Technician, Field II

~ Our high growth and leadership position in the renewable energy business offers outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting work environment in one of the most important industries for the 21st century. ~

First Solar is a leader in the development and manufacturing of thin film solar modules used in grid-connected solar power plants, as well as a provider of complete solar generation solutions for U.S. utilities. Our culture is one where teamwork, continuous improvement, achievement of results, and environmental responsibility are core values. We are seeking new associates who are motivated to contribute their talents to making cost-effective solar energy an important part of the world’s energy mix.

Position Overview

First Solar is seeking a Technician - Field II for the Antelope Valley Solar Ranch.

Responsibilities

• Work independently while using CMMS program completing corrective and preventative maintenance while maintaining schedule compliance and documenting daily activities. Such as but not limited to OEM recommended service, facility cleanup, equipment checks and repairs.
• Perform required safety orientations and Job Briefs for all Visitors and Contractor prior to allowing access to facility.
• Communicate with and instruct others in various tasks as defined by Senior Tech III.
• Develop a working knowledge of site environmental requirements and be proactive in compliance to regulations and preventing and/or responding to events.
• Stay current in required safety and environmental training and adhere to all safety, environmental and work rules.
• Proven computer skills in a Windows environment (Microsoft Office Products).
• Understanding of monitoring system (SCADA).
• Working with basic networks.
• Able to connect to electronic equipment (Relays, Calisto, PLCs…).
• Experience using a CMMS system for maintenance tracking (Maximo Preferred).
• Experience using electronic control systems preferred.
• Highly experienced in using and understanding testing and diagnostic equipment (multi-meter, oscilloscope, etc.).
• Items defined in First Solar Technician, Field I O&M.
• Expected to become familiar with Supervisory duties, responsibilities and contract for sites assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Job description subject to change at any time.

Qualifications

Experience:

• 8+ years combined experience in a related position dealing with troubleshooting of electrical or electronic equipment.

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• College degree preferred.
• NABCEP certification a plus.
• Electrical Journeyman or equivalent experience.

Required Skills/Competencies:

• Ability to oversee contractors in the field and ensure safety, quality and schedule adherence.
• Ability to take direction, identify problems, develop solutions, and conduct analysis independently and in collaboration with others.
• Ability to work comfortably in potentially remote field conditions and manage multiple tasks and projects.
• Ability to work in difficult customer situations.
• Available for 24-hour on-call duty to meet customer requirements.
• Experience using a CMMS system for maintenance tracking (Maximo Preferred).
• Experience using electronic control systems preferred.
• Experience reading Electrical schematics and prints.
• Good knowledge and skill for troubleshooting of AC / DC high, medium, low voltage and control circuits.
• Knowledge of in-depth testing and troubleshooting of medium voltage and high voltage equipment to include transformers, potential transformers, current transformers, current transducers, breakers, relays, contactors, breakers, motors and inverters.
• Knowledge for industry best practices for safe application and use of meters, instrumentation electrical tools.
• Knowledge in electrical safety and arc flash standards.
• Proven computer skills in a Windows environment (Microsoft Office Products).
• Highest level of Integrity.
• Desire to learn then train new and experienced technicians in new knowledge.
• Self-motivated, thinker, and responsible.
• Highly experienced in using and understanding testing and diagnostic equipment (multi-meter, oscilloscope, etc.).
• Must be able to demonstrate operational knowledge of NOP system from creation to distribution.
• Able to demonstrate complete competency in communicating with the FSOC.
• Mastery of all expectations described for a Tech Warehouse and Tech I.
• Knowledge of NEC codes.
• Able to solve problems with little or no supervision.
• Motivated to succeed and demonstrate leadership potential.
• Must have a strong Safety background with experience in Lockout Tag out and Job Hazard Analysis.
• Valid Driver’s License.

Additional Information

Reporting Relationships:

• Will report to most senior site manager or supervisor depending on site organizational structure.
• May have tasks assigned by advanced technical staff – Technician III and above.

Travel:

• Travel will be required depending on the needs of the region in which his home plant resides. 
• Typically not greater than 10% of the year.

US Physical Requirements:

Project Site (non-craft) Requirements:

• Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
• Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
• Will lift, push or pull up to 27 pounds on an occasional basis.
• Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
• 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without correction, is required.
• Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards).

Office Physical Requirements:

• All positions in our office require interaction with people and technology while either standing or sitting.
• In order to best service our customers, internal and external, all associates must be able to communicate face-to-face and on the phone with or without reasonable accommodation.

Other Information:

• First Solar is committed to compliance with its obligations under all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
• In keeping with this commitment, it attempts to reasonably accommodate applicants and employees in accordance with the requirements of the disability discrimination laws.
• It also invites individuals with disabilities to participate in a good faith, interactive process to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made without imposing an undue hardship.
• Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. 
• All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check, pre-employment drug screen, and any other test that may be required for the role.
• Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. 
• All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check, pre-employment drug screen, and any other test that may be required for the role.