Solar Operations & Maintenance Technician (Level 1)

New Energy Equity; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 41,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus up to 4%

Tools provided

PPE & FR clothing

Medical/Dental/Vision

401(k) match

Paid time off

Parental leave

Life & AD&D insurance

Certifications & training

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Energy Support Services, a New Energy Equity company, seeks a Solar O&M Technician Level 1 to join our team. You will perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic troubleshooting on solar energy systems under guidance from senior technicians.

We offer a structured development path to Technician II, company-paid certifications, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) with company match. Training and PPE are provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 0–1 year solar/related experience; construction, general labor, or basic electrical work preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills.
• Able to operate in low-voltage, non-hazardous environments under supervision.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to safety regulations, company policies, and procedures.
• Conduct routine inspections of solar energy systems and perform preventative maintenance.
• Assist senior technicians with basic troubleshooting and minor repairs under direct supervision.
• Complete work order documentation and maintain accurate records of inspections and maintenance.
• Participate in company-provided training programs and actively seek knowledge to improve technical skills.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Hand tools

Time management

Communication

Team collaboration

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Hand tools

Impact drills

Electric power tools

Hammer drills

Job description

Energy Support Services, a New Energy Equity company, keeps solar and energy storage systems safe, reliable, and producing clean power. As our Solar O&M Technician Level 1, you’ll kickstart your career in the renewable energy sector, performing routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting on solar energy systems. Working closely under the guidance of senior technicians, you will learn the ropes, ensure the safe operation of our solar power plants, and follow a clear, defined development pathway with advancement to Technician Level 2.

Pay:$41,000 - $47,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Bonus:Up to an 4% performance bonus paid out annually.
• Equipment:Tools and equipment provided.
• Apparel:Company-provided PPE and Fire Resistant clothing kit provided (including bibs, jackets, pants, and shirts).
• Benefits:Medical, dental, and vision coverage, the company pays 80% of health insurance premiums, plus a 401(k) with up to a 7.5% company match.
• Time Off:Paid time off accrued each pay period,120 hours per year (years 0–2), 160 hours (years 3–9), and 200 hours (10+ years), plus 11 paid holidays.
• Family:8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Insurance:Company-provided Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance at one times your annual salary.
• Growth:Company-paid certifications and training, including OSHA, NFPA 70e/70b, FAA Part 107, and the O&M Tech course series.
• Pathways:A transparent Field Tech Development Pathway with defined advancement to Technician II, progression based on demonstrated capability, not tenure.
• Education:Tuition reimbursement up to $10,000 annually for approved educational programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Safety

• Adhere to all safety regulations, company policies, and procedures.
• Identify and report potential field hazards immediately.
• Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly at all times.
• Actively participate in safety training, Pre-Job Briefs, and Job Safety Analysis.

Inspections & Preventative Maintenance

• Conduct routine inspections of solar energy systems to ensure operational efficiency.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks, such as inspecting solar modules, checking wiring integrity, and tightening connections.
• Identify and report any equipment deficiencies, anomalies, or structural issues to senior team members.

Troubleshooting

• Assist senior technicians with basic troubleshooting of solar energy systems.
• Utilize fundamental diagnostic tools and equipment to help identify and isolate basic system issues.
• Perform minor repairs under direct supervision.

Documentation

• Complete all required work order documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain clean, accurate records of daily inspections, maintenance tasks, and repairs.

Learning & Knowledge

• Actively participate in company-provided training programs to enhance technical skills and solar knowledge.
• Demonstrate a strong willingness to learn, ask questions, and continuously improve.
• Assist team members and perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education:High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience:0–1 year of experience in the solar industry or a related field. Prior experience with construction, general labor, or basic electrical work is highly preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills.
  • Comfortable operating in low-voltage and non-hazardous situations with supervision.
  • Proficient and comfortable using hand tools, impact drills, electric power tools, and hammer drills.
• Soft Skills & Collaboration:
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent time management skills and a strong desire to work as part of a collaborative team.
• Requirements:Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Be able to drive a vehicle confidently and with a high degree of safety.
• Be able to stand for long periods of time and walk distances up to three miles a day.
• Be able to navigate ladders, stairs, scaffolding, and ramps while maintaining 3 points of contact.
• Have the visual acuity for depth perception, no field of vision issues, and the ability to distinguish between colors.
• Be comfortable working in a variety of climate conditions which may include, but are not limited to, extreme heat (temperatures above 100°F) or extreme cold (temperatures below 32°F) for periods of more than one hour.
• Be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

The expected annual wage for this opportunity: $20-23/ Per Hour encompassing base pay. This range is a good faith estimate based on the position's requirements. Specific compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary depending on factors such as relevant knowledge, skills, training, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, this position may qualify for a comprehensive benefits package, including Retirement Benefits, Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and more.

ABOUT US:

At New Energy Equity, a proud subsidiary of ALLETE, we’re leading the charge in transforming the energy landscape with innovative solar solutions. As a top player in the renewable energy sector, we’ve successfully developed over 600MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments. Our projects deliver sustainable electricity to a wide range of clients, including commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers. But there’s more to us than just impressive numbers. We pride ourselves on a dynamic and engaging work environment where teamwork, continuous learning, and environmental stewardship are at the core of what we do. Our inclusive and collaborative culture encourages creativity and innovation, making our office a place where every idea is valued, and growth is a priority. At New Energy Equity, you’ll join a passionate team that not only drives the clean energy future but also enjoys celebrating our successes together. With over 250 projects across the U.S., our supportive atmosphere ensures a balanced work-life dynamic and a fun, fulfilling career path. Join us and be part of a forward-thinking company where your contributions are celebrated, and your professional development is supported as we work towards a brighter, sustainable future.

The statements above outline the essential functions, nature, and level of work expected as of the document’s preparation date. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties and responsibilities. New Energy Equity reserves the right to modify this job description at any time, without notice.

New Energy Equity is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, contact our HR department at [e-mail]