Solar Installation Quality Assurance Engineer
Organizational Context
UNICEF in Uganda, funded by Gavi, is implementing the Health Facility Solar Electrification (HFSE) project to address critical energy needs in healthcare facilities. This initiative aims to electrify 250 facilities, strengthening service delivery, generating evidence for future scale-ups, and improving healthcare access, vaccine management, and system resilience. The project is currently in its final phase, focusing on installation, commissioning, quality assurance, and operationalization of solar systems, with over 186 systems already commissioned.
Job Purpose
The Solar Installation Quality Assurance Engineer will provide essential technical oversight for UNICEF's Health Facility Solar Electrification (HFSE) project in Uganda. This role is crucial during the installation and commissioning phase, ensuring all solar systems meet stringent technical specifications, safety standards, and quality requirements. The engineer will systematically conduct quality assurance and control, verify system functionality and performance, identify and address technical defects, and manage the timely implementation of corrective actions. This position is vital for ensuring the reliable operation of over 186 commissioned systems and the successful delivery of sustainable solar energy solutions to health facilities.
Responsibilities
The Quality Assurance Engineer will conduct field visits to assess the quality and compliance of installed solar systems against inspection checklists, collaborating with Ministry of Health engineers. Responsibilities include evaluating the functionality and operational performance of solar panels, inverters, batteries, and associated components. The engineer will also inspect the quality of civil works, such as foundations and mounting structures, and assess the safety and workmanship of electrical wiring and connections. Identification and documentation of installation defects, technical non-conformities, and safety concerns are key, using digital tools like Kobo Collect for accurate record-keeping and photographic evidence. Timely preparation and submission of inspection reports detailing deficiencies and recommended corrective actions are also required.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required in areas such as solar photovoltaic (PV) system installation, electrical engineering, technical inspection, testing, or quality assurance. Demonstrated knowledge of solar PV system functionality, electrical wiring, and mounting structures is essential. Experience in conducting field inspections, assessing installation quality, identifying defects, and preparing reports with photographic evidence is necessary. Experience with the Ministry of Health or in health facility projects, or with UN organizations, is considered an asset.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organization, professionalism, and self-management. Technical expertise in engineering and construction, particularly in solar PV systems, is required. Excellent oral and written communication, reporting skills, computer literacy (MS Office), and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment are also important.