Solar Technician Apprentice

AES•US, Charles City County, VA, VA

11d•$26 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

AES CE is seeking a Solar Technician Apprentice to perform and assist with operations and maintenance activities at utility-scale solar PV sites and substations in Charles City, Virginia. The role supports preventive, corrective, and emergency maintenance and operations, working under direction from field service leads, team members, supervisors, and maintenance planners. The apprentice will receive ongoing training and may work independently or as part of a crew, depending on skills, experience, and the work assigned. This position offers an opportunity for professional growth in a rapidly growing renewable energy company. The work takes place outdoors at a solar power plant and in an office environment, with possible exposure to temperature and humidity extremes, heights, rotating or energized equipment, hazardous materials, and chemicals. Duties can include physical activity and use of personal protective equipment. The role may require overtime, non-standard hours, regional travel, and on-call duty for at least one week each month. The employee must possess or be able to obtain a valid TWIC card within the first 90 days of employment. The expected starting pay is $26.00–$31.03 per hour, depending on factors such as location, knowledge, skills, and experience. Compensation also includes an annual bonus. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) eligibility, and paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and parental leave.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Basic knowledge of electrical or mechanical fundamentals.
Ability to understand and promote workplace safety, follow safety standards, and help improve existing standards.
Experience with electrical systems and familiarity with basic safety principles, including lockout/tagout (LOTO) and electrical safety.
Experience operating personal computers and technical proficiency with standard business software.
Ability to read, write, and understand English.
Knowledge of applicable safety and environmental regulations.
Strong hands-on and technical abilities.
Ability to collaborate in a cross-functional and geographically diverse organization.
Integrity and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work assertively as a teammate and assist others when appropriate.
Strong work ethic, interpersonal skills, and professional conduct.
Ability to synthesize complex analysis, approach challenges creatively, and summarize information for decision-makers.
Proactive approach to solving problems and adding value.
Commitment to maintaining professional knowledge and pursuing personal growth through feedback and action.
Ability to establish positive, professional working relationships and communicate openly and honestly.
Ability to work overtime and non-standard hours as required, travel to regional sites, and take on-call duties at least one week each month unless covered by another team member.
Possess or be able to obtain a valid TWIC card within the first 90 days of employment.
Ability to perform the physical activities and work in the environmental conditions described for the role.

Nice To Haves

Technical degree or solar certification.
Experience with solar system installation.
Experience with SCADA and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Responsibilities

Perform assigned operations and maintenance activities at solar PV sites and associated substations.
Perform or assist with corrective, preventive, and emergency maintenance and operations on plant equipment, within the employee’s qualifications and capabilities.
Perform or assist with electrical troubleshooting and repair, instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting, and basic inverter troubleshooting as assigned.
Assist with preparing and implementing switching and clearance orders.
Operate electrical and mechanical power plant systems.
Participate in required ongoing training.
Perform or assist with technical and administrative duties related to plant operations and maintenance.
Assist with site vegetation management, including operating tractors, riding mowers, and other vegetation-maintenance equipment as needed.
Write or assist with Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions, and other assigned documents.
Follow environmental and safety requirements and ensure work is appropriately documented.
Work independently or as part of a crew, depending on skills, experience, and assigned work.
Travel to other regional sites to support team members as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.