JOB SUMMARY:
The PV Project Engineering Intern supports the technical development of commercial and utility-scale solar electric system projects. The intern will assist in engineering analysis, site evaluation, and technical documentation to support project implementation. They will contribute to system performance assessments, technical reviews, and compliance verification with applicable electrical codes and standards. Deliverables include technical reports, site evaluation documentation, equipment validation, interconnection application support, and energy production modeling. The Project Engineering Intern will gain exposure to various aspects of solar project engineering while supporting technical decision-making throughout the project development process. Additionally, they may contribute to engineering standard operating procedures, technical research, and data analysis.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct detailed site evaluations for targeted projects, including due diligence review and pre-engineering support
- Perform system modeling and energy production calculations using industry software like PVsyst and HelioScope
- Develop site layouts and conceptual designs for solar array configurations
- Gain understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC), International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)
- Support the development and maintenance of engineering standard operating procedures
- Review technical specifications for equipment selection and compatibility
- Prepare technical documentation for interconnection applications and permitting
- Conduct electricity tariff analysis and load versus energy generation analysis
- Complete preliminary engineering calculations for electrical design, including string sizing, voltage drop, and equipment selection
- Assist with technical portions of RFP responses
- Develop single-line diagrams, conceptual layouts, and other technical drawings
- Work closely with equipment vendors to evaluate technical specifications and compatibility
- Support technical problem-solving activities for site-specific challenges
- Assist with energy yield assessments and performance optimization studies
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The PV Project Engineering Intern does not currently supervise any staff members.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:
High school diploma and three years progress towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or related field required. Graduating seniors with a BS degree will be given priority. Understanding of solar photovoltaic technology and grid-tied solar PV systems. Proficiency with MS Office suite required; familiarity with engineering software such as AutoCAD, PVsyst, or HelioScope is a plus.
POSITION ROUTINELY INTERFACES WITH:
- Engineering team
- Sales and Business development team
- Construction and estimating department
- Equipment vendors and manufacturers
- Technical consultants
- All employees, including Senior and Executive Management
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Conducts work in both a field-type environment or in a professional office setting with local travel to jobsites to conduct inspections.
Physical working conditions may involve the following:
• Lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Extended periods of sitting, walking, standing, reaching, and/or bending.
• Extended periods of reading fine print on a computer or in paper-based format.
NON-PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Routine aspects of this position may require the following non-physical demands:
• Analytical and logical reasoning.
• Problem solving and researching skills.
• Time management and organizational skills.
POTENTIAL HAZARDS:
Routine aspects of this position may place the incumbent in situations where they may be susceptible to potential hazards from the following:
• Trips, slips and/or falls while on customer property.
• Chemical abrasives used in office and kitchen cleaning.
