Performance Engineer - Primoris Renewable Energy

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Performance Engineer I will be responsible for energy modeling and performance evaluation of PV plants at the proposal phase, engineering iterations and construction phase for individual projects as needed. This individual will be responsible for solar PV system size optimization based on energy generation requirements from the client. This person will be responsible for working closely with 3rd party engineering firms during the design phase of each PV power plant to ensure MET equipment is properly scoped and displayed in the construction drawings. During plant performance testing, this individual will support the Senior Performance Engineer in confirming the capacity output of the PV plant(s) meet contract requirements. This person will work closely with the construction and commissioning teams for necessary PV plant diagnostics related to performance and functionality of the power plant during construction, commissioning and warranty phases of each project. This individual will support the internal Electrical Engineering team as requested or directed by the Senior Performance Engineer and/or Engineering Manager.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop PVsyst energy generation models for project proposals as well as awarded & constructed projects for monofacial, bifacial, thin-film or any other emerging solar PV module technologies.
• Support the solar PV plant Performance Testing contract exhibit(s) development and technical negotiations with the Client.
• Evaluate utility-scale PV systems modeled/measured performance using PVsyst to create linear regressions
• in accordance with ASTM E2848-13.
• Calculate system availability from data collected by SCADA or on-site testing as needed.
• Contribute to ongoing research efforts to improve modeling of PV systems throughout their lifetime.
• Provide Commissioning and Performance Testing support to Operations and Site Construction team.
• Apply expertise about potential PV system component failure, potential modeling issues, and site design to
• troubleshoot current PV systems operating below expected levels of Guaranteed Capacity & energy production.
• Prepare test reports and give technical presentations on the testing results to Client, as required.
• Provide review of field-testing data such as PV array infrared imaging and open-circuit voltage testing to identify performance issues or component failure. Identify any fault patterns based on the electrical characteristics (I-V Curve, open-circuit voltage, hotspots, potential short circuit conditions) and validate defect evidence in potential warranty claims.
• Participate in calls with customers answering questions on PV system performance and recommending
• possible next steps for performance investigation.
• Design data visuals and written reports for audiences ranging from technical experts to management personnel.
• Draft work orders under existing MSA’s for Third-party Subject Matter Experts (SME’s)/Consultants.
• Assist Senior Performance Engineer with the scheduling of tasks both in Pre-construction & construction stages of projects.
• Support ‘Request for Quote’ (RFQ) process working with MET vendors in support of Estimating Department.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the Senior Performance Engineer.

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Experience with modeling of modules, racking, inverters and associated equipment for proper energy modeling of utility scale solar PV projects.
• Ability to understand manufacturer’s modeling parameters, application limitations and commissioning guidelines.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and follow through on assigned tasks and projects with minimal supervision.
• Able to work in a fast-moving environment while maintaining a positive attitude in stressful situations.
• Ability to interact with various outside parties professionally via email, text, telephone and/or in person.
• Strong organizational skills necessary to document and track issues from inception to resolution.
• Outstanding problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze situations and recommend solutions.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

SOFTWARE PACKAGES TO BE USED:

• Microsoft Teams for Internal Communication
• PVsyst
• Microsoft Excel
• Python and/or R coding experience preferred
• Solmetric & Seaward Software
• Any other package as required

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be proficient in PVsyst and Microsoft Office and demonstrated ability to model expected system output for utility-scale PV projects through PVsyst or similar software highly preferred.
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, or Data Analytics Engineering or related engineering discipline from an ABET accredited institution.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to read and understand technical plans and specifications.