Quality Control Inspector - Solar Pv

The Quality Control Inspector will be responsible for conducting inspections and assessments of electrical systems within photovoltaic installations, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and safety regulations. This role involves reviewing technical documentation, inspecting installations, and testing electrical components to verify their proper functionality and compliance with the project’s specifications.

Position of the job in the organisation:

The successful candidate will report directly to the QC Manager.

Principal responsibilities:

Conduct Inspections:

1. Inspect electrical components of PV systems, including inverters, wiring, panel connections, grounding, and other system elements.
2. Verify that installations follow local, state, and national electrical codes (such as SANS – IEC and ESKOM Substation standards) and safety standards.
3. Perform pre-installation, in-progress, and post-installation inspections to ensure quality control and adherence to system design specifications.

Verify Documentation:

1. Review system design drawings, installation manuals, and other project documentation for accuracy and compliance with standards.
2. Ensure that all necessary permits and certifications are in place before inspection.
3. Review commissioning reports and ensure the system is performing as intended.

Testing & Verification:

1. Conduct electrical tests, such as voltage, current, resistance, insulation resistance, and continuity testing, to ensure all connections meet safety and operational standards.
2. Verify that grounding systems are installed properly and meet the required specifications.
3. Ensure that the electrical system is fully functional, properly grounded, and electrically safe before energising the system.

Safety Compliance:

1. Ensure that all electrical installations meet safety requirements and are free from hazards.
2. Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by installation teams and others on-site.
3. Monitor compliance with lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, electrical isolation protocols, and other safety measures during system testing and commissioning.

Quality Control:

1. Identify and report any non-compliance, defects, or discrepancies to the project manager or contractor.
2. Recommend corrective actions to resolve identified issues, such as rework or adjustments to electrical systems.
3. Verify that contractors adhere to quality assurance and quality control procedures.

Reporting and Documentation:

1. Prepare Project method statements, QCPs.
2. Prepare and maintain detailed inspection reports, including findings, test results, and any corrective actions taken.
3. Document any changes, issues, or deviations from original plans and ensure proper follow-up on resolutions.
4. Provide clear and comprehensive feedback to the project team regarding inspection results and the status of the PV system.

Collaboration & Communication:

1. Work closely with electrical engineers, project managers, and contractors to address technical issues during installation and commissioning.
2. Communicate inspection findings clearly to all stakeholders, including contractors, project teams, and clients.
3. Participate in team meetings to discuss the progress of projects, inspection results, and any concerns.

Post-Installation Support:

1. Inspect and verify system performance during the post-installation phase, ensuring the system operates efficiently.
2. Conduct periodic or follow-up inspections during the warranty period or during routine maintenance.
3. Assist with troubleshooting if any electrical issues arise during the operation of the PV system.

PERSON DESCRIPTION

Experience:

1. Certification in quality control.
2. Strong understanding of quality control standards and testing techniques.
3. Must have 3+ years’ experience in quality control or similar.
4. Must have solar installation or solar operational experience.
5. Must be able to understand technical drawings and site development plans.
6. Must have an Electrical Trade Test Certificate.
7. Must have an N6 Electrical Diploma or equivalent.
8. Valid driver's license and willing to travel.

Specific attributes:

1. Must be able to work to strict deadlines.
2. Proficient in MS Word, Excel.
3. Good math and technical skills.
4. Ability to read and understand electrical designs from specifications and surveys.
5. Must understand site health, safety, and environmental requirements.
6. Must be prepared to travel frequently.
7. Strong reporting skills.
8. Must be able to work independently and in a team and have strong interpersonal skills.

Desirable attributes:

1. Field construction experience desired.
2. Some exposure to mechanical and civil work is beneficial.
3. Experience in groundwork would be advantageous.
4. Central Inverter and HV experience would be advantageous.
5. Six Sigma certification and experience.
6. The ideal candidate will be passionate about the solar energy industry.

What Does Success Look Like?

By month 3:

1. I will be familiar with SolarAfrica’s business and processes, and procedures.
2. I have developed a quality control inspection checklist and inspection plan.
3. I will have undertaken a minimum of two project quality control inspections.
4. I have developed a framework to track quality control trends.

By month 6:

1. I will have undertaken a minimum of four project quality control inspections.
2. I have reviewed internal and external QCPs.
3. I have collated information into trend analysis and developed a report on potential improvement suggestions.

By month 12:

1. I will continuously perform project quality control inspections, review QCPs, and update quality control procedures to enhance compliance and efficiency.
2. I will have developed and maintained a comprehensive database of inspection results, test reports, and trend analyses for continuous improvement.
3. I will have delivered a detailed annual report on quality control performance, including key trends, compliance status, and recommendations for the following year.
4. I will have successfully supported the commissioning of multiple PV systems, ensuring they meet all electrical safety and performance standards.
5. I will have built strong working relationships with all stakeholders, ensuring proactive identification and resolution of quality issues.

Core Values:

We hire, reward, and recognise our team against these values. It is imperative that you believe in these values and demonstrate them consistently.

1. We are passionate and proud of what we do.
2. We communicate candidly, especially when it is difficult.
3. We take the initiative, share our mistakes, and grow together.
4. We are dependable and take accountability.
5. No one person is bigger than the solution - no egos.