEC, UL, IEC).

▸ Troubleshoot field issues and provide timely technical support during commissioning and post-installation phases.

Schematic Design & Documentation

▸ Review customer-submitted system schematic diagrams for accuracy, safety, and compatibility with Sturdy Corporation/KBE equipment.

▸ Create reference schematic diagrams illustrating KBE integration within grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid architectures.

▸ Maintain a library of standard application diagrams for use by the sales team and channel partners.

OEM & Manufacturer Collaboration

▸ Collaborate with inverter manufacturers and battery OEMs to validate interoperability and develop joint application notes.

▸ Participate in technical working groups, standards committees, and co-engineering sessions with partner engineering teams.

▸ Provide structured feedback from the field to internal R&D and Product teams to inform roadmap priorities.

Training & Enablement

▸ Develop training materials, installation guides, and application notes for installer and distributor channels.

▸ Conduct installer training sessions (in-person and virtual) covering KBE product installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

▸ Support the creation and maintenance of technical content on the KBE partner portal.

Travel

▸ Attend industry events, trade shows (e.g., RE+ / Solar Power International), and partner site visits as required.

▸ Travel estimated at approximately 25%, with flexibility for increased travel during product launch periods.

Qualifications

Required

▸ Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, Renewable Energy, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent practical experience).

▸ 3+ years of hands-on experience with solar PV systems, including grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid configurations.

▸ Demonstrated ability to read, create, and review single-line and detailed system schematic diagrams.

▸ Strong understanding of inverter topologies (string, microinverter, central), battery storage integration, and energy management systems.

▸ Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to both engineering and non-engineering audiences.

▸ Familiarity with relevant codes and standards: NEC Article 690/705, UL 1741, IEEE 1547, IEC 62109.

Preferred

▸ Previous experience in an Application Engineer, Field Application Engineer, or Technical Sales Engineer role at an inverter or power electronics manufacturer.

▸ Experience working directly with inverter or battery OEM engineering teams in a co-development or interoperability validation capacity.

▸ NABCEP certification (PV Installation Professional or PV Technical Sales) or equivalent.

▸ Proficiency with schematic capture tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, Visio, or similar).

▸ Working knowledge of grid interconnection requirements and utility tariff structures (NEM, NEM 3.0, VPP programs).

▸ Experience with energy storage system commissioning and BMS/EMS configuration.

Skills & Competencies

▸ Technical Depth:

▸ Technical Depth: Deep understanding of DC/AC power conversion, protection coordination, and energy flow in solar + storage systems.

▸ Communication: Ability to translate complex engineering concepts into compelling, accessible explanations for installers and OEM business stakeholders.

▸ Problem Solving: Proactive troubleshooter who can diagnose system issues remotely and in the field.

▸ Collaboration: Team player who thrives in cross-functional environments and builds strong relationships with external partners.

▸ Self-Direction: Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, growth-stage company environment.