Leading Electrical Contracting Group at East Africa
Role:
An Electrical Solar Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, design, execution, and completion of solar power projects, specifically focusing on electrical systems. This role ensures that all aspects of solar energy installation projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required technical standards. The Solar Project Manager manages both technical and operational aspects, including coordinating teams, managing resources, and maintaining quality and safety throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Planning & Coordination:
- Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resources required for solar power installations.
- Ensure that solar projects align with client specifications, local regulations, and industry standards.
- Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure on-time delivery.
- Coordinate with contractors, engineers, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth project flow.
Design & Technical Oversight:
- Oversee the electrical design of solar systems, including power distribution, inverters, battery storage, and grid connections.
- Ensure all system designs comply with local and international standards, safety regulations, and best practices.
- Ensure that the installation and integration of solar panels, wiring, and electrical systems are carried out according to the design and safety codes.
- Collaborate with the engineering team to address any technical challenges during the design and implementation stages.
Project Execution & Management:
- Supervise and manage the installation of solar systems, ensuring quality control and adherence to project timelines.
- Monitor and manage the procurement and delivery of solar equipment (panels, inverters, electrical components, etc.).
- Oversee the work of electrical and mechanical teams during installation to ensure the systems meet project specifications.
- Coordinate testing and commissioning of solar systems to ensure they are functioning as expected.
Risk Management & Compliance:
- Identify and assess potential risks (technical, environmental, financial) and implement strategies to mitigate them.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards (e.g., electrical codes, environmental impact assessments, building codes).
- Ensure the project follows all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) guidelines throughout the lifecycle.
Client and Stakeholder Communication:
- Maintain communication with clients, updating them on project status, milestones, and issues.
- Ensure customer satisfaction through effective communication and problem-solving.
- Act as the primary point of contact between internal teams (engineering, design, procurement) and external stakeholders (clients, vendors, regulatory authorities).
Budget & Resource Management:
- Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring that the project is completed within financial constraints.
- Approve expenditures and track project costs throughout the project lifecycle.
- Coordinate resource allocation, ensuring that labor and equipment are available as needed to avoid delays.
Quality Assurance & Performance Monitoring:
- Implement quality control systems to ensure the highest standards of installation and performance.
- Conduct performance testing and troubleshooting to ensure the solar systems are performing optimally after installation.
- Provide training to clients on system operation and maintenance if required.
Post-Implementation Support:
- Provide ongoing technical support and maintenance for completed solar systems.
- Conduct periodic site visits for performance evaluations and recommend system upgrades or maintenance.
Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including contracts, progress reports, technical drawings, and manuals.
- Prepare and submit project status reports to stakeholders, including financial reports and risk assessments.
- Ensure that all as-built documentation is completed and handed over to the client upon project completion.
Technical Expertise:
- Solar System Design: In-depth understanding of photovoltaic (PV) system design, including electrical components such as inverters, controllers, wiring, and batteries.
- Electrical Engineering: Strong knowledge of electrical systems, grid connections, power distribution, and safety protocols.
- Energy Storage Systems: Familiarity with battery storage technologies (e.g., lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid).
- Electrical Codes & Standards: Knowledge of local and international electrical standards (e.g., NEC, IEC, UL) and regulations for solar installations.
Project Management Skills:
- Project Planning & Scheduling: Proficient in developing and managing project schedules using tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera, or others.
- Budgeting & Financial Management: Strong ability to create and manage project budgets and track expenditures.
- Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks that might affect the project timeline, quality, or cost.
- Contract Management: Experience with procurement and managing third-party vendors, contractors, and suppliers.
Leadership & Team Management:
- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, including electrical engineers, technicians, construction workers, and subcontractors.
- Strong leadership skills to ensure that all team members are motivated and working towards common project goals.
- Conflict resolution skills to handle challenges between team members or with clients.
Communication Skills:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact with internal teams, clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
- Ability to create detailed and clear reports, presentations, and project documentation.
Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills to address technical issues that may arise during design, installation, or testing.
- Ability to find innovative solutions to project challenges.
Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge:
- Familiarity with relevant local, state, and federal regulations and guidelines for solar power systems.
- Knowledge of environmental considerations and sustainability best practices in solar installations.
Software Proficiency:
- Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
- Familiarity with solar design software tools (e.g., PVsyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD for system design).
Safety & Quality Assurance:
- Knowledge of construction safety standards, especially in electrical and renewable energy projects.
- Experience in quality assurance processes to ensure that solar installations meet the highest industry standards.
Certifications (Desirable):
- Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 certification.
- Certified Solar PV Installer or Solar Design Certification (e.g., NABCEP certification in solar installation).
- Electrical Engineering or Renewable Energy-related certifications.
- OSHA certification or other safety-related certifications.
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
- A masters degree in project management or a related discipline may be an advantage.
Experience:
- 5+ years of experience in electrical engineering or solar power project management.
- Proven track record of managing successful solar installation projects, including residential, commercial, or industrial scale.
Net Savings around $2000 - $2500 + Food + Transportation + Accommodation + Airfare + All Expat benefits .
