Commissioning Engineer – Commercial Solar Farms
Job Specification: Commissioning Engineer – Commercial Solar Farms
Day Rate: circa £600 – £800/day
Location: UK-wide (with travel to project sites)
Contract Type: Contract / Freelance
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer to support the end-to-end commissioning of commercial-scale solar PV farms. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in electrical engineering, hands-on commissioning experience with MW-scale solar installations, and the ability to work independently to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities
Commissioning & Testing
* Perform full commissioning of solar PV systems, including DC strings, inverters, AC systems, protection equipment, transformers, and grid-connected components.
* Conduct functional tests, insulation resistance tests, IV curve testing, and system performance verification.
* Ensure all equipment is installed and operates per design specifications, manufacturer standards, and regulatory requirements.
* Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues during the commissioning process.
Documentation & Reporting
* Prepare and maintain detailed commissioning plans, test records, and handover documentation.
* Produce high-quality commissioning reports for clients, DNOs, and internal stakeholders.
* Ensure all commissioning activities are recorded according to H&S, QA/QC, and project compliance frameworks.
Technical & Stakeholder Coordination
* Work closely with EPC teams, site managers, grid operators (DNOs/IDNOs), and asset management teams.
* Support energisation procedures and liaise with the DNO for G99/G100 compliance testing.
* Provide technical guidance during the late-construction phase to ensure the project is ready for commissioning.
Health & Safety
* Ensure all work is carried out safely in accordance with CDM, site rules, and industry H&S best practices.
* Lead by example in maintaining a strong safety culture across site teams.
Required Experience & Qualifications
Experience
* 3–5+ years commissioning experience on commercial or utility-scale solar PV projects (5MW+ preferred).
* Strong working knowledge of grid-connected PV systems, inverters (SMA, Huawei, Sungrow, or similar), transformers, HV/LV systems, and SCADA platforms.
* Demonstrable experience completing successful energisations and handovers on major solar projects.
Technical Skills
* Ability to perform advanced diagnostic testing and system performance verification.
* Familiarity with G99 commissioning requirements and grid compliance processes.
* Understanding of fibre, Comms, SCADA integration is highly desirable.
Qualifications
* Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
* 18th Edition (desirable).
* CSCS / ECS, HV authorisations, or DNO-approved competencies advantageous.
* Full UK Driving Licence.
Key Attributes
* Strong problem-solving ability and technical initiative.
* Excellent communication and reporting skills.
* Ability to lead commissioning activities with minimal supervision.
* Detail-oriented with a commitment to safety and compliance