Job Title: Solar O&M Lead – Operations & Maintenance (Renewable Energy)

Job Description:

We are seeking a dynamic Solar O&M Lead to oversee the operations and maintenance (O&M) of our company’s solar energy assets. The Solar O&M Lead will be responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, safety, and profitability of solar plants. This role requires a strong focus on adhering to regulatory standards, reducing operational risks, and ensuring maximum uptime and energy output.

The Solar O&M Lead will manage a team of engineers and technicians through subcontractors, optimizing performance while controlling costs and mitigating risks in solar power plant operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operations & Maintenance Management:

   • Oversee daily operations and maintenance of solar power plants, ensuring maximum uptime and energy output.

   • Conduct troubleshooting and implement preventive and corrective maintenance strategies to ensure efficient operations.

   • Develop, implement, and monitor O&M procedures, protocols, and processes to optimize plant performance.

   • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) like plant availability, performance ratio (PR), and energy output.

2. Team Leadership & Management:

   • Lead, train, and mentor a diverse team of engineers, site managers, and technicians across multiple locations.

   • Cultivate a culture focused on safety, high performance, and continuous improvement.

   • Manage subcontractors and ensure smooth coordination across teams for optimal plant operation.

3. Performance Optimization:

   • Analyze operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improving plant performance.

   • Implement advanced diagnostic tools, predictive maintenance practices, and digital solutions to improve energy generation and operational efficiency.

   • Address performance dips by initiating corrective measures, including cleaning cycles and other maintenance actions.

4. Vendor & Contract Management:

   • Build and maintain relationships with O&M contractors, equipment suppliers, and service providers.

   • Negotiate contracts for O&M services, spare parts procurement, and equipment warranties, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely service.

   • Monitor and ensure contractor performance against contract terms and service level agreements (SLAs).

5. Compliance & Reporting:

   • Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations across all operations.

   • Prepare and present detailed performance and maintenance reports for clients and stakeholders, offering insights and improvement recommendations.

   • Timely submission of invoices for O&M services to clients, ensuring accurate financial reporting.

6. Power Generation Monitoring:

   • Continuously monitor power generation levels and take immediate corrective actions in case of lower-than-expected production.

   • Track outages and adjust cleaning cycles based on dust levels and operational requirements to ensure optimal generation.

Qualifications & Skills:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Power Engineering or a related field.

• Advanced degrees (MBA, M.Tech) are an added advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8-12 years in the solar or renewable energy sector, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.

• Proven experience in managing O&M for multiple solar installations, including rooftop systems.

Technical Skills:

• In-depth understanding of solar PV technology, inverters, and related equipment.

• Proficiency in performance monitoring tools and predictive maintenance technologies.

• Knowledge of grid integration, regulatory requirements, and safety standards.

• DEWA Solar Engineer Certificate, DM Engineer Certificate, and Society of Engineer registration are an advantage.

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and communication skills.

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

• Valid UAE driving license is required.

Key Performance Metrics:

• Plant performance ratio (PR) and availability.

• Reduction in operational costs and adherence to budget.

• Timely resolution of plant issues and minimization of downtime.

• Compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.