Solar Operations & Maintenance Technician (Level 2)

Energy Support Services, a New Energy Equity company, keeps solar and energy storage systems safe, reliable, and producing clean power. As our Solar O&M Technician Level 2, you will take your field experience to the next level, working independently to perform advanced inspections, preventative maintenance, and core system troubleshooting. In this role, you’ll operate safely in high-voltage environments without direct supervision, help guide junior technicians on-site, and follow a clear, defined development pathway with advancement to Technician Level 3.

Pay: $60,000 - $75,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Bonus: Up to an 8% performance bonus paid out annually.
• Equipment: Company truck, company credit card, vehicle maintenance card, tools, and equipment provided.
• Apparel: Company-provided PPE and Fire Resistant clothing kit provided (including bibs, jackets, pants, and shirts).
• Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, the company pays 80% of health insurance premiums, plus a 401(k) with up to a 7.5% company match.
• Time Off: Paid time off accrued each pay period, 120 hours per year (years 0–2), 160 hours (years 3–9), and 200 hours (10+ years), plus 11 paid holidays.
• Family: 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Insurance: Company-provided Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance at one times your annual salary.
• Growth: Company-paid certifications and training, including OSHA, NFPA 70e/70b, FAA Part 107, and the O&M Tech course series.
• Pathways: A transparent Field Tech Development Pathway with defined advancement to Technician III, progression based on demonstrated capability, not tenure.
• Education: Tuition reimbursement up to $10,000 annually for approved educational programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Safety

• Lead by example in promoting a safe working culture in the field.
• Safely perform approved hazardous electrical energy control procedures and select the exact PPE required for each task.
• Participate in and actively critique Pre-Job Briefs and Job Safety Analysis (JSA); utilize personal LOTO as a worker, or act as the work leader when approved.

Inspections & Preventative Maintenance

• Perform comprehensive electrical and mechanical inspections of solar energy systems.
• Conduct advanced preventative maintenance tasks, including infrared thermography, insulation resistance testing, and I/V curve tracing.
• Help develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules for assigned sites.

Troubleshooting

• Independently diagnose and troubleshoot system and operational issues.
• Safely operate and troubleshoot in 600Vac and 1500Vdc environments without direct supervision.
• Utilize specialized diagnostic tools and technical root-cause analysis to handle equipment repairs and replacements as needed.

Documentation

• Create and maintain detailed, accurate documentation of inspections, maintenance, and repairs with minimal oversight.
• Prepare clear technical reports and actionable equipment recommendations for the Team Lead.

Learning & Knowledge

• Stay abreast of industry best practices, safety updates, and emerging technologies.
• Share knowledge, technical expertise, and supportive guidance with junior technicians on-site.
• Contribute to improving the quality, clarity, and safety content of company training materials.
• Assist team members and perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Required: Valid Colorado Journeyman Electrician license (DORA State Electrical Board).
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in the solar industry or a related electrical field.
• Technical Skills:
  • Demonstrated understanding of electrical systems, solar energy principles, and grid-tied systems.
  • Familiar with using specialized diagnostic tools such as I/V Curve Tracers, Meggers, and Isolation testers.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and work from electrical schematics and engineering drawings.
  • Knowledge of Data Acquisition Systems (DAS) is preferred.
• Certifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Certification (and familiarity operating drones for aerial thermographic purposes).
  • OSHA 30-hour and NFPA 70e certifications are preferred.
• Leadership & Collaboration:
  • Strong analytical, time management, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proven ability to work independently and lead by example when collaborating with junior technicians.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Requirements: Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Be able to drive a vehicle confidently and with a high degree of safety.
• Be able to stand for long periods of time and walk distances up to three miles a day.
• Be able to navigate ladders, stairs, scaffolding, and ramps while maintaining 3 points of contact.
• Have the visual acuity for depth perception, no field of vision issues, and the ability to distinguish between colors.
• Be comfortable working in a variety of climate conditions which may include, but are not limited to, extreme heat (temperatures above 100°F) or extreme cold (temperatures below 32°F) for periods of more than one hour.
• Be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

The expected annual compensation range for this position is $75,000 - $95,000, encompassing base pay and potential incentive target opportunity. This range is a good faith estimate based on the position's requirements. Specific compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary depending on factors such as relevant knowledge, skills, training, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, this position may qualify for a comprehensive benefits package, including Retirement Benefits, Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and more.

About Us:

At New Energy Equity, a proud subsidiary of ALLETE, we’re leading the charge in transforming the energy landscape with innovative solar solutions 🌞. As a top player in the renewable energy sector, we’ve successfully developed over 600MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments 💼. Our projects deliver sustainable electricity to a wide range of clients, including commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers 🌍. But there’s more to us than just impressive numbers. We pride ourselves on a dynamic and engaging work environment where teamwork, continuous learning, and environmental stewardship are at the core of what we do 🌿. Our inclusive and collaborative culture encourages creativity and innovation, making our office a place where every idea is valued, and growth is a priority 💡. At New Energy Equity, you’ll join a passionate team that not only drives the clean energy future but also enjoys celebrating our successes together 🎉. With over 250 projects across the U.S. 🌎, our supportive atmosphere ensures a balanced work-life dynamic ⚖️ and a fun, fulfilling career path 🌟. Join us and be part of a forward-thinking company where your contributions are celebrated, and your professional development is supported as we work towards a brighter, sustainable future 🌍.

The statements above outline the essential functions, nature, and level of work expected as of the document’s preparation date. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties and responsibilities. New Energy Equity reserves the right to modify this job description at any time, without notice.

New Energy Equity is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, contact our HR department at amekonnen@newenergyequity.com