Design Engineer – Solar PV & BESS

The Design Engineer will be a primary driver of SolarAfrica’s engineering design function, ensuring all Solar PV and BESS projects meet the highest technical standards, align with legal and funder requirements, and reflect industry best practices. This role will lead the design lifecycle — from conceptualization to detailed engineering packs, while supporting cross-functional teams in Sales, Project Delivery, and O&M.

The position will require a deep understanding of Solar PV and BESS technologies, a commitment to continuous product research and testing, and the ability to implement lessons learned into future designs.

Existing sites range from 50kWp+, with new projects from 1MW upwards, including utility-scale developments. Occasional overtime may be required for deadlines, and ad hoc travel within South Africa and other African countries will be expected.

Position of the job in the organisation: The successful candidate will report directly to the Senior Electrical Engineer.

Principal responsibilities:

Core Design & Engineering

Lead the design of Solar PV and BESS systems, ensuring compliance with SolarAfrica’s technical standards, SANS/NRS regulations, and contractual obligations.

Prepare, review, and sign off detailed project designs, drawings, simulations, Scope of Works (SOW), Bill of Quantities (BOQ), and yield reports.

Utilise solar-specific design software (PVSyst, Helioscope, AutoCAD Electrical) for accurate modelling, layouts, and technical documentation.

Conduct feasibility studies and engineering due diligence on proposed sites, technologies, and suppliers.

Ensure designs incorporate lessons learned from previous projects to mitigate risks and improve performance.

Standards, Processes & Quality

Draft, update, and enforce SolarAfrica’s technical standards, requirements, and processes.

Actively review and refine design processes to maintain world-class delivery standards.

Ensure contractor designs and as-built documentation comply with SolarAfrica’s technical requirements.

Cross-Departmental Support

Provide technical design input to Sales, Project Development, and Business Development teams.

Support O&M by troubleshooting design-related performance issues and recommending technical improvements.

Participate in engineering “lessons learned” sessions and create recommendations for continuous improvement.

On-Site & Commissioning

Perform commissioning checks to ensure installed systems meet the approved design specifications.

Conduct on-site assessments to identify design constraints and provide formal feedback reports.

Innovation & Research

Research and evaluate new products, materials, and technologies to integrate into future designs.

Stay informed on industry advancements and regulatory changes impacting PV and BESS design.

Any other job duties associated with this role 

PERSON DESCRIPTION

Experience:

Minimum: 3+ years’ proven experience in the design of Solar PV sites ≥1MW and BESS systems ≥500kWh.

Experience providing technical design support during project implementation and on operational sites for Solar PV and BESS systems

BEng/BSc/BTech in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.

Proficiency in CAD (AutoCAD Electrical), PVSyst, Helioscope, and MS Office Suite

Valid driver's license and willing to travel

Specific attributes:

Strong design and technical problem-solving skills.

Ability to interpret and create detailed technical drawings.

Attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy.

Effective communicator across technical and non-technical audiences.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively under tight deadlines.

Comfortable working at heights during site assessments.

Desirable attributes:

SANS 10142 and NRS 097-2 standards for embedded generation.

Networking and industrial communication protocols (Modbus, RS485, Ethernet).

Knowledge of 1000V & 1500V DC systems, surge protection, and grounding systems.

What does success look like?

By Month 3

I will fully understand SolarAfrica’s technical design processes and start implementing them.

I will build strong relationships with the engineering team and relevant stakeholders.

I can review technical requirements and assist with updates to ensure compliance.

By Month 6

I will independently deliver high-quality engineering designs and complete full engineering packs.

I can improve efficiency in contractor compliance and design documentation management.

I can use all solar-specific design software at SolarAfrica with confidence and precision.

By Month 12

I will be influencing and improving SolarAfrica’s technical standards and guidelines.

I will be leading engineering due diligence for new products and projects.

I will be recognised as a key resource for technical troubleshooting and performance optimisation.

Core Values:

We hire, reward, and recognise our team against these values. It is imperative that you believe in these values and demonstrate them consistently.

We are passionate and proud of what we do.

We communicate candidly, especially when it is difficult.

We take the initiative, share our mistakes, and grow together.

We are dependable and take accountability.

No one person is bigger than the solution - no egos.