Overview
A solar PV utility-scale site technician is primarily responsible for the operation, maintenance, and performance optimisation of large-scale solar photovoltaic power plants. Their core duties include inspecting solar panels, conducting performance tests, troubleshooting and repairing electrical and mechanical faults, and replacing faulty or outdated components. Technicians monitor system performance to ensure the plant operates at maximum efficiency and meets energy production targets. They may maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, system performance, and repairs, and comply with safety protocols and site-specific health and safety regulations. They may oversee contractors on-site, coordinate with other trades, and sometimes provide training to junior staff or clients on system operation and maintenance procedures. The role demands a strong technical background in electrical systems, familiarity with industry codes and standards, and the ability to use diagnostic tools for testing and troubleshooting. New entrants welcome.
Responsibilities
* Health and Safety: Understand and identify risks at site, follow company and site-specific risk assessments and method statements / statements of works, report on-site concerns to relevant managers, ensure tasks are performed in accordance with industry best practice and in line with all relevant laws and regulations.
* Maintenance Activities: Perform scheduled maintenance and corrective maintenance for solar plants to ensure ongoing operation.
* Site Responsibility: Take primary on-site responsibility for plant performance, work quality, site security and appearance, including electrical systems, basic landscaping and other elements. Ensure third-party visitors are inducted and safe at all times.
* Coordination: Maintain regular contact with planners, managers and supervisors to coordinate site works and seek guidance as needed.
* Collaboration: Work with other site technicians to resolve tasks and provide information to planners, managers and supervisors in a professional and timely manner.
* Liaison: Coordinate with internal and external teams such as LV/HV and ground maintenance, sub-contractors, and other third parties as directed.
* Training and Development: Undertake required training and development opportunities professionally and diligently.
* Travel: Must be able to travel to site as required with necessary tools and equipment.
* Experience and Technical Skills: Experience of installation and maintenance of solar PV systems (ideally at utility-scale), network diagnostics and remote communications, familiarity with earthing systems (measuring and monitoring relays), understanding of central / string inverters, excellent computer skills (MS Office and performance monitoring software), knowledge of power electronics and circuitry, understanding of CCTV systems.
* Qualifications and Certifications: Commitment to continuing professional development; Level 3 Award in Electrical, Mechanical or Engineering discipline (including AM2 end-point assessment); Level 3 BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations; Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation or equivalent; Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) Gold Card.
* Desirable: Level 3 Award in Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations; qualifications or training in relevant solar PV inverter technologies; IOSH or NEBOSH certification.
* Entry Pathways: New entrants typically require GCSEs or equivalent in Maths and English and completion of a recognised apprenticeship or vocational training; Experienced electricians may pursue a relevant Level 3 qualification and hold UK driving licence, Level 3 electrical installation certification (BS7671), and ECS Gold Card. Employers may require PV inverter technology training and/or additional safety qualifications.
Role context: This description reflects typical duties and qualifications for a solar PV utility-scale site technician. It is provided to illustrate common expectations and does not imply a contractual obligation.
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