Remote Solar PV Design Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first role

Home office stipend

Annual leave

Paid holidays

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Remote Solar PV Design Engineer to join a forward-thinking solar energy company. You will design utility-scale and commercial PV systems, creating layouts, electrical diagrams and performance simulations from a fully remote location.

You should have a strong background in PV technology, electrical engineering, and design software, with at least four years of relevant experience. This role offers a flexible, remote-first work environment across SA and beyond.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in design of solar PV systems for utility-scale or commercial projects.
• Proficiency in PV design software PVsyst, AutoCAD, Helioscope or similar.
• Solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, AC/DC systems, and grid interconnection requirements.
• Familiarity with South African electrical standards and PV regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote work.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently and meet deadlines.
• Experience with energy storage integration is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer solar PV systems, including site layout, electrical design, and component selection.
• Develop detailed electrical single-line diagrams, wiring schematics, and AC/DC system designs.
• Perform energy yield assessments and system performance simulations using PVsyst, SAM, or similar software.
• Prepare technical specifications, BOMs, and design documentation for proposals and construction.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, and procurement teams to ensure design feasibility and alignment with project goals.
• Ensure designs comply with local regulations, grid interconnection standards and safety codes.
• Conduct remote site assessments and analyze site constraints to optimize system design.
• Stay updated on the latest PV technologies, components, and design best practices.
• Provide technical support during construction and commissioning as needed.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/ Renewable Energy Engineering

Tools

PVsyst

AutoCAD

Helioscope

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and forward-thinking entity within the solar energy industry, is actively recruiting a Remote Solar PV Design Engineer to become an integral part of their expanding team. This position is structured as a fully remote role, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. You will be responsible for the technical design and engineering of utility-scale and commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. This includes creating detailed system layouts, electrical schematics, and performance simulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of PV technology, electrical engineering principles, and relevant design software. This is an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic, growth-oriented company dedicated to accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions across South Africa and beyond, all within a flexible, remote-first work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer solar PV systems, including site layout, electrical design, and component selection.
• Develop detailed electrical single-line diagrams, wiring schematics, and AC/DC system designs.
• Perform energy yield assessments and system performance simulations using industry-standard software (e.g., PVsyst, SAM).
• Prepare technical specifications, Bill of Materials (BOM), and design documentation for proposals and construction.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, and procurement teams to ensure design feasibility and alignment with project goals.
• Ensure designs comply with local regulations, grid interconnection standards, and safety codes.
• Conduct site assessments remotely and analyze site constraints to optimize system design.
• Stay updated on the latest PV technologies, components, and design best practices.
• Provide technical support during the construction and commissioning phases as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in the design of solar PV systems, with a focus on utility-scale or commercial projects.
• Proficiency in solar design software such as PVsyst, AutoCAD, Helioscope, or similar.
• Solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, AC/DC systems, power electronics, and grid interconnection requirements.
• Familiarity with South African electrical standards and regulations related to PV installations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, suitable for a remote working environment.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines effectively.
• Experience with energy storage system integration is a plus.

Benefits

• Fully remote position offering work-life balance and flexibility.
• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful renewable energy projects.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• A collaborative and innovative team culture, despite the remote setting.
• Contribution towards home office equipment and internet expenses.
• Annual leave and paid holidays.