Solar Technician Apprentice

Location: US, Smith Field, VA

Are you ready to be part of a company that's not just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company with a team of 8,300 employees across 12 countries.

AES has been ranked #1 by BloombergNEF in renewable energy sales to corporations in the US and Americas for five consecutive years, providing electricity for millions of people worldwide.

We are proud to foster a strong workplace culture, earning prominent positions in Great Place to Work™ rankings across the markets where we operate. AES was also named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year in 2026, highlighting our dedication to integrity, transparency, and responsible business practices.

Our spirit of innovation continues to earn industry recognition. AES is the only seven-time winner of the Edison Electric Institute’s Edison Awards in the twenty-first century, a distinction honoring global leadership in advancing the electric power industry.

If you're ready to be part of a company that's not just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you. We're not just building a more sustainable future, we're powering it. Apply now and energize your career with a true leader in global energy.

AES CE is an established and rapidly growing renewable energy company with regional headquarters in Salt Lake City, UT.  This position will cover assigned O&M activities associated with the solar PV sites and substations associated with the utility-scale Solar Energy Plants in Surry, VA. The AES Operations team is looking for a Solar Apprentice with an understanding of performing Preventative & Corrective maintenance. This individual would play a pivotal and integral role in ensuring that AES CE operates the portfolio to standards that exceed the industry’s best practices. The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and can take direction from Field Service leads/team members. As AES CE grows to become one of the leading IPPs in the industry, this role will provide an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for assigned O&M activities associated with the solar PV sites and substations associated with the utility-scale Solar Energy Plants in Surry, VA.

Performs/assists with corrective, preventive, and emergency maintenance and operations for which they are qualified to safely and efficiently perform for equipment, including but not limited to installed Inverters (TMIEC, Prolec), Trackers (ATI), Combiner Boxes, PV Modules, DC Collection equipment and systems, AC Collection and Distribution equipment and systems,

Performs/assists with routine maintenance work (electrical troubleshooting and repair, instrumentation calibration and troubleshooting, basic Inverter troubleshooting) up to their capabilities, as assigned and directed by the supervisor and work orders from our maintenance planners.

Assist/learn how to Prepare and implement switching and clearance orders.

Operates electrical and mechanical power plant systems.

Participate in comprehensive and ongoing training as required, demonstrating AES CE's commitment to your professional development.

Performs/assists with technical and administrative duties associated with operating and maintaining a power plant.

May assist with site vegetation management plans, including running tractors, riding mowers, and other vegetation maintenance equipment as needed.

Writes/assists with Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions, and other documents assigned.

Ensures work follows Environmental and Safety requirements and is appropriately documented.

May perform work independently and in work crews, depending upon skills, experience, and job in hand.

Employee must be able to pass background check and possess a TWIC card within 60 days of employment

Desired Skills, Expertise, and Competencies

Understands and promotes general workplace safety and the ability to follow safety standards and help the company improve upon the standards in place.

Experience with electrical systems and familiarity with basic safety principles including LOTO and Electrical Safety.

Must have experience operating personal computers with technical proficiency in standard business software.

Ability to excel in a collaborative, cross-functional, and geographically diverse organization.

Integrity and excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing, with leaders and colleagues.

Promotes the site team; is an assertive teammate willing to assist others when appropriate.

High-energy, developed interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic.

Meticulous, able to synthesize complex analysis, approach new challenges creatively, and summarize information to support critical decision-makers.

Excellent hands-on abilities with strong technical skills.

Ability to read, write, and understand English.

Knowledge of applicable safety and environmental regulations

Demonstrates proactive enthusiasm for solving problems and adding value to the company.

Maintains a current level of professional knowledge.

Focuses on personal growth and development by actively seeking feedback and responding with action.

Ability to establish a positive and professional working relationship with all individuals

Communicates openly and honestly and does not engage in gossip.

Model’s professional behaviors of conduct and etiquette.

Education / Experience

Possess a high school diploma or GED.

(Preferred) Possess a Technical degree or Solar certification

Experience in solar system installation as an asset.

Basic knowledge of electrical or mechanical fundamentals

Working Conditions

Working outside in a standard solar power plant and office environment, including high/low ambient temperatures and high/low humidity areas, and possibly working at heights.

Requires standing, sitting, walking, kneeling, twisting, climbing stair