Job Description

Job Description: Junior Test Engineer [Modules]

PV Evolution Labs (PVEL) is seeking a full-time Junior Test Engineer to join our Engineering department. This position is an on-site role based in our Napa, CA laboratory. It may require occasional travel to our outdoor test facility in Davis, CA.
The Junior Test Engineer role will be focused on reliability testing of solar modules.

About PVEL: We create data that drives the global clean energy transition. Our team pioneered extended reliability and performance product testing that unlocks investments in solar power. We are passionate about our work because it makes an impact – and we have fun doing it. As the leading reliability and performance testing lab for solar project developers and investors, we develop independent reports on PV and energy storage equipment. Over the past decade, we’ve built a global network that connects manufacturers to 400+ downstream partners who use our reports to guide 30+ gigawatts of purchasing decisions each year. But that’s just the beginning. PVEL is on a mission for rapid growth because our work accelerates adoption of solar power worldwide.

General Responsibilities & Tasks May Include

• Conduct module testing for the PVEL Product Qualification Program (PQP).
• Review contracts and ensure availability of necessary equipment, tools, and components for project execution.
• Assist Operations Team with various customer projects and provide ad hoc site support.
• Review and approve test programs, validate setups, and ensure proper equipment calibration and maintenance.
• Verify accurate data collection and storage in designated locations.
• Collaborate with the Quality Team to enhance systems, resolve quality issues, and improve documentation.
• Contribute to engineering development efforts including design, implementation, and validation.
• Draft Work Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures, and provide software support in Python.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs, including subcontractor support when needed.
• Organize and coordinate preventative maintenance events with subcontractors.
• May be asked to train technical staff based on Work Instructions and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or related field.
• Strong desire to specialize in PV module testing.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Statistical Analysis software.
• Comfortable with data processing, desk work, and hands-on lab activities.
• Basic knowledge of electrical systems, including concepts like Ohm’s law, 4-point probe, and wire sizing.
• Basic understanding of optical measurements and systems, such as the electromagnetic spectrum.
• Familiarity with statistical principles for uncertainty calculations.
• High attention to detail in all tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Solar module reliability testing and/or certification experience.
• Experience running environmental chambers or similar.
• Experience characterizing solar modules and system performance.
• Experience with solar module reliability failure mode
• Experience running environmental chambers.
• Experience with Python, LabVIEW, PV system modeling, instrument communication.
• Open to learning, creating, and expanding the capabilities of the lab & field site.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to work in the U.S.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen as needed.
• Normal office and lab environments
  • Lifting of up to 25 lbs., regular walking, sitting, bending, twisting, standing, and reaching
• Valid driver license required.
• • Acceptable Motor Vehicle Record meeting Company Insurance Requirements
  • Ability to rent a vehicle
• Travel to other company lab sites and occasional training and/or conferences
• Occasional work outdoors

How to Apply

Feel free to connect and apply via LinkedIn OR e-mail resumes to [email protected].

Job Categories: Solar. Job Types: Full-Time. Job Tags: #PVTesting and #SolarTesting. Salaries: 60,000 - 80,000.

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