Senior Field Engineer, Construction

Oakland CA

Full-time

Energy is the binding constraint on human progress. Solar and storage are the lowest cost sources of new generation but the conventional project delivery model has not changed in 30 years and deployment cannot keep pace with demand.

Planted is the execution layer between a parcel of land and a powered facility. We digitize sites optimize designs and deploy robots to build the lowest cost and fastest new power systems at the speed of manufacturing.

Were expanding our team of ambitious curious and hands-on engineers and operators who want to accelerate that transition. Come take ownership of large parts of our product company and business development as we help power the world with 100% clean and abundant energy.

Planted Solar is seeking a detail-oriented and execution-focused Senior Field Engineer to manage the successful installation of Planteds commercial- and utility-scale solar arrays. The Senior Field Engineer serves as Planteds onsite technical authority providing oversight and management of our subcontractors to ensure their execution aligns with our engineering designs. This role is key to project success requiring someone with a high attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality project installation.

This role will be responsible for training Planteds subcontractors on our array installation methods and ensuring project execution from project mobilization through testing and final completion. Throughout the installation process the Senior Field Engineer will maintain a regular on-site presence and will work with Planteds subcontractors to identify areas for efficiency safety and QC improvements. This role will act as Planteds first-in-line point of contact for subcontractors while onsite. You will also be responsible for detailed reporting throughout construction and ensuring effective subcontractor reporting methods.

You will operate cross functionally liaising with Project Managers Engineers and the Procurement team to ensure project execution that aligns with project schedule and engineering and material procurement specs.

The salary range for this full-time position is $130000 - $170000 plus stock options and benefits. Pay within the range is based on candidate experience job-specific skills education and work location. The target experience for the position is 5 years of relevant experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain a high standard for installation excellence of Planted projects and ensure successful project delivery
• Train contractors and EPCs on Planteds array installation quality control methods and specific reporting methods
• Observe installation processes and collaborate with contractors to address inefficiencies or safety concerns
• Collect input and report construction status and installation/QC data
• Utilize Planted software along with spreadsheets and other methods to maintain correct and up-to-date project status and data
• Work with contractors to identify more efficient ways to install Planted systems
• Create and update installation documentation including manuals videos QC checklists and other reference material
• Plan and prepare Planted tools and equipment required for installation
• Work with supply chain team to identify and report material defects during construction
• Develop a deep understanding of Planteds post installation machines failure modes and impact to array construction
• Act as Planted first-in-line point of contact for subcontractors while onsite
• Work with Planteds Field Robotics Engineering (FRE) team and subcontractors to establish efficient build plan

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5 years experience in field engineering and solar construction
• Understanding of mechanical and electrical concepts relevant to solar arrays
• Extremely high attention to detail. Keen eye for defects and discrepancies
• Experience working with construction contractors and field labor
• Willing to travel 75% up to 2 week stays in field
• Experience interpreting and communicating information on construction drawings
• Strong foresight ability to predict and plan for potential issues that may impede construction e.g. safety quality or efficiency
• Excellent communication and extreme organization
• Driven and outcome-oriented; able to navigate complex project dynamics
• Hands-on attitude strong ownership mentality and resourcefulness
• Inquisitive and not afraid to speak up to get necessary information or input
• Eagerness to navigate ambiguity and make good decisions with imperfect knowledge
• Desire to work in a fast-paced startup environment
• Located in the SF Bay Area or willing to relocate. When not traveling this role requires working on-site at our Oakland headquarters.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in utility scale solar construction management and oversight
• OSHA 10 or 30 Certification

*A note on qualifications: Many people only apply for jobs if they believe they can perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and will consider equivalent combinations of knowledge skills education and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

• Travel: Willingness to travel to project sites up to 75% of the time including overnight stays of up to two weeks.
• Mobility: Ability to stand and walk for 8 hours a day on unpaved uneven construction terrain. Requires frequent bending crouching and safely climbing ladders or scaffolding.
• Lifting: Ability to safely lift 50lbs carry and maneuver field equipment.
• Outdoor Environments: Capacity to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat direct sun cold rain) and within active construction zones involving dust and heavy machinery.
• Safety Compliance: Ability to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including hard hats and steel-toed boots for extended durations.

• 11 paid company holidays and flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Company-paid in-office lunches
• Stock options
• Medical vision dental and other benefits
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• 401(k)
• A chance to have an empowered meaningful and early role in climate

• You want to solve challenging problems
• You are biased towards action and focus on the vital work that drives the most impact
• You prioritize the physical and psychological safety of yourself and those around you
• You are humble embrace change and deliver and receive candid feedback
• You are optimistic about the future and can make tough decisions to help get there
• You have high expectations and coach develop and make time to help others

Planted is an equal opportunity employer committed to growing inclusively regardless of race color religion gender gender identity or expression sexual orientation national origin genetics disability medical condition age or veteran status. However you identify or whatever background you bring with you please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.