Solar Operations Engineer - Renewable Energy

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Solar Operations Engineer - Renewable Energy

Location: Milan / Madrid or Lisboa - Hybrid working

Our client is a global renewable energy company and one of Europe's largest independent power producers.

They develop, build and operate a diversified portfolio of clean energy assets, including wind, solar, and energy storage to supply reliable, affordable renewable power while minimising environmental impact. They integrate sustainability and community engagement into every project, supporting social, ecological and local economic value beyond just electricity generation.

They are looking for a Solar Operations Engineer responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, reliability, and efficiency of solar power systems. This role involves monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar installations, conducting performance analyses, and implementing improvements. You will work closely with technical teams, site managers, and maintenance providers to ensure smooth operations and maximize energy production.

Key Responsibilities System Monitoring and Performance Analysis

• Continuously monitor solar power systems using SCADA or other monitoring tools.
• Analyze performance data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Generate detailed performance reports for internal teams and clients.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Conduct regular preventive maintenance on solar installations to ensure optimal performance.
• Diagnose and resolve operational issues, including inverter failures, communication problems, and module defects.
• Coordinate with field technicians to perform corrective maintenance and repairs.

System Optimization

• Implement performance enhancement measures based on data analysis and industry best practices.
• Recommend and apply upgrades to hardware and software components.
• Collaborate with design and installation teams to integrate new technologies and improvements.

Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure all operations and maintenance activities comply with safety standards, local codes, and industry regulations.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of maintenance activities, performance data, and system configurations.
• Prepare and update operation manuals and maintenance logs.

Technical Support and Training

• Provide technical support to field technicians and clients.
• Conduct training sessions for team members on system operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Stay updated on industry developments, new technologies, and best practices.

Project Collaboration

• Work closely with project managers during the handover phase to ensure smooth transition from installation to operation.
• Participate in project planning meetings to provide operational insights and recommendations.
• Assist in the commissioning and testing of new solar installations.

About You

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in solar operations, maintenance, or a related field.
• Proven experience in monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting solar power systems.
• Experience with performance analysis and optimization of solar installations.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., NABCEP Operations and Maintenance Specialist) are highly desirable.

Competencies & behaviours

• Strong analytical abilities to interpret performance data and identify issues.
• Skilled in troubleshooting and resolving operational challenges efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective stakeholder interaction.
• High attention to detail in monitoring, maintenance, and documentation.
• Proven ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with solar monitoring and analysis platforms (e.g., SCADA systems, SolarEdge Monitoring, SMA Sunny Portal).
• Experience using data analysis tools such as Excel and Python.
• Solid understanding of PV technology, inverters, and balance of system components.
• Knowledge of electrical systems, including AC/DC circuits and power electronics.
• Familiarity with safety standards, local codes, and solar industry regulations.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.

Inclusive Application Process

Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace. We believe there is no solution to climate change without people. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world.