QA/QC Lead - Solar

Role Type: Full-Time

Reporting To: QA/QC Manager / Project Manager

Project Sites: Juniper Solar (Chesterfield County, SC)

Role Summary

The QA/QC Lead is responsible for leading the quality assurance and quality control function on utility-scale solar construction projects. This role owns the site quality program - from inspection and test plan (ITP) execution through NCR management and final turnover documentation - and serves as the primary quality authority on site. The QA/QC Lead partners with field supervision, project leadership, and customer representatives to ensure all installation activities meet specifications, applicable codes, and contract quality requirements.

This is a field-based leadership role requiring a seasoned quality professional with direct utility-scale solar experience and the judgment to strengthen a site quality function as the work front scales.

Core Accountability

The QA/QC Lead is directly accountable for:

• Leading all quality inspection activities across the assigned solar project scope
• Developing, implementing, and maintaining the site Inspection and Test Plan (ITP)
• Managing NCR (Non-Conformance Report) lifecycle from identification through closeout
• Producing and organizing turnover documentation packages to meet contract requirements
• Serving as the site-level quality authority and primary customer interface for quality matters
• Coordinating with field supervision, subcontractors, and owner representatives on all quality hold points
• Ensuring the site quality function is structured, staffed appropriately, and operating ahead of the work front

Execution Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the site ITP, quality procedures, and inspection checklists aligned to contract requirements
• Perform and direct field inspections of DC and AC scope including module installation, string wiring, combiner boxes, MV collection systems, and civil/civil-structural work activities
• Conduct open trench inspections for underground MV cable installation, conduit runs, and civil grading
• Manage all NCR documentation including root cause, corrective action, and formal closeout with customer
• Monitor quality hold points, witness points, and mandatory inspection gates in coordination with customer QA representatives
• Coordinate and witness electrical testing activities including megger tests, continuity checks, and IV curve tracing
• Review and approve material receiving inspection records against approved submittals
• Prepare and maintain turnover packages including ITRs, test records, redlines, and as-built documentation
• Participate in project quality meetings, preconstruction meetings, and weekly quality reviews
• Mentor and support junior QA/QC Inspector(s) on daily inspection activities, documentation standards, and NCR processes
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lessons-learned processes across CEC solar quality operations
• Maintain accurate records of all inspections, deficiencies, corrective actions, and approvals
• Other duties as assigned

Leadership & Standards

• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and quality execution on site
• Communicate professionally and proactively with field teams, customers, and project leadership
• Maintain objectivity and consistency during inspections and reporting - quality decisions are not negotiable
• Escalate quality concerns and NCRs promptly with supporting documentation
• Live and promote STRIVE© values in daily interactions

Required Experience & Qualifications

• 5+ years of QA/QC experience in industrial, energy, or electrical construction environments
• Direct utility-scale solar construction experience required - DC scope, MV systems, and/or civil inspection preferred
• Demonstrated experience managing Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) on active construction sites
• Proven track record managing NCR processes from identification through formal closeout
• Experience preparing and delivering turnover packages to customer specifications
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, one-line diagrams, civil/grading plans, and technical specifications
• Strong working knowledge of electrical construction codes and standards applicable to solar (NEC, IEEE, IEC as applicable)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital quality/reporting tools
• Excellent communication, documentation, and coordination skills
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred

Professional Discipline

• Deep understanding of quality management systems and inspection methodology
• Ability to lead site quality programs with minimal oversight
• Commitment to complete, accurate, and audit-ready documentation
• Strong judgment in identifying and escalating quality risk before it becomes rework
• Collaborative approach to field supervision while maintaining quality authority

Measures of Success

• ITP execution rates and inspection hold point compliance
• NCR cycle time from identification to formal closeout
• Accuracy and completeness of turnover documentation packages
• Reduction in rework and quality deficiencies across site scope
• Customer and project team confidence in site quality function
• Compliance with contract quality requirements and delivery milestones

Working Conditions

• Full-time field assignment at an active utility-scale solar construction site
• Outdoor environment with exposure to varying weather and site conditions
• Extended hours may be required based on project schedule and work front activity

Employment Conditions

• Subject to satisfactory background check and drug/alcohol screening
• Must comply with all company safety policies and procedures

Compensation & Benefits

Base Compensation: Competitive compensation commensurate with experience, scope of responsibility, and demonstrated capability.

Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options available for employees and eligible dependents.

Retirement Benefits: Participation in the company 401(k) plan, including employer matching, subject to plan terms and eligibility.

Paid Time Off: Vacation, holidays, and paid time off policies consistent with role responsibilities and business needs.