Senior Project Engineer

Pacifico Energy Group (PEG) is a privately held investment company that seeds and sponsors real asset-based companies. With controlling interests in renewable energy development platforms, vertically integrated independent power producers, and aviation companies around the globe, PEG plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of these sectors. PEG has a proven track record of seeding and scaling development platforms, including Pacifico Energy Japan—the largest solar developer in Japan.

In 2020, recognizing the challenges facing US utility-scale projects, PEG founded and seeded Pacifico Power to target the behind-the-meter (BTM) and distributed generation (DG) markets. Pacifico Power is a U.S. focused energy infrastructure platform that delivers customized industrial scale energy solutions to companies and communities.

Pacifico Power is seeking a Senior Project Engineer to lead the design, engineering, and implementation of distributed generation and storage projects. The Senior Project Engineer will play a critical role in conceptualizing and developing project designs, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring the successful execution of renewable energy projects. The Senior Project Engineer will also support informing management on technical aspects for commercial decisions and take a lead role in the design, engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning phases of projects including coordinating with AHJs, LPCs and customers.

This position is based out of San Juan Capistrano, CA and the ideal candidate will be within commutable distance to this location. This position may be required to travel up to 15% of the time.

What you get to do:

• Design and Engineering: Develop conceptual and detailed designs of renewable generation and storage systems, including site layouts, electrical schematics, and equipment specifications, utilizing AutoCAD and other design software.

• Optimize system designs through equipment understanding, modeling software, development tools and other processes.

• Prepare RFQs for system components and review and evaluate quotes and invoices from suppliers and contractors.

• Project Coordination: Interface with procurement managers, customers, utility companies, AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction), and other stakeholders to streamline project information, obtain necessary approvals, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Technical Expertise: Serve as a technical subject matter expert, providing insights on project feasibility, performance analysis, design optimization, and adherence to industry best practices and regulations.

• Site Assessment: Conduct on-site assessments, gather site-specific data, and analyze network tools to inform project design and implementation strategies.

• Energy Yield Analysis: Draft, review, and approve energy yield calculations using simulation tools such as PVSYST and NREL System Advisor Model (SAM) to optimize system designs and maximize energy output.

• Interconnection and Permitting: Prepare interconnection applications, designs for permitting, and coordinate activities with utilities, permit agencies, contractors, and engineering firms.

• Project Management: Manage project schedules, and coordinate project activities ensuring the successful execution of projects within budget and timeline constraints.

• Innovation and Optimization: Stay abreast of emerging technologies, industry trends, and regulatory developments, and apply advanced analytical and optimization tools to enhance project performance and efficiency.

• Provide mentorship and training to junior engineering personnel

• All other assignments and special projects, as requested by Management.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related energy field.

• 5-10 years of experience in the power generation industry, with a focus on solar energy preferred.

• Advanced knowledge of project management principles: such as project scheduling, progress monitoring, cost evaluation…etc. A PMP certificate is a plus.

• Strong understanding of electrical design, solar industry best practices, BESS sizing and optimization. substation concepts, transmission line design, grounding system design, and project scheduling.

• Ability to handle various technologies including solar modules, inverters, tracking systems, and battery storage.

• Demonstrated experience in design and development of renewable power plants, including permitting and interconnection processes.

• Familiarity with AutoCAD, PV simulation software (e.g., PVSYST, SAM), GIS software, and MS Office suite.

• Advanced technical writing, and communication skills.