Commissioning Manager - Utility Scale Solar PV

Hydrogen Group; Juno Beach (FL); Hybrid; USD 89,544 - 97,809; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility-scale solar firm is seeking a Commissioning Manager to oversee the commissioning of solar PV projects, acting as the Owner's representative. The role requires substantial travel and includes responsibilities such as managing EPC contractors, ensuring installation quality, and leading performance testing. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and substantial experience in utility-scale projects. This position offers a competitive hourly pay and a 12-month contract with remote work options.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in utility-scale solar PV commissioning, typically 50MW+ projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in inverter systems and MV collection.
• Experience working with EPC contractors and OEMs on large projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning oversight for utility-scale solar PV projects.
• Act as Owner's representative managing EPC contractors.
• Ensure compliance with contractual requirements and oversee execution.
• Provide regular progress updates to senior management.

Skills

Understanding of utility-scale solar PV systems and commissioning processes

Expertise in PV system components

Knowledge of substation systems and grid interconnection

Experience with plant controls and SCADA systems

Strong quality control inspection capabilities

Ability to interpret electrical codes and specifications

Strong organizational and analytical skills

Effective communication with stakeholders

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Job description

Overview

Title: Commissioning Manager - Utility Scale Solar PV (Owners Representative)

Location: Remote based with up to 75% travel

Pay: $65.00 - $71.00/hour

Duration: 12-Month Contract

In this role, you will serve as the Owner's representative for utility-scale solar PV projects, overseeing EPC contractors and OEMs throughout construction, commissioning, testing, and project closeout. You will ensure that all systems are installed, tested, and commissioned in accordance with contractual, technical, and regulatory requirements.

You will lead commissioning activities including system validation, energization, performance testing, and turnover, while providing detailed reporting and technical leadership across multiple project stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning oversight for utility-scale solar PV projects from construction turnover through commercial operation
• Act as the Owner's representative managing EPC contractors, OEMs, and third-party vendors
• Oversee installation quality, system completion, testing, and commissioning execution
• Manage and coordinate system energization, startup, and performance testing activities
• Ensure compliance with contractual requirements including interconnection and power purchase agreements
• Lead project closeout activities, including documentation review and final reporting
• Provide regular progress updates (daily, weekly, monthly) to senior management
• Interface with internal teams, external stakeholders, and project committees

Essential Duties and Functions

• Participate in and support project safety programs and audits
• Perform detailed quality control inspections against engineering drawings, specifications, and installation manuals
• Conduct system walkdowns to verify mechanical completion prior to energization
• Develop and manage energization and commissioning plans
• Oversee EPC and OEM commissioning procedures, execution, and compliance
• Support troubleshooting and resolution of commissioning issues as a subject matter expert
• Manage substation testing, energization, and third-party coordination
• Oversee metering and performance validation testing
• Lead ISO/GIA/PPA commissioning and compliance processes
• Review interconnection and power purchase agreements to define testing requirements
• Develop comprehensive project-specific testing plans
• Coordinate and lead alignment meetings for commissioning and performance testing
• Manage test execution, data analysis, and final reporting

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of utility-scale solar PV systems and commissioning processes
• Expertise in PV system components including modules, inverters, DC/MV collection systems, and balance-of-plant equipment
• Knowledge of substation systems, protection & controls, and grid interconnection
• Experience with plant controls and SCADA systems, including troubleshooting and communications
• Familiarity with PLCs, protection relays, revenue metering, and industrial electronic equipment
• Strong quality control inspection and punch-list management capabilities
• Solid understanding of DC (up to 2,000Vdc) and AC systems (up to 34.5kV)
• Ability to interpret electrical codes, engineering drawings, and specifications
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication with stakeholders, contractors, and executive leadership
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Strong planning and scheduling awareness

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent technical experience preferred
• Proven experience in utility-scale solar PV commissioning (typically 50MW+ projects)
• Demonstrated expertise in inverter systems, MV collection, substations, and plant controls
• Experience working with EPC contractors and OEMs in large infrastructure projects

Physical Requirements

• Ability to distinguish color-coded wiring and components
• Capability to stand for extended periods, including bending and kneeling
• Ability to walk across uneven terrain in varying weather conditions
• Ability to lift at least 20 pounds
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle between work locations
• Extensive travel required (up to 75%) to project sites across the U.S.
• On-site presence required during commissioning phases
• Remote work supporting SCADA monitoring and portfolio commissioning activities when not on-site