Specialist Asset Technician (Solar)

Energy Vault; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A technical services firm is seeking a Specialist Asset Technician to manage a 15MW solar PV plant in Richards Bay. The role involves performance monitoring, onsite maintenance, and ensuring health and safety compliance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, a valid wireman’s license, and at least 5 years of experience in renewable energy. Strong troubleshooting skills and proficiency with SCADA systems are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid wireman’s licence and trade certificate.
• At least 5 years of experience in the renewable energy sector.
• Familiarity with South African electrical standards (e.g. SANS 10142-1).

Responsibilities

• Monitor daily performance of the solar PV plant.
• Perform routine electrical inspections and maintenance activities.
• Act as the primary on-site representative for the asset owner.

Skills

Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills

Proficient with SCADA systems

Strong technical knowledge of solar PV systems

Valid Wireman’s Licence

Electrical trade qualification

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or similar

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Monitoring tools

Job description

Note: This role is with Matriarch, a Fedgroup partner company.

Matriarch is looking for a hands-on, technically skilled Specialist Asset Technician to manage a 15MW solar PV plant in Richards Bay. You’ll monitor performance, carry out onsite maintenance, and ensure health and safety compliance combining data-driven asset oversight with practical technical work.

About Us:

Matriarch optimizes energy and property assets with advanced IoT technology, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and measurable returns. It delivers industry-leading Solar O&M and customized Utilities Management solutions, always keeping the client front of mind. By driving innovation, Matriarch empowers both clients and employees for long-term success in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Purpose of the Role:

The Specialist Asset Technician is responsible for the performance monitoring, reporting, and technical oversight of a 15MW solar PV plant in Richards Bay. The role combines the analytical and reporting duties of an asset manager with hands-on technical responsibilities related to operations and maintenance. The successful candidate must be mature, self-managed, and technically competent, holding a valid wireman’s licence, trade certificate, Health and Safety Certificates and at least 5 years of experience in the renewable energy sector.

Duties and Responsibilities

Monitoring and Reporting

• Monitor daily performance of the solar PV plant using proprietary and third-party platforms
• Identify underperformance and faults; initiate and coordinate corrective actions
• Prepare and submit monthly asset performance reports, including loss attributions
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), availability, and production metrics
• Conduct energy yield assessments and performance ratio analysis

Operations and Maintenance

• Perform routine electrical inspections and preventative maintenance activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve onsite electrical issues and faults
• Ensure all onsite work complies with health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Manage service contractors and ensure work is completed to required standards
• Maintain detailed service and maintenance records

General

• Act as the primary on-site representative for the asset owner
• Liaise with utilities, contractors, and stakeholders as needed
• Support the asset management team with data-driven insights and field verification
• Manage and prioritise tasks independently with minimal supervision

Qualifications and Experience

Educational Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, National Diploma in Electrical Engineering or similar

Experience

• At least 5 years’ experience in solar asset management or O&M, preferably in a commercial or industrial (C&I) context
• Strong technical knowledge of solar PV systems, components, and monitoring tools
• Experience with PPA-based billing models and performance reporting
• Familiarity with South African electrical standards (e.g. SANS 10142-1)

Skills and Competencies

• Valid Wireman’s Licence
• Electrical trade qualification
• Proficient with SCADA systems, monitoring tools, and Microsoft Excel
• Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills
• Valid driver’s license and own reliable transport
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with remote teams