Electrical Project Engineer

Birch Creek Energy, a utility-scale solar development company with projects throughout the United States, is seeking an experienced Electrical Project Engineer who thrives in our team-oriented culture and shares our mission to create a future with more renewable energy. 

Birch Creek was ranked #3 on Inc. 5000’s list of Fastest Growing Companies in 2023. 

Our headquarters is in St. Louis, with an additional office location in Los Angeles.  The ability to work from our STL or LA office is a plus factor, but remote-work candidates are also welcomed.

Job Overview:

• Reporting to the Sr Director of Execution Engineering, the Electrical Project Engineer is responsible for managing engineering from late-stage development through completion of construction. This position is an integral part of executing Birch Creek Energy’s 13 GW of solar and battery storage project pipeline in multiple states throughout the U.S.
• Through design review and construction support, the Electrical Project Engineer will ensure that projects are designed and constructed to meet Birch Creek’s technical specifications.
• Additionally, the Electrical Project Engineer will provide support to various teams at Birch Creek including Procurement, Execution Project Management, and Project Finance as projects move through design, financing, and construction.

Day to Day Responsibilities:

• Create Single Line Diagrams for Interconnection Applications that meet ISO technical requirements and integrates Owner preferred equipment.
• Create tracker and fixed tilt layouts in AutoCAD using PVCase.
• Run PVsyst energy models using Owner Input Standards.
• Create single line diagrams and preliminary drawings in AutoCAD with supporting calculations excel.
• Have a detailed understanding of project Interconnection Agreements and utility and ISO/RTO technical requirements for interconnection equipment and design standards. 
• Attend utility and ISO/RTO project specific and stakeholder meetings, monitor interconnection execution progress.
• Review and provide input for EPC Agreement and Equipment Purchase Agreement technical exhibits.  
• Review and comment on 30%, 60%, 90% and IFC design packages from Electrical, Substation, SCADA, and Mechanical design disciplines.
• Coordinate with Project Finance during Independent Engineer (IE) review and investor diligence
• Host project design meetings with EPCs and consultants.
• Support the EPC RFP process by creating technical exhibits, reviewing proposals, responding to RFPs, and reviewing equipment submittals.
• Work with local internet service providers to setup up internet for each project.
• Manage the basis of design and specification documents to provide updates based on project specifics and lessons learned.
• Complete technical specs for Owner supplied equipment like HV breakers, GSU, modules, reclosers, meters etc and review subsequent vendor submittals.
• Occasionally attend site walks with EPC during detailed design phase.
• Complete equipment reviews and provide RFI support during construction
• Review construction photos and documentation to identify any potential quality issues.
• Evaluate MC, SC, and Final completion documentation.

Knowledge & Skills

• Working knowledge of the solar and BESS design process
• Understanding of the NEC, NESC, NFPA 855, IEEE 2800, and IEEE 1547
• Ability to draft in AutoCAD
• Ability to use Electrical Engineering software like ETAP and PVsyst
• Excellent knowledge of interconnection process
• Ability to establish strong relationships with EPCs
• Proven problem solving and negotiation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment.
• General knowledge of technical standards applicable to the project interconnection design.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of related project engineer experience
• Experience with AutoCAD, ETAP, and PVsyst
• PE in Electrical Engineering is desired but not required
• If you don’t meet 100% of the above qualifications but see yourself contributing, please submit your resume.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary and bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.
• Opportunity to work with an innovative and mission-driven company.
• Career growth and development opportunities in a fast-growing company and industry.

The competitive salary rate for the successful candidate will depend on geographic location, skills, relevant and demonstrated experience, education, training and certifications, and other factors permitted by law. This role is eligible to earn an annual cash bonus, subject to personal and company performance goals.