Design Engineer(Solar)

Role Overview

This position focuses on translating client needs and site conditions into fully engineered solar PV and storage solutions that are both technically sound and commercially viable. You will own the design process from initial site data collection through to final proposal documentation, working daily with CAD platforms, simulation software, and cross-functional teams. Your work directly shapes the quality, safety, and profitability of every project the company submits, making your engineering judgment essential to winning and delivering successful installations.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform on-site and remote assessments to capture solar irradiance levels, shading obstructions, structural constraints, and electrical load data needed for accurate system modelling.
• Translate leads from the sales team into structured client requirements, then produce complete technical and commercial proposals with clear timelines, specifications, and cost breakdowns.
• Design full solar PV layouts using CAD tools, including module placement, inverter selection, mounting system details, and single-line electrical diagrams.
• Run performance simulations and engineering calculations covering expected energy yield, string sizing, system losses, and return-on-investment to validate design choices.
• Integrate battery energy storage systems and hybrid inverter configurations into designs where client load profiles demand backup or peak-shaving capability.
• Collaborate with procurement, project management, and installation crews to ensure designed systems are buildable, code-compliant, and aligned with available equipment.
• Support compliance efforts by preparing documentation for EPRA licensing, grid connection approvals, permits, and inspections.
• Present design concepts to customers during meetings and site walkthroughs, explaining layout decisions, expected performance, and technical trade-offs in accessible language.
• Track new PV module technologies, inverter innovations, storage solutions, and evolving regulations to keep design standards current and competitive.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or renewable energy engineering; a master’s degree is an advantage.
• Five or more years of hands-on solar PV system design experience, ideally covering commercial, industrial, or utility-scale installations.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or equivalent drafting software, plus simulation tools such as PVsyst, Helioscope, PVCase, or PV*SOL.
• Solid understanding of solar modules, inverters, mounting systems, battery storage, electrical protection, and performance-affecting factors like temperature and soiling.
• Knowledge of NEC, IEEE, and IEC standards, alongside Kenyan building regulations, EPRA rules, and local permitting processes.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills for sizing, yield assessment, and cost optimisation, with careful attention to detail.
• Clear written and verbal communication abilities for preparing technical documents and interacting with clients, contractors, and internal teams.
• Valid EPRA T3 license is mandatory; PE registration or EIT/Graduate Engineer status with the Engineers Board of Kenya is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel to project sites and client offices as required; a valid driving licence is an added benefit.