Remote Principal Solar Architect

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Stock options

Generous PTO

Remote work

Home office budget

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Remote Principal Solar Architect to lead design/engineering for utility-scale PV projects. You will guide teams, set design standards, and ensure architectural integrity and technical excellence from concept to detailed design.

With 10+ years in solar, you will oversee technical direction, mentor engineers, and drive innovative, cost-effective systems while staying compliant with industry standards. This executive role offers global remote work flexibility and career impact.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in solar energy with large-scale PV design/engineering.
• Lead or principal engineer on complex solar power plant developments.
• Deep understanding of PV modules, inverters, mounting, and interconnection.
• Proficient with solar design/simulation software (PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD).
• Strengths in power systems analysis, feasibility, and financial modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design and conceptualization of utility-scale and commercial solar plants.
• Develop innovative, cost-effective designs meeting performance and safety standards.
• Oversee detailed engineering drawings, specs, and project docs.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to solar engineers and designers.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site assessments, and technology evaluations.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement, and construction teams for delivery.
• Stay updated on emerging solar tech and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Act as key technical contact for clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Education

Master's or PhD in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

Helioscope

AutoCAD

Power systems analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a trailblazer in the renewable energy sector, renowned for its innovative approach to large-scale solar energy solutions. We are seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Remote Principal Solar Architect to lead our design and engineering efforts. This is a critical, fully remote position where you will be responsible for the architectural integrity and technical excellence of major solar projects, from conceptualization through to detailed design. You will guide teams, set design standards, and ensure that our solar solutions are not only efficient and reliable but also pioneering. This role offers the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to contribute your extensive expertise from anywhere, while shaping the future of solar energy. If you are a seasoned solar professional with a passion for innovation and leadership, this is an unparalleled opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and conceptualization of utility-scale and commercial solar power plant projects.
• Develop innovative and cost-effective system designs that meet performance, reliability, and safety standards.
• Oversee the creation of detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of solar engineers and designers.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site assessments, and technology evaluations for new solar projects.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement, and construction teams to ensure successful project delivery.
• Stay abreast of emerging solar technologies, industry trends, and best practices, integrating them into design strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as a key technical point of contact for clients and stakeholders on architectural and design matters.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of extensive experience in the solar energy industry, with a strong focus on design and engineering of large-scale PV projects.
• Demonstrated experience as a lead or principal engineer on complex solar power plant developments.
• Deep understanding of PV module technology, inverters, mounting systems, and grid interconnection.
• Proficiency with solar design and simulation software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD).
• Expertise in power systems analysis, project feasibility, and financial modeling related to solar projects.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire technical teams in a remote environment.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including a substantial base salary and significant bonus opportunities.
• Premium health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous stock options and long-term incentive plans.
• Extensive paid time off and flexible holiday arrangements.
• Home office setup budget and ongoing technological support.
• Unparalleled opportunities for impact and career growth at the forefront of renewable energy.
• Access to continuous learning and development programs.
• Remote work flexibility with a focus on work-life balance.