Lead Solar PV Design Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible remote work

Competitive salary

Health & wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Solar PV Design Engineer for a remote-first role focused on supporting Cape Town-based initiatives. You will spearhead the design of utility-scale and commercial PV systems, ensuring high performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

The role requires 8+ years of PV design experience, proficiency with PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD and ETAP, and the ability to mentor junior engineers in a distributed team. SA grid knowledge is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in solar PV system design and engineering.
• Proven experience leading the design of large-scale (10MW+) solar PV projects.
• Strong knowledge of PV system design software and grid interconnection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical and mechanical design of utility-scale and commercial solar PV systems, from conceptualization to detailed engineering.
• Develop system specifications, single-line diagrams, equipment layouts, grounding designs, and stringing designs.
• Perform complex performance simulations and energy yield assessments using industry-standard software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope).
• Conduct technical due diligence for new project acquisitions and existing asset enhancements.
• Review and approve design documents prepared by internal teams and external consultants.
• Collaborate with procurement, construction, and operations teams to ensure designs are constructible and align with project objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in solar PV technology, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior design engineers and technical staff.
• Develop and maintain design standards, tools, and templates to improve efficiency and consistency.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

Helioscope

AutoCAD

ETAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a globally recognized leader in renewable energy solutions and is actively seeking an exceptional Lead Solar PV Design Engineer. This role is specifically structured as a remote-first position, allowing top talent to contribute from anywhere within the specified regions, with a primary focus on supporting our operations and projects originating from Cape Town, Western Cape . The Lead Solar PV Design Engineer will be responsible for the technical design and engineering of utility-scale and commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. You will spearhead the design process, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of our solar installations. This role demands a deep technical expertise in PV system design, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead and mentor junior engineers in a distributed team environment. Join us and play a crucial role in accelerating the transition to clean energy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical and mechanical design of utility-scale and commercial solar PV systems, from conceptualization to detailed engineering.
• Develop system specifications, single-line diagrams, equipment layouts, grounding designs, and stringing designs.
• Perform complex performance simulations and energy yield assessments using industry-standard software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope).
• Conduct technical due diligence for new project acquisitions and existing asset enhancements.
• Review and approve design documents prepared by internal teams and external consultants.
• Collaborate closely with procurement, construction, and operations teams to ensure designs are constructible and align with project objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in solar PV technology, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior design engineers and technical staff.
• Develop and maintain design standards, tools, and templates to improve efficiency and consistency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in solar PV system design and engineering.
• Proven experience leading the design of large-scale (10MW+) solar PV projects.
• Expert proficiency in PV system design software such as PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and ETAP.
• Strong understanding of AC/DC electrical systems, power electronics, grid interconnection, and structural considerations for PV installations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, essential for a remote-first environment.
• Knowledge of South African grid codes and regulations is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• As a remote-first employee, you will enjoy the flexibility and autonomy to work from a location that suits you best, while being an integral part of our global team.
• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• You will have access to professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance, to further enhance your expertise.
• We provide the necessary tools and support for a productive remote work experience.
• Join a pioneering company at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, contributing to impactful projects with a positive environmental footprint, all while enjoying the benefits of a fully remote role supporting Cape Town based initiatives.