Solar Technician Apprentice

AES CE is an established and rapidly growing renewable energy company with regional headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT. This position will cover assigned O&M activities associated with the solar PV sites and substations for utility-scale Solar Energy Plants in Charles City, VA. The AES Operations team is looking for a Solar Apprentice with an understanding of performing Preventative & Corrective maintenance.

About the role

This individual will play a pivotal and integral role in ensuring that AES CE operates the portfolio to standards that exceed the industry’s best practices. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter who can take direction from Field Service leads and team members. As AES CE grows to become one of the leading IPPs in the industry, this role will provide an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for assigned O&M activities associated with the solar PV sites and substations for utility-scale Solar Energy Plants in Charles City, VA.
• Performs/assists with corrective, preventive, and emergency maintenance and operations for equipment, including but not limited to installed Inverters (SUNGROW, HITACHI, SIEMENS, ABB), Trackers (SOLTEC & ATI), Combiner Boxes, PV Modules, DC Collection equipment and systems, AC Collection and Distribution equipment and systems.
• Performs/assists with routine maintenance work (electrical troubleshooting and repair, instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting, basic Inverter troubleshooting) up to their capabilities, as assigned and directed by the supervisor and work orders from maintenance planners.
• Assist/learn how to prepare and implement switching and clearance orders.
• Operates electrical and mechanical power plant systems.
• Participates in comprehensive and ongoing training as required, demonstrating AES CE's commitment to professional development.
• Performs/assists with technical and administrative duties associated with operating and maintaining a power plant.
• May assist with site vegetation management plans, including running tractors, riding mowers, and other vegetation maintenance equipment as needed.
• Writes/assists with Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions, and other documents assigned.
• Ensures work follows Environmental and Safety requirements and is appropriately documented.
• May perform work independently and in work crews, depending upon skills, experience, and job in hand.

Requirements

• Understands and promotes general workplace safety and the ability to follow safety standards and help the company improve upon the standards in place.
• Experience with electrical systems and familiarity with basic safety principles including LOTO and Electrical Safety.
• Must have experience operating personal computers with technical proficiency in standard business software. Experience with SCADA and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems is highly recommended.
• Ability to excel in a collaborative, cross-functional, and geographically diverse organization.
• Integrity and excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing, with leaders and colleagues.
• Promotes the site team; is an assertive teammate willing to assist others when appropriate.
• High-energy, developed interpersonal skills, and a strong work ethic.
• Meticulous, able to synthesize complex analysis, approach new challenges creatively, and summarize information to support critical decision-makers.
• Excellent hands-on abilities with strong technical skills.
• Ability to read, write, and understand English.
• Knowledge of applicable safety and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrates proactive enthusiasm for solving problems and adding value to the company.
• Maintains a current level of professional knowledge.
• Focuses on personal growth and development by actively seeking feedback and responding with action.
• Ability to establish a positive and professional working relationship with all individuals.
• Communicates openly and honestly and does not engage in gossip.
• Models professional behaviors of conduct and etiquette.

Qualifications

• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• (Preferred) Possess a Technical degree or Solar certification.
• Experience in solar system installation as an asset.
• Basic knowledge of electrical or mechanical fundamentals.

Working Conditions

• Working outside in a standard solar power plant and office environment, including high/low ambient temperatures and high/low humidity areas, and possibly working at heights.
• Requires standing, sitting, walking, kneeling, twisting, climbing stairs and ladders, and entering plant equipment to access, inspect, or collect data on plant equipment.
• Requires personal protective safety equipment (FR Clothing, safety glasses, hard hat, appropriate footwear, ear plugs, etc.).
• May be required to work around rotating and energized equipment, hazardous materials, and chemicals.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Work overtime and non-standard working hours as required.
• Travel to sites outside the typical area to support team members in the region.
• On-call duties are at least one week each month unless other team members are willing to cover your shift.

Pay

The expected salary for this position, at commencement of employment, is between $26.00 and $31.03 per hour. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package also includes an annual bonus.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance.
• 401(k) eligibility.
• Paid time off (including vacation, sick leave time, and parental leave).