Commissioning Engineer – Commercial Solar Farms

Ardour Associates Ltd; Willenhall; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy consultancy in the UK is seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer to support the end-to-end commissioning of commercial-scale solar PV farms. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical engineering and hands-on commissioning experience with MW-scale solar installations. Responsibilities include performing full commissioning, preparing detailed plans, and working closely with technical teams. This role offers a day rate of £600 - £800 and requires travel to project sites.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years commissioning experience on utility-scale solar PV projects.
• Strong working knowledge of grid-connected PV systems.
• Experience with G99 commissioning requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform full commissioning of solar PV systems.
• Prepare and maintain detailed commissioning plans.
• Work closely with EPC teams and site managers to ensure proper execution.

Skills

Commissioning on solar PV projects

Problem-solving ability

Excellent communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical Engineering

Tools

SCADA platforms

HV/LV systems

Job description

Job Specification :

Day Rate : circa £600 - £800 / day

Location : UK-wide (with travel to project sites)

Contract Type : Contract / Freelance

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer to support the end‑to‑end commissioning of commercial‑scale solar PV farms. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in electrical engineering, hands‑on commissioning experience with MW‑scale solar installations, and the ability to work independently to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities

Commissioning & Testing

• Perform full commissioning of solar PV systems, including DC strings, inverters, AC systems, protection equipment, transformers, and grid‑connected components.
• Conduct functional tests, insulation resistance tests, IV curve testing, and system performance verification.
• Ensure all equipment is installed and operates per design specifications, manufacturer standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues during the commissioning process.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare and maintain detailed commissioning plans, test records, and handover documentation.
• Produce high‑quality commissioning reports for clients, DNOs, and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure all commissioning activities are recorded according to H&S, QA / QC, and project compliance frameworks.

Technical & Stakeholder Coordination

• Work closely with EPC teams, site managers, grid operators (DNOs / IDNOs), and asset management teams.
• Support energisation procedures and liaise with the DNO for G99 / G100 compliance testing.
• Provide technical guidance during the late‑construction phase to ensure the project is ready for commissioning.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all work is carried out safely in accordance with CDM, site rules, and industry H&S best practices.
• Lead by example in maintaining a strong safety culture across site teams.

Required Experience & Qualifications

Experience

• 3–5+ years commissioning experience on commercial or utility‑scale solar PV projects (5MW+ preferred).
• Strong working knowledge of grid‑connected PV systems, inverters (SMA, Huawei, Sungrow, or similar), transformers, HV / LV systems, and SCADA platforms.
• Demonstrable experience completing successful energisations and handovers on major solar projects.

Technical Skills

• Ability to perform advanced diagnostic testing and system performance verification.
• Familiarity with G99 commissioning requirements and grid compliance processes.
• Understanding of fibre, Comms, SCADA integration is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Degree or HNC / HND in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
• 18th Edition (desirable).
• CSCS / ECS, HV authorisations, or DNO‑approved competencies advantageous.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Key Attributes

• Strong problem‑solving ability and technical initiative.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills.
• Ability to lead commissioning activities with minimal supervision.
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to safety and compliance