PV / BESS HMI Operator / Attendant at Amentum in Lamu, Kenya

    Amentum logo

    PV / BESS HMI Operator / Attendant

    AmentumLamu, Kenya

    Posted

    2 days ago

    Apply by

    4 Sept

    Full Time
    On Site
    Mid
    Engineering & Technical Services
    Engineering & Technology

    Build your CV in minutes! Tailored for the Kenyan job market.

    Build My CV

    Job Description

    This role involves operating and monitoring utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) controls to ensure efficient power production and grid stability. The operator will use HMI systems to collect data, coordinate output, and respond to dynamic grid conditions, while adhering to strict safety protocols. The position requires working on-site in Lamu, Kenya, and may involve international travel.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Operate the PV plant controls and monitoring system to efficiently produce electrical power.
    • Utilize the PV Human Machine Interface (HMI) to collect operating data and maintain optimal plant performance.
    • Coordinate PV plant output to ensure compliance with voltage tolerances.
    • Ensure the PV system disengages from the grid and maintains system voltage within specified tolerances during dynamic or transient conditions.
    • Operate the BESS controls and monitoring system to regulate electrical power output and battery charging retention.
    • Utilize the BESS HMI to collect operating data and maintain efficient electricity storage operations.
    • Coordinate BESS plant output to maintain voltage tolerances and support grid stability.
    • Ensure the BESS disengages from the grid and maintains system voltage within specified tolerances during dynamic or transient conditions.
    • Optimize BESS output and input to reduce thermal generation ramping and ensure PV smoothing functions.
    • Perform "watchstanding" or attendance duties to oversee the safe and efficient operation of the PV and BESS systems.
    • Provide operational oversight to ensure reliable electric power production that meets the system's demands.
    • Monitor plant controls and make adjustments to maintain continuous and efficient electrical power distribution.
    • Work closely with technical teams to ensure both systems operate optimally under varying conditions and provide operational feedback for system improvements.
    • Comply with all occupational safety and health standards, rules, and orders applicable to their actions and conduct.
    • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) consistently and properly, proactively report workplace hazards, and adhere to safety protocols to maintain a zero-injury environment.
    • Perform other job-related duties as assigned that are consistent with the nature and level of the position.

    Required Qualifications

    • A high school diploma or equivalent.
    • Certification as a solar and BESS operator, with the preferred certification being the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Board Certification for PV or an equivalent certification. Certification copies must be provided as per contract requirements.
    • 1-3 years of experience operating and maintaining utility-scale PV and BESS platforms or comparable systems.
    • Proficient in using Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems for monitoring and managing PV and BESS operations.
    • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in a timely manner.
    • Previous work experience in an austere OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) environment with a multi-national workforce.
    • Excellent organizational, time management, and customer service skills.
    • Must be able to speak, read, and comprehend English to the extent that they can perform the contract requirements and comply with installation emergency procedures.
    • Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials/authorization.
    • Must be in possession of a valid Passport and be able to travel internationally. Passport should be valid for a minimum of 1 plus years at the time of hiring.
    • Ability to obtain country-specific visas per the U.S. Department of State Foreign Clearance Guide.
    • Ability to successfully pass contract medical requirements and maintain requirements for duration of deployment.
    • Comprehensive knowledge of utility-scale solar power generation systems and battery energy storage platforms.
    • Familiarity with operating systems and technologies used in PV and BESS control and monitoring systems.
    • Experience in maintaining voltage support, frequency regulation, and PV smoothing functions using utility-scale systems.
    • Previous experience operating in a remote environment with dynamic power grid conditions.
    • Familiarity with U.S. Navy or Department of Defense power generation systems is an advantage.

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Engineering & Technology

    Minimum Experience

    1 years

    Education Level

    Diploma

    Languages

    English

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Visit the application link provided on this page to submit your application.

    Master the HMI Screens Before You Walk In

    This role lives and breathes the Human Machine Interface. Hiring managers will probe how quickly you can read live data, spot anomalies, and act under grid stress. Show them you already think in voltage tolerances and PV smoothing curves.

    1. Prove your HMI fluency: On your CV, list the specific SCADA or HMI platforms you've used (e.g., Siemens, ABB, or custom systems). Mention any dashboards you've built or configured. If you have a certificate, put it right at the top.

    2. Quantify your plant experience: Instead of saying 'operated a solar plant', say 'monitored and controlled a 50 MW PV plant with 20 MWh BESS'. Numbers make your experience concrete and show you understand scale.

    3. Speak the language of grid stability: Be ready to explain how you've handled frequency regulation, voltage support, or ramp rate control. Use the exact terms from the job description—'PV smoothing', 'thermal generation ramping'—to show you're not just guessing.

    4. Highlight your safety record: This posting stresses zero-injury and PPE compliance. Share a specific example of a hazard you reported or a safety improvement you suggested. That shows you take safety as seriously as they do.

    5. Prepare for OCONUS realities: If you've worked in remote or austere environments, talk about how you adapted to limited resources and diverse teams. If not, show you understand the challenges and are ready for them.

    6. Get your paperwork in order: They'll ask for certifications, passport validity, and medical clearance. Have copies ready and double-check your passport has at least 1+ years left. This is a common stumbling block.

    7. Show you can troubleshoot under pressure: Expect scenario questions like 'What do you do if the BESS disconnects during a storm?' Walk through your logical steps: check alarms, assess risk, coordinate with the grid operator, and document everything.

    8. Emphasize teamwork and communication: You'll work with technical teams and possibly military or defense personnel. Give an example of a time you explained a technical issue to a non-technical stakeholder clearly and calmly.

    CareerSasa Safety Alert: Never pay employers or agencies for interviews, training, or job placement. Does a job request payment? Report it immediately using the "Flag" button. While CareerSasa vets job postings thoroughly, always verify opportunities independently.
    Share this job:

    Boost Your Application Success

    1. 1

      Expert CV help that gets you noticed. Build Your CV

    2. 2

      A personalized cover letter for this role. Write Cover Letter

    3. 3

      Attract recruiters with a stronger profile. Boost LinkedIn

    Tags

    PV
    BESS
    HMI
    solar
    battery storage