Technician (Solar), Exeter

RES; Exeter; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy company in Exeter is seeking a Technician (Solar) for operations and maintenance of utility-scale solar PV plants. Candidates should be qualified electricians with MW-scale power plant experience. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for training and development. Strength in safety, quality, and teamwork is essential in this permanent position.

Benefits

Company vehicle

Private health insurance

Contributory pension

Role-specific training

Qualifications

• Fully qualified electrician with experience in MW-scale power plants.
• Experience in risk assessments and method statements.
• Knowledge of central inverters and High Voltage operations.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to and manage health and safety requirements.
• Perform planned inspections and maintenance.
• Manage subcontractors and maintain accurate maintenance records.

Skills

Commitment to safe working practices

Excellent communication skills in English

Attention to detail

Ability to work independently and in a team

Strong problem-solving skills

Education

Approved Electrician certification

Inspection and testing qualifications (C&G 2391 or 2394/5)

First aid certification

Health & Safety qualifications (IOSH Managing Safely, SMSTS)

Job description

Job Purpose

The Technician (Solar) is a field-based role performing operations and maintenance duties on utility-scale ground-mounted solar PV plants & BESS. The role's overall purpose is to ensure the plants achieve outstanding safety, quality, and performance levels within operational budgets, as part of a leading renewable energy team.

The ideal candidate will be a fully qualified electrician with experience operating and maintaining MW-scale power plants, possessing DC and HV electrical competencies. This is a permanent role requiring availability for weekend on-call duties on a rota, with an overtime system in place. A company vehicle, smartphone, and laptop/tablet will be provided. RES offers a comprehensive benefits package including contributory pension, private health insurance, and role-specific training. Strong candidates may work towards Authorised Person (AP) or Senior Authorised Person (SAP) status.

RES prides itself on its in-house training program, providing full training to develop technicians to advanced levels such as HV AP or SAP. Candidates embodying our values of Passion, Accountability, Collaboration, and Excellence will find significant growth opportunities.

Key Accountabilities

1. Adhere to and manage health and safety requirements, helping to maintain and improve safety standards across the plants.
2. Achieve and maintain Authorised Person status through training and experience.
3. Perform planned inspections and maintenance according to legal, technical, manufacturer, and contractual requirements.
4. Inspect, test, and maintain plant and equipment.
5. Undertake AC and DC system testing, troubleshooting, and fault-finding.
6. Carry out reactive maintenance, fault diagnosis, and resolution promptly.
7. Troubleshoot and repair sensors and communication equipment, including RS485, Ethernet, and fibre optic networks.
8. Configure computer-based devices and update firmware as needed.
9. Assist with ground maintenance, cleaning, or mechanical work occasionally.
10. Manage subcontractors, ensuring safe working practices and quality checks.
11. Maintain accurate maintenance records and compile reports.
12. Communicate closely with the O&M office and team functions.
13. Travel between sites and offices as required.
14. Work away from home for training or site coverage for up to 1 week.
15. Perform other duties as appropriate to the role.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of central inverters is desirable.
• Understanding of High Voltage operations.
• Strong technical knowledge of AC, DC, SCADA, instrumentation, and communication networks.
• Good understanding of solar PV technology is essential.
• Knowledge of HVAC, fire protection, and security systems is desirable.
• Understanding of battery storage technology; training can be provided if needed.

Skills

• Commitment to safe working practices.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
• Attention to detail and a positive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Responsive to changing priorities and issues.
• Enthusiasm for personal development.
• Strong problem-solving skills, able to interpret schematics and manuals.
• Computer skills for reporting and communication.
• Values of Passion, Accountability, Collaboration, and Excellence.

Experience

• Experience in risk assessments and method statements.
• Liaising with equipment vendors for fault diagnosis support.
• DC and LV installation, fault finding, testing, and commissioning.
• Remote work experience.
• MW-scale solar PV O&M experience.
• Desirable: MW-scale battery storage O&M, Ethernet and fibre optic communications, SCADA systems, HV switchgear.

Qualifications

• Full UK driving license.
• Approved Electrician certification.
• Inspection and testing qualifications (C&G 2391 or 2394/5) highly valued.
• First aid certification.
• Health & Safety qualifications (. IOSH Managing Safely, SMSTS).