Student Research Assistant - Grid Connected Solar PV

Texas A&M University System • Prairie View, TX

7d • $13 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated undergraduate student to support a grid-connected solar PV research and demonstration project integrated with a storm-disaster resilient habitat home. The student will gain hands-on experience working with Solar-Ark 15 kW converters/inverters, E-Gauge energy meters, solar PV panels, and utility grid interconnection monitoring. This role includes assisting with system performance verification, troubleshooting, energy data collection, and technical documentation under supervision.

Requirements

• Presently enrolled at Prairie View A&M University for at least nine (9) graduate or six (6) undergraduate semester credit hours during the term in which the work is to be done.
• Must be in good academic standing (SAP) as demonstrated through your college; minimum 2.0 GPA
• Sophomore level or above
• No prior experience necessary
• For work eligibility during a summer term, a student must be enrolled for at least three (3) graduate or undergraduate semester credit hours during the term in which the work is to be done or preregistered at least six (6) undergraduate semester hours or nine (9) graduate semester hours for the upcoming fall term.

Nice To Haves

• Current undergraduate student in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Renewable Energy, or related field
• On-site work at the Renewable Energy Lab + Habitat Home Demonstration Site
• Understanding of basic electrical concepts (voltage, current, power)
• Follow lab safety procedures and use proper PPE when working near energized equipment
• Strong attention to detail, safety, and technical documentation

Responsibilities

• Support operation and monitoring of Solar-Ark 15 kW inverter/converter systems (startup checks, modes, alarms, and fault reporting)
• Verify and document power flow behavior between PV production, home load demand, and utility grid import/export
• Assist with E-Gauge meter setup and validation, including: -CT orientation/placement verification -voltage reference checks -data logging and time synchronization
• Collect, organize, and analyze electrical performance data such as: -kW, kWh, voltage, current, frequency, and power factor
• Assist with PV array inspection and troubleshooting -string voltage checks & connector and wiring inspection -shading/soiling performance impacts
• Maintain clear documentation of test procedures, results, and weekly system summaries

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed