Project Development Engineer

JOB SUMMARY:

Lead projects through the design process and provide continuing support through project construction. Design Solar PV systems, and microgrid systems using engineering calculations, spreadsheets, and other programs including AutoCAD. Prepare Proposals for potential work by putting together preliminary designs, estimating material costs, researching materials, and putting together professional proposal documents.

JOB LOCATION:

The incredible area of Charleston, SC which has been repeatedly designated as one of the best places to visit and live in the US. No remote work option.

WORK DAYS/HOURS:

Typical office work schedule is 8:30 AM to 5 PM Monday – Friday. Occasional work and or travel on weekends. The position requires some travel throughout the US and overseas which may be up to 20% of the time or more.

JOB DUTIES:

1. Lead multiple projects concurrently from initial concept through design and into construction.
2. Ensure projects meet technical design and code requirements, track material procurement and provide field support to site superintendents during construction.
3. Cooperatively coordinate with the Operations team to assist in preparing construction schedules & and developing project submittals.
4. Maintain constant communication with Operations team Site Superintendents in the field to discuss issues and come up with solutions.
5. Cultivate and maintain effective business relationships with GCs and/or customers, and problem-solve any issues that arise during pre-bid, pre-construction, construction, or post-construction.
6. Assist in the design process including performing site visits, evaluating existing electrical infrastructure, performing engineering calculations, understanding, and applying the National Electrical Code (NEC) code and power system design principals, and drafting in AutoCAD (electrical one-line diagrams, conduit routing plans, and module layouts) programs to design Solar PV systems, microgrid systems and battery back-up systems.
7. Size and create panelboard, conduit, wiring, and equipment schedules.
8. Design array layouts, equipment plans, electrical line diagrams, and routing plans for array interconnection.
9. Maintain familiarity with project-specific AHJ, utility, state, and local codes to ensure code compliance.
10. Study blueprints, schematics, specifications, and all other documentation and determine methods, materials, and equipment needed to provide a full turnkey installation.
11. Attend Contractor update meetings and give updates on project status.
12. Prepare preliminary layouts and electrical designs, using AutoCAD, Google Earth, and Helioscope/PVSyst, of Solar PV systems on tops of buildings, in open fields, and in other locations for Government and Commercial proposals.
13. Lead and/or assist the Business Development Team & Operations Team in preparing, writing technical Requests for Information (RFIs), and writing formal letters.
14. Work with the estimating department to provide technical assistance, design services, and RFQ support for proposals.
15. Contact manufacturers and suppliers to obtain current pricing on materials and store information in an organized manner for others to use.
16. Take continuing education classes to further knowledge in Solar PV Design, battery microgrid systems, EV Charging Stations, Generators, National Electric Code, and others.
17. Support development and ongoing review of standard operating procedures and maintain Engineering technical reference database.
18. May assist in training lower-level apprentice technicians, designers, drafters, and others.
19. Attend project installations and help to complete installation by providing hands-on work, supervision, safety oversight, etc. as needed and for personal development.
20. Perform related work and other job-related duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a ABET accredited university. Electrical engineering is preferred but not required.
2. U.S. Citizenship Required.

EXPERIENCE:

Previous experience in the design of solar PV and/or power systems is highly desirable but not required. Military experience (Veteran) is highly desirable but not required.

Previous experience in government contracting and construction is required.

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, & OTHER:

The basic ability to understand documents, define problems, and draw valid conclusions is required. The ability to perform math computations needed in trade, read blueprints, and understand basic building code knowledge as it relates to work in the related trade is also required. Must have completed or completed within 90 days of employment the OSHA 10-hour safety program. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office programs, and helioscope, PVSyst software is required as well as excellent social skills. English language skills required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, OTHER:

A valid driver’s license is required at the time of hire. Driver’s license must be maintained as a condition of continued employment. A valid US Passport is required, if the applicant does not have a US Passport one must be obtained within 90 days of employment. Must be able to pass a background check and not have any previous or current legal issues that would restrict security access to US Military Bases. Engineer-in-Training (EIT) and NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP) certifications are preferred.

SUPERVISION/TECHNICAL RESPONSIBILITY:

Sometimes directly oversees junior-level technicians or designers. May spend over 20% of time conducting supervisory responsibilities. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include planning, assigning, and directing work; addressing complaints and resolving problems; training employees; appraising performance; and assisting with hiring and disciplining.