PV Performance Engineer
Intersect · Time, IL · 3 wk ago
Engineering$189k–$202k/yrFull-time
About the role
This position is part of Intersect’s Engineering team and focuses on ensuring the utility-scale solar portfolio performs at its highest potential. Key responsibilities include leading PV capacity testing and performance validation, resolving plant performance challenges, advancing energy modeling, and supporting operations post-completion.
Responsibilities
- Lead PV Capacity Testing & Performance Validation, Resolve Plant Performance Challenges
- Plan and execute PV capacity testing in accordance with ASTM E2848, delivering accurate, defensible assessments of plant performance.
- Develop testing protocols, coordinate field execution, and synthesize results into clear technical reports.
- Partner with internal and external stakeholders to validate performance guarantees and resolve discrepancies.
- Analyze DC collection systems and large-scale plant data to identify root causes of underperformance.
- Advance Energy Modeling & Long-Run Optimization
- Develop and enhance advanced PV energy models that inform operational strategy and improve forecasting accuracy.
- Evaluate degradation trends, loss factors, and system behavior to maximize long-term generation.
- Continuously refine modeling assumptions using real-world plant data and performance analytics.
- Lead DC collection system design, EPC process & Support Operations post COD
- Lead technical discussions on DC collection systems with OEMs, EPC partners, and construction teams.
- Lead reliability assessment of the DC collection system.
- Support operations teams in debugging issues in DC collection systems.
- Apply power systems engineering principles to implement data-driven corrective actions.
- Translate complex engineering findings into clear, actionable recommendations for cross-functional teams.
- Strengthen Technical Standards & Industry Engagement
- Ensure compliance with electrical safety codes, testing standards, and industry best practices.
- Contribute technical expertise to internal standards development and knowledge sharing.
- Engage with independent engineers, testing providers, and industry peers to maintain technical leadership.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Direct experience supporting utility-scale solar plants through commissioning, capacity testing, or operational performance engineering.
- Demonstrated expertise conducting ASTM E2848 PV capacity and performance testing.
- Advanced proficiency in PV energy modeling and large-scale plant performance analytics.
- Strong understanding of DC collection systems, plant design, and key drivers of solar asset performance.
- Knowledge of electrical safety codes, grid integration considerations, and applicable industry standards.
- Ability to translate complex technical analysis into practical, business-aligned recommendations.
- Established relationships within the PV performance and engineering community, including independent engineers or testing providers.
- A rigorous, analytical approach combined with collaborative problem-solving skills.
- Humility, intellectual curiosity, and the confidence to lead technical evaluations while fostering inclusive teamwork.
- Alignment with Intersect’s values of Equity, Humility, Authenticity, Long-run Value, and People Come First.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Direct experience supporting utility-scale solar plants through commissioning, capacity testing, or operational performance engineering.
- Demonstrated expertise conducting ASTM E2848 PV capacity and performance testing.
- Advanced proficiency in PV energy modeling and large-scale plant performance analytics.
- Strong understanding of DC collection systems, plant design, and key drivers of solar asset performance.
- Knowledge of electrical safety codes, grid integration considerations, and applicable industry standards.
- Ability to translate complex technical analysis into practical, business-aligned recommendations.
- Established relationships within the PV performance and engineering community, including independent engineers or testing providers.
- A rigorous, analytical approach combined with collaborative problem-solving skills.
- Humility, intellectual curiosity, and the confidence to lead technical evaluations while fostering inclusive teamwork.
- Alignment with Intersect’s values of Equity, Humility, Authenticity, Long-run Value, and People Come First.
- Technical proficiency in PV energy modeling and large-scale plant performance analytics.
- Experience with DC collection systems and plant design.
- Expertise in electrical safety codes and grid integration considerations.
- Ability to communicate complex technical findings effectively.
- Collaborative problem-solving skills.
- 100% premium coverage for you and your dependents on medical, dental, and vision.
- Unlimited PTO, plus two company-wide breaks (Fourth of July & end of year).
- Up to 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave, plus 6 additional weeks for birth parents; access to family planning and family care support through Carrot and Maven.
- Mental health: Free access to Spring Health, including 5 free therapy and psychiatry sessions, plus a Headspace account for mindfulness and meditation through our physical health vendor, Wellhub+
- $150 monthly food stipend, $150 monthly reimbursement for cell phone and internet, pet insurance allowance, full home office setup, free access to UrbanSitter with $625 in quarterly company-paid credits, ActiveHero, and One Medical.
Requirements
Qualifications
Skills
Benefits
Intersect offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
Pay
Total Compensation: $188,500 - $201,500 (total compensation includes base salary + bonus in USD)
Schedule
The role is planned to start in mid-Q1, with a four-week training period leading to full productivity by mid-Q2.