Sr Solar Farm Technician

About the Role

The Senior Solar Farm Technician is responsible for the on-site safety and generation of renewable energy at all plants in their geographical region portfolio. This role involves operating, maintaining, and monitoring solar assets and energy infrastructure through close collaboration with RWE Americas' Operators, Engineers, Asset Managers, Project Managers, and on-site Subcontractors.

The Senior Solar Farm Technician will perform, supervise, and/or coordinate the safe execution of daily operations, planned and corrective maintenance, and event response for RWE Americas assets according to applicable contracts, agreements, or procedures. They will manage one or more plants (home base) and oversee operations, maintenance, and event responses at other assigned plants in the region. Additionally, they may coordinate, supervise, and monitor third-party contractors on-site.

The role ensures all operations and maintenance activities in the region adhere to industry best practices, safety standards, RWE Americas procedures, and pertinent laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Plant Operations:
  • Oversee production of renewable energy at all plants in a particular region, ensuring reliable, safe, and efficient operation within design parameters.
  • Monitor production to ensure plants meet performance expectations.
  • Coordinate and resolve operational abnormalities.
• Plant Maintenance:
  • Supervise and coordinate maintenance and repair of plant components, including Balance of Plant (BOP).
  • Troubleshoot and resolve problems that may arise.
  • Perform preventive/predictive maintenance as required by contracts or procedures to ensure long-term profitability, plant reliability, and risk minimization.
• Technical Support:
  • Perform operational analysis to support Asset Management and Project Development.
  • Create, review, and distribute daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Stay abreast of regulations, codes, and standards related to the industry.
  • Develop relationships with suppliers to create beneficial synergies.
• General:
  • Manage contractors as required and act as a local RWE liaison.
  • Develop long-range plans and work with local civic groups.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent (required).
• Associate degree in engineering or related field from an accredited U.S. school (preferred; not correspondence or internet-based).
• NABCEP Certification or Electrical License (preferred).
• Unrestricted driver license in good standing.
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in a related renewable energy field.
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in power plant operations.
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in troubleshooting and maintenance, or supervising maintenance of medium voltage, high voltage, collection, transmission, and substation systems.
• Prior supervisory experience (preferred).
• Renewable energy experience, preferably solar (preferred).
• Skilled in at least one of the following: power plant operations, electrical and mechanical equipment maintenance, or substation maintenance.
• Competent in power plant safety protocols, electrical safety, and understanding of the NEC.
• Knowledge of and experience with hand and power tools.
• Knowledge of environmental and safety policies and procedures.
• Ability to work within tight deadlines, independently, and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel to and from job sites as assigned.
• Routine operation of computers/tablets and office productivity machinery (e.g., calculator, copy machine, printer).
• Frequent oral and written communications.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Ability to complete all required training in a satisfactory manner and timeframe.
• First aid/CPR/AED and OSHA certification.
• Adaptability to new technologies and methods.
• Ability to take ownership of responsibilities and identify opportunities for corrective work.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to push, pull, or lift tools and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work safely in extreme environments (e.g., hot sun, cold).
• Ability to walk, climb, and stand extensively during the workday.
• Office-based role with some travel and visits to other RWE Americas offices and field locations.
• Ability to sit, walk, or stand for long durations of time.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. RWE Americas is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

Pay

The hourly base salary range for this position in California is $42.08 - $56.93. The listed salary range represents our good faith estimate for this position and applies to all U.S. locations. Salary offers consider factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s education and work experience, training and certifications, and key skills, as well as market and business considerations at the time of the offer.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Life Insurance and Short-Term/Long-Term Disability.
• 401(k) match.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Education Assistance.
• Parental Leave.
• Paid time off and Holidays.
• Short-term incentives in addition to salary (for eligible employees).