Solar Commissioning & Maintenance Technician

Company Description

Burhani Engineers Limited Company is one of the best engineering companies in Nairobi, Kenya. We are committed to excellence and have been a cornerstone of innovation and reliability in the engineering industry for many years.

Our team of highly skilled and experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering top-notch solutions to various sectors. Our expertise spans across electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering, as well as instrumentation, allowing us to cater to a wide array of projects.

Job Description

Job Purpose

We are looking for a highly skilled Solar Commissioning & Maintenance Technician to join our company. The ideal candidate will be responsible for testing, troubleshooting, commissioning and maintaining solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. This role requires expertise in solar system diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting, and ensuring optimal system performance.

Key Responsibilities

1. System Commissioning:

• Conduct pre-commissioning inspections to verify system installation and compliance with design specifications of solar projects with BESS.
• Perform system testing and functional checks on solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, and battery storage systems.
• Configure and program inverters, monitoring systems, and power management software for optimal performance.
• Work with different PCS and BESS.
• Work with supervisory systems like Com Ap and Deep Sea.
• Equipment tagging and labeling proficiency.
• Ensure grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid solar systems meet regulatory and performance standards.
• Document commissioning processes and prepare system acceptance reports for clients and stakeholders.

2. Preventive & Corrective Maintenance:

• Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance on installed solar PV systems.
• Diagnose and repair system malfunctions, including inverter failures, panel degradation, and wiring faults.
• Monitor system performance using remote monitoring tools and on-site diagnostic equipment.
• Replace or upgrade faulty components to improve efficiency and system lifespan.
• Submit detailed maintenance logs and report findings to management.

3. Troubleshooting & Repairs:

• Respond to customer service calls and resolve issues related to solar power systems.
• Identify electrical, mechanical, and software-related faults affecting system performance to reduce downtown time.
• Conduct voltage, current, and insulation resistance tests to pinpoint issues.
• Ensure proper grounding, surge protection, and other electrical safety measures are in place.

4. Safety & Compliance:

• Adhere to local and international electrical codes, safety regulations, and solar industry standards.
• Follow strict workplace safety procedures, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Ensure proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are followed during system repairs and maintenance.

5. Client & Team Coordination:

• Provide technical support and training to internal stakeholders on solar system operation and maintenance.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and field technicians to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Provide Management with work performance reports, maintenance recommendations, and energy efficiency tips.

• Training junior technicians and new employees in maintenance best practices.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Solar PV Technology, or a related field.
• Seven (7) years’ experience in solar PV system commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Certification in Solar PV Installation under EPRA regulations in Kenya) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of solar PV technology, battery storage systems, and hybrid solar solutions.
• Experience with grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid solar energy systems with BESS.
• Knowledge of solar monitoring software, energy meters, and remote troubleshooting tools.
• Familiarity with local electrical codes, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Key Skills & Competencies:

• Technical proficiency in solar system commissioning and maintenance.
• Understanding of different monitoring parameters for production optimization and reduced downtime.
• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills for solar PV systems and BESS.
• Proficiency in electrical testing tools such as multimeters, IR thermometers, and insulation testers.
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings and schematics.
• Excellent communication skills to provide support and training to stakeholders.
• Physical fitness to handle fieldwork and work in various weather conditions.
• Attention to detail for accurate system inspections and reporting.

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Licensed Electrician or EPRA-certified Solar PV Technician.
• Experience in power quality analysis and energy efficiency audits.
• Knowledge of solar energy software and real-time performance monitoring tools.