Electrical Testing and Commissioning Lead

  • Listed 06/11/24
  • Energy
  • Permanent / Full Time
  • NSW Other
Position Overview:
The Testing and Commissioning Lead will oversee and manage the testing and commissioning process of solar farms and associated high and medium-voltage systems, ensuring the integration of these systems into the New South Wales (NSW) electricity generation network. The role requires significant expertise in solar power systems, high and medium voltage (HV/MV) electrical systems, substations, and working within the regulatory frameworks governing NSW's energy network, specifically in collaboration with electricity network operators.
This position demands a solid technical background, exceptional leadership skills, and an ability to work closely with cross-functional teams to meet strict commissioning timelines, ensure system reliability, and comply with safety standards. The successful candidate will ensure all electrical systems are tested and commissioned to meet performance specifications and are fully operational and safe for integration into the grid.
Key Responsibilities:
  1. Testing & Commissioning Oversight:
    • Lead the testing and commissioning of solar farm systems, including HV/MV substations, inverters, protection systems, and associated electrical equipment.
    • Develop detailed commissioning plans and schedules for solar farm projects, ensuring the timely delivery of all activities.
    • Supervise the installation and testing of all electrical systems and equipment, ensuring compliance with relevant industry standards, manufacturer specifications, and safety regulations.
    • Oversee and conduct FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and SAT (Site Acceptance Testing) for equipment.
    • Coordinate testing and commissioning activities for grid connection, ensuring seamless integration with the NSW electricity network.
  2. Coordination with Grid Operators:
    • Collaborate with NSW grid operators to ensure all grid connection requirements are met and testing protocols comply with their operational standards and procedures.
    • Liaise with grid operators to schedule outage windows for commissioning and perform joint testing activities as required.
  3. Quality Assurance & Safety:
    • Implement and monitor quality assurance procedures to ensure all commissioning activities meet the highest standards.
    • Lead risk assessments and hazard analysis to maintain a safe working environment throughout the testing and commissioning phase.
    • Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations (OH&S) during commissioning work, including the use of protective gear and safe work practices.
  4. System Performance Verification:
    • Conduct functional tests, performance tests, and fault-finding procedures on all electrical systems (including transformers, switchgear, protection relays, SCADA systems, and inverters).
    • Verify that all systems meet performance specifications and operational readiness before final handover to operations.
    • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to system integration and performance during commissioning.
  5. Documentation & Reporting:
    • Ensure that all commissioning data, test results, and reports are thoroughly documented and submitted according to project requirements.
    • Create and review test protocols, commissioning checklists, and test reports.
    • Maintain a log of commissioning activities, documenting any issues or non-conformance for future reference and continuous improvement.
  6. Team Leadership & Training:
    • Lead a team of engineers and technicians in the commissioning process, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and ensuring high standards of quality and performance.
    • Provide training to junior team members on commissioning procedures and safety protocols.
    • Interface with project managers, engineers, and contractors to address issues and provide technical support.
  7. Project Handover:
    • Support the smooth handover of commissioned systems to the operations and maintenance teams.
    • Provide post-commissioning support and troubleshooting during the warranty period and for ongoing system performance monitoring.
Qualifications & Experience:
  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or Electrical trade licence
    • Relevant industry certifications (e.g., electrical testing, high voltage training).
  • Experience:
    • Minimum of 7 years of experience in the testing, commissioning, and operations of renewable energy projects, with a strong focus on solar farms.
    • Hands-on experience in commissioning HV and MV substations, transformers, switchgear, and other high-voltage electrical systems.
    • Proven experience working in the New South Wales electricity generation and distribution network, with an in-depth understanding of network operators
    • Experience in grid connection, integration, and compliance with local network operator requirements.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Expertise in high and medium voltage testing procedures (e.g., relay testing, insulation resistance, continuity testing, protection system testing).
    • Familiarity with solar farm electrical systems, including inverters, transformers, and SCADA systems.
    • Strong understanding of Australian Electrical Standards (AS/NZS 3000, AS/NZS 3008, etc.) and grid connection standards.
  • Software/Tools:
    • Proficient in the use of commissioning and testing tools (e.g., Omicron, Megger, Doble, etc.).
    • Familiar with SCADA, communication protocols, and control systems.
    • Experience with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
  • Leadership & Communication:
    • Strong leadership abilities to manage teams and oversee the work of multiple stakeholders.
    • Excellent communication skills to coordinate with project teams, contractors, and grid operators.
    • Problem-solving and analytical thinking to troubleshoot complex electrical systems and commissioning issues.  
Benefits:
  • Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
  • Opportunities for career growth in the renewable energy sector.
Interested candidates should submit their resumes outlining relevant experience to apply@concentis.com.au

We encourage applications from all communities; people of all ages, nationalities, abilities and cultures, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the LGBTQI+ community and people living with disability.
If you require adjustments as part of the recruitment process to accommodate your needs, please don’t hesitate to discuss these with us.
Supporting a Diverse Workforce

We welcome and support all applicants, from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, the LGBTI+ community, mature workers, people with disabilities and impairments, and people from different cultural and religious

Concentis and the partners we work with, are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to ensuring a working environment where everyone feels included and is treated fairly with respect and equal consideration.