Solar PV Design Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Learning & growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leading solar energy solutions provider in South Africa to recruit a Solar PV Design Engineer for a fully remote role. You will conceptualize, design, and validate PV systems across residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects, collaborating with sales, project management, and installation teams from anywhere in the country.

You should have a strong electrical engineering background, 3+ years in PV design, and proficiency with PVSyst, Helioscope, or

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the design of Solar PV systems.
• Proficiency in PV design software such as PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, or similar tools.
• Solid understanding of solar PV technologies, components, and system configurations.
• Knowledge of South African electrical regulations, SANS standards, and grid connection procedures.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for remote work.
• Ability to manage multiple design projects and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Design and engineer solar PV systems, including array layout, components, and electrical schematics.
• Perform site assessments and feasibility studies.
• Calculate energy production estimates using PV software.
• Ensure designs comply with SANS and grid interconnection requirements.
• Prepare technical documentation including BOMs and specifications.
• Collaborate with project managers, installers, and clients.
• Stay updated on solar PV technology and regulatory changes.
• Troubleshoot and provide technical support for commissioned systems.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication

Remote work capability

Multi-project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PVSyst

Helioscope

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of innovative solar energy solutions, is actively seeking a talented Solar PV Design Engineer to join their expanding remote team. This position is crucial for the conceptualization, design, and technical validation of photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects across South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in electrical engineering, proficiency in PV system design software, and a deep understanding of solar technologies and South African energy regulations. As a fully remote role, you will collaborate closely with sales, project management, and installation teams, contributing to the successful deployment of solar energy solutions from anywhere in the country. We are committed to a sustainable future and are looking for individuals who share this vision and can contribute to our mission from their remote workspace.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer solar PV systems, including array layout, component selection (modules, inverters, mounting structures), and electrical schematics.


• Perform site assessments and feasibility studies for potential solar projects.


• Calculate energy production estimates and system performance using specialized software (e.g., PVSyst, Helioscope).


• Ensure designs comply with national electrical codes, South African National Standards (SANS), and relevant grid interconnection requirements.


• Prepare technical documentation, including design drawings, specifications, bills of materials (BOM), and proposal materials.


• Collaborate with project managers, installers, and clients to ensure smooth project execution and address technical queries.


• Stay updated on the latest advancements in solar PV technology, industry trends, and regulatory changes.


• Conduct technical reviews of designs and provide feedback for improvement.


• Support the procurement team with accurate component specifications.


• Troubleshoot and provide technical support for commissioned solar PV systems when required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.


• Minimum of 3 years of experience specifically in the design of Solar PV systems.


• Proficiency in PV design software such as PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, or similar tools.


• Solid understanding of solar PV technologies, components, and system configurations.


• Knowledge of South African electrical regulations, SANS standards, and grid connection procedures.


• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.


• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for a remote work environment.


• Ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.


• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality, accurate designs.


• Experience with battery energy storage systems (BESS) integration is a plus.


• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently from a remote location.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers exceptional flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth within the rapidly expanding solar industry. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to advancing renewable energy solutions across South Africa. We offer a supportive remote work culture and encourage innovation. This role allows you to contribute to a sustainable future while enjoying the benefits of working from home, with the opportunity to impact projects nationwide, including those in Western Cape region.