Introduction
Introduction to SOLA
SOLA is a 100% South African, vertically integrated renewable energy solutions provider, specialising in the development, construction and operation of solar PV and battery energy storage projects. We focus on partnering with the private sector to deliver clean energy to businesses across South Africa using cutting edge clean energy generation and storage technologies.
We help our clients to grow and prosper through the adoption of low cost and reliable renewable energy, enabling them to meet their carbon reduction and sustainability targets. For more information, visit www.solagroup.co.za.
Duties & Responsibilities
The overall purpose of the position
The purpose of the role is to design and commission PV Plant SCADA systems that have high data accuracy, availability and functionality in order to operate these plants effectively.
Reports to: Senior SCADA Engineer
Location: Cape Town
Summary of Responsibilities
- Commissioning Utility Solar PV Projects: Working with the commissioning team on utility solar PV projects, ensuring alignment with project requirements, assisting with establishing commissioning plans and leading Eskom signalling compliance tests.
- Assist in the design of the physical and logical network architecture for utility solar PV power plants.
- Design, configure, and maintain Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architectures in industrial control systems (ICS) to enhance network security, visibility, and microsegmentation of traffic.
- Developing signal and IP lists for integrating devices into the SCADA network.
- Coordinating with vendors and service providers for their input on control, communication, protection, and monitoring.
- Assist in the configurations/commissioning of devices of both Primary and Secondary plant, which may include development work for RTUs and HMIs.
- Build, optimise, and maintain project SCADA and HMI platforms using Ignition by Inductive Automation, utilising modern visualisation modules.
- Establish and manage DevOps practices for SCADA deployment, including version control, automated testing, and containerization.
- Architect and manage Time-Series Databases
- Utilising expertise in SCADA and industrial communication protocols for troubleshooting, testing, and design.
- Author internal coding manuals, scripting guidelines, and standard operating procedures for the SCADA development lifecycle
- Participating in review processes, evaluating both design and performance.
- Drafting network/logic drawings to represent the SCADA network connections/control/protection.
- Creating signal schematics to show pathways and integrations within the network. Producing coding manuals for RTUs. Creating functional testing procedures, design checks and commissioning checklists.
- Engaging with team members to share knowledge and expertise.
- Regularly researching and staying informed about the latest industry technologies and communication protocols for implementation on utility-scale projects.
- Adhering to regulations, standards, and safety guidelines.
- Responding to unexpected issues or emergencies promptly.
- Providing ongoing support, maintenance, and enhancements for the operations teams.
- Assist in compiling detailed SCADA BoQs, drafting Technical SCADA RFPs, and scoping system-level requirements.
- Mentor team members, host technical cross-skilling sessions, and document troubleshooting guides.
- Performing other related duties as required, consistent with the position of SCADA Engineer.
Key Performance Indicators
- Successful completion of RETEC approval
- System and network stability of plant SCADA
- Data availability of higher than 99%
- System availability of higher than 99%
Desired Experience & Qualification
Minimum Requirements
- At minimum, BTech or BEng in Electrical/Electronic or Computer Engineering.
- At least 3 years of experience in SCADA design and commissioning.
- Experience and project references for the development and commissioning of SCADA software platforms like Ignition SCADA, Zenon or N3uron.
- Willingness to work onsite for extended periods of time (4-5 months, for example, with R&R as applicable).
- Have the ability to work under pressure and communicate effectively about the progress and delays of the project.
- Have the ability to collaborate effectively in large teams and prioritise commissioning of critical path items.
- Must be fully proficient in English (verbal and written communication).
- Must be fully computer literate (MS Office Suite and Google App Suite).
- The ideal candidate will be passionate about the renewable energy industry and will embody respect and responsibility in the full sense of the word, while enjoying contributing to a team of highly knowledgeable professionals.
At SOLA one of our core values is Dig Diversity and we are committed to transformation and embracing diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse and inclusive workplace, representative of the demographics of our society. We therefore give preference to applicants from the designated groups in alignment with our Employment Equity plan.
Interested?
To apply for this vacancy, please complete this screening questionnaire and send a copy of your CV to hireme@solagroup.co.za.
