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First Solar Electric is a leader in the development of large scale solar energy systems and will focus on developing solutions for utilities in the United States. First Solar Electric is a subsidiary of First Solar, Inc. the largest thin film solar module manufacturer in the world and the largest solar manufacturer in the United States. Our high growth and position in the renewable energy industry offers outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting work environment in one of the most important industries for the 21st century. Our culture is one where teamwork, continuous improvement, achievement of results, and environmental responsibility are core values. We are seeking new associates that are motivated to contribute their talents to making cost effective solar energy an important part of the world's energy mix.

The Director of Engineering will oversee and manage the System Engineering Group's geotechnical, mechanical, and AC/DC electrical photovoltaic power plant design team.Candidate will be responsible for managing a growing team of sr. engineers, designers and drafters, in support of project development and construction.

Experience:

* 20 years of engineering/management experience, with associated expertise in electrical, power/substation/utility interconnect and related disciplines.
* Must have extensive field experience in design and construction of power plants for the North American electric utility market.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

* Development and enforcement of engineering standards, operations practices and business activities, required to plan, synthesize, schedule, budget, delegate, QC, coordinate, communicate and otherwise process projects from concept through construction administration, at minimum risk, within budget and schedule criteria.
* Estimates resources needed, duration and cost of efforts for all development and project support functions. Reduces project design schedules, expedites critical paths and preemptively removes issues that delay project execution.
* Defines engineering requirements, ensuring that existing and new designs meet standards for product functionality, performance, cost and quality. Exhibits advanced ability to apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, criteria, and good judgment in performing geotechnical, mechanical, and electrical design.
* Works closely with Project Development, Program Development, Project/Construction, and Strategic Sourcing groups to ensure the timely and accurate information, specifications and designs support the Corporate mission.
* Support detailed PV power plant proposals, sales and other contract related tasks.
* Specific services regularly performed by the System Engineering team include, but are not limited to engineering feasibility studies, field surveys, preparation and coordination of project design estimates, engineering/designs (plans and specifications), meeting attendance, report writing, value engineering initiatives, code compliance, deliverable management and other related tasks.
Assignments range from large ground-mounted photovoltaic power plants to roof-based distributed generation installations.
* Continuous drive for innovation to decrease capital and life-cycle costs through inclusion of material costs and field labor will be a critical, ongoing responsibility. Projects will be located throughout North America.
* Plans, assigns, and manages schedule for all development support and design work.�Guides employee improvement, and disciplines employees, recommending development procedures, methods and policies as needed.

Education:

• BS Degree in Engineering
• Must have a Professional Engineering registration (PE) in multiple jurisdictions.

Required Skills:

*Knowledge of electrical, structural, geo-technical, seismic and utility building codes and practices and general construction processing are required. *Knowledge of AutoCAD a must. *MS Office/Project literacy, verbal and written communication skills are critical

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