Solar PV Design Engineer

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 33,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Solar PV Design Engineer for our client in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on technical design and optimization of PV systems for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects, with site assessments and BOMs.

You will use CAD and PV design software (PVSyst, HelioScope) to create single-line diagrams, ensure compliance with SANS 10142 and local codes, and collaborate with project teams to drive efficient, safe installations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in design of solar PV systems.
• Proficiency with PV design software (PVSyst, HelioScope).
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles including AC/DC circuits and power systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer PV solar energy systems, including site assessments, sizing, and component selection.
• Develop detailed system designs with single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, and site layouts using CAD and PV design software.
• Perform energy production modeling and system performance analysis to optimize energy yield.
• Ensure designs comply with national electrical codes (SANS 10142) and local regulations.
• Specify inverters, solar panels, mounting hardware, batteries, and other components.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, and installation teams to ensure project execution.
• Conduct site visits for design verification and to assist during installation.
• Prepare technical documentation including design reports, BOMs, and installation guidelines.
• Stay updated on solar PV technology and design methodologies.

Skills

PV system design

Electrical engineering principles

Teamwork

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

HelioScope

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing company in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a talented and detail-oriented Solar PV Design Engineer to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape . This role involves the technical design and optimization of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects. You will be responsible for creating accurate system layouts, single-line diagrams, and component selections, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards while maximizing energy production and system efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of PV system design principles, electrical engineering, and experience with industry-standard design software. This is an on-site role at our facilities in Upington .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems, including site assessments, system sizing, and component selection.
• Develop detailed system designs, including single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, and site layouts using CAD and PV design software.
• Perform energy production modeling and system performance analysis to optimize energy yield.
• Ensure designs comply with national electrical codes (e.g., SANS 10142), local regulations, and industry best practices.
• Specify inverters, solar panels, mounting hardware, batteries (if applicable), and other balance-of-system components.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, and installation teams to ensure smooth project execution.
• Conduct site visits for design verification and to assist with technical challenges during installation.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, BOMs (Bills of Materials), and installation guidelines.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in solar PV technology, products, and design methodologies.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to system design and performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the design of solar PV systems.
• Proficiency with PV design software such as PVSyst, HelioScope, or similar tools.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, including AC/DC circuits, power systems, and wiring.
• Knowledge of relevant codes, standards, and regulations for solar PV installations.
• Experience with AutoCAD or similar CAD software for creating electrical and site plans.
• Familiarity with battery storage systems is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality designs.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience working in the Northern Cape region or similar climates is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development and training in the rapidly evolving renewable energy field. We provide a dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Working in Upington offers unique opportunities due to its excellent solar resources. Join our dedicated team and contribute to a cleaner energy future.