Principal Solar PV System Architect

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Substantial base salary, annual bonus,

Medical aid, life insurance, provident

Continued learning & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Solar PV System Architect to join our Durban team. This senior role drives the technical direction for large-scale PV projects, from concept to detailed system architecture and performance optimization, ensuring safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

The ideal candidate has a Master's in Electrical/Renewable Energy Engineering and at least 8 years of progressive PV design experience, with expertise in PV components, interconnection standards, storage

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or related discipline.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in the design and architecture of Solar PV systems.
• Extensive knowledge of PV system components, grid interconnection standards, and energy storage technologies.
• Proficiency in PV system design software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, power systems, and control strategies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Superb communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions and present complex designs.
• Experience working with various environmental and regulatory frameworks related to renewable energy projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design of complex, utility-scale and distributed Solar PV systems.
• Perform detailed site assessments, resource analysis (solar irradiance, wind patterns), and feasibility studies.
• Develop comprehensive system designs, including electrical schematics, component selection (panels, inverters, mounting structures), and energy storage integration.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards, building codes, and safety regulations.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs prepared by engineering teams and external consultants.
• Collaborate with project managers, procurement, and construction teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Optimize system performance through advanced simulation tools and post-installation analysis.
• Stay at the forefront of solar technology advancements, evaluating new components and methodologies for integration.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and design staff.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in Electrical or Renewable Energy Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

Helioscope

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in renewable energy solutions, is seeking an exceptional Principal Solar PV System Architect to join their expanding team in Durban . This senior position is crucial for designing and implementing large-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems, encompassing everything from initial concept development and site analysis to detailed system architecture and performance optimization. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting the technical direction for solar projects, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. This is a strategic role requiring deep technical knowledge and the ability to influence project outcomes in the dynamic KwaZulu-Natal energy landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design of complex, utility-scale and distributed Solar PV systems.
• Perform detailed site assessments, resource analysis (solar irradiance, wind patterns), and feasibility studies.
• Develop comprehensive system designs, including electrical schematics, component selection (panels, inverters, mounting structures), and energy storage integration.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry standards, building codes, and safety regulations.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs prepared by engineering teams and external consultants.
• Collaborate with project managers, procurement, and construction teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Optimize system performance through advanced simulation tools and post-installation analysis.
• Stay at the forefront of solar technology advancements, evaluating new components and methodologies for integration.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and design staff.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the design and architecture of Solar PV systems, with a proven track record of successful project delivery.
• Extensive knowledge of PV system components, grid interconnection standards, and energy storage technologies.
• Proficiency in PV system design software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, power systems, and control strategies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Superb communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions and present complex designs.
• Experience working with various environmental and regulatory frameworks related to renewable energy projects.

Benefits

• substantial base salary, annual bonus, and a comprehensive suite of benefits covering medical aid, life insurance, and a generous provident fund.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, professional certifications, and attendance at international solar energy conferences are readily available.
• The Durban office provides a stimulating work environment, with flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.