Electrical Design Manager - Open Access

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Electrical Design Manager - Open Access

Company: Candi Solar

Location: Mohali, Punjab, India

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Renewable Energy Operations / Project Development

Date Posted: May 14, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the electrical design and technical feasibility for open access solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS).

• Drive project definition, including energy yield assessments, cost estimations, and construction timelines.

• Manage stakeholder relationships with EPC contractors and internal teams to ensure seamless project execution.

• Ensure strict adherence to state-wise Open Access policies and evolving regulatory compliance.

• Contribute to intelligence gathering on renewable energy technologies and market trends to optimize project performance and profitability.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for Candi Solar's expansion in the Indian market, focusing on the complex regulatory landscape of open access solar projects. The "Manager" title suggests a need for both technical expertise and leadership in guiding project development processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the technical definition and feasibility studies for open access solar and BESS projects, providing essential data to the business development team.

• Conduct detailed energy yield assessments using tools like PV Syst or Helioscope, and perform project cost estimations and construction timeline planning.

• Develop plant sizing strategies tailored to customer load profiles, site potential, and specific state-level open access and banking regulations, including understanding monthly/annual banking and settlement timelines.

• Perform client energy load assessments, interpret energy meter data, and occasionally install/manage data from portable energy meters/loggers.

• Prepare comprehensive electrical engineering deliverables, including layouts, single-line diagrams, and sizing of critical electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, breakers, CTs, and PTs.

• Select appropriate electrical equipment, including transformers, ACBs, VCBs, RMUs, switchgear, relay protection, and LT/HT transmission lines for solar plants.

• Conduct substation feasibility studies, assessing grid downtime, transmission line routing, and bay availability.

• Review and validate electrical designs prepared by EPC contractors for Solar PV and BESS, ensuring alignment with Candi Solar's standards and project requirements.

• Perform detailed feasibility studies integrating resource assessments, site analysis, technology selection, and economic modeling.

• Conduct site visits and structural roof assessments to verify project suitability and compliance with Candi Solar's technical requirements.

• Compile all necessary documentation for project approval and actively facilitate the technical approval process.

• Foster strong relationships with EPC contractors to negotiate project cost prices effectively and ensure competitive, efficient project delivery.

• Collaborate closely with the project management team for seamless project handover post-contract signing and to ensure efficient execution.

• Prepare and present detailed progress reports, technical documentation, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and presentations for internal stakeholders, management, and external partners.

• Analyze and incorporate state-wise Open Access policies (captive/group captive/third-party sale) and banking rules into project sizing and strategy.

• Monitor and interpret changes in Open Access frameworks and DISCOM/grid-related directives that impact technical feasibility and sizing decisions.

• Ensure full compliance with all local and national regulations throughout the project development lifecycle.

• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in renewable energy technologies, proposing innovative solutions to enhance project performance and optimize costs.

• Monitor regional and global energy markets to identify trends and opportunities impacting project development and revenue generation.

• Analyze energy pricing structures, incentive programs, and policy changes to develop strategies for maximizing project profitability.

• Identify potential technical and regulatory risks and challenges associated with project development.

• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to ensure project success and adherence to quality, safety, and environmental standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical electrical engineering expertise and project development acumen, with a strong emphasis on navigating India's specific open access solar regulations. The role requires proactive engagement with business development, EPCs, and regulatory bodies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-8 years of proven experience in the ground-mount and Commercial & Industrial (C&I) solar space, with a focus on project development.

Required Skills:

• Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with essential design and assessment software, including PV Syst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and Google Sketchup.

• Electrical Engineering Expertise: Strong understanding of electrical equipment selection (Transformers, ACBs, VCBs, RMUs, switchgear, relay protection, LT/HT transmission lines), layout engineering, and single-line diagram preparation.

• Solar Project Development: In-depth knowledge of solar technology, project financing principles, energy yield assessment methodologies, and detailed feasibility study execution.

• Regulatory Acumen: Deep understanding of state-wise Open Access policies (captive, group captive, third-party sale) and solar banking regulations in India.

• Data Analysis: Ability to conduct client energy load assessments and interpret energy meter data effectively, with proficiency in MS Excel for data manipulation and analysis.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to cultivate strong relationships with EPC contractors, project management teams, and internal stakeholders.

• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the capability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) design and integration.

• Familiarity with grid integration challenges and substation feasibility studies.

• Experience working for an international company or having lived/worked abroad.

• Knowledge of project finance structures and economic modeling for renewable energy projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skill set emphasizes a strong foundation in electrical engineering coupled with specialized knowledge in solar project development and Indian regulatory frameworks. Proficiency in specific software tools is non-negotiable.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed case studies of past open access solar or C&I projects, highlighting your specific contributions to the electrical design and feasibility stages.

• Technical Deliverables: Include examples of electrical layouts, single-line diagrams, equipment sizing calculations, and energy yield assessments you have produced.

• Regulatory Analysis: Provide examples of how you have analyzed and incorporated state-wise open access policies and banking regulations into project designs.

• Problem-Solving Examples: Demonstrate instances where you identified and mitigated technical or regulatory risks, showcasing your problem-solving capabilities.

• Software Proficiency Evidence: Briefly mention or demonstrate your proficiency in PV Syst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and MS Excel through project examples.

Process Documentation:

• Feasibility Study Templates: Evidence of creating or utilizing structured templates for project feasibility studies, ensuring all critical technical and regulatory aspects are covered.

• Design Review Checklists: Examples of checklists or processes used for reviewing EPC contractor designs to ensure compliance and optimization.

• SOP Development: Documentation illustrating your ability to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for design and feasibility processes.

• Reporting Frameworks: Examples of reporting structures or templates used for progress updates and technical documentation for stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Applicants should prepare a portfolio that not only lists technical skills but visually and narratively demonstrates their application in real-world solar project development, with a particular focus on the complexities of open access in India.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contribution towards a provident fund or other retirement schemes as per Indian labor laws.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Travel Allowance: Reimbursement for country-wide travel expenses, including accommodation and per diem, as the role involves frequent travel.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and conferences related to renewable energy technologies and regulatory updates.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success and company profitability.

• Employee Stock Options: Possible eligibility for employee stock options or equity in a growing scale-up.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected due to project timelines and client needs. Standard working days are Monday to Friday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from research on compensation for similar roles in the Indian renewable energy market, considering the specified experience level and the technical/regulatory demands of the position. The benefits package is typical for a full-time role in a growing international company.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Renewable Energy (Solar Power and Battery Energy Storage Systems - BESS)

Company Size: The description implies a scale-up environment, likely with 50-200 employees based on typical growth trajectories for companies in this sector, operating internationally with a significant presence in Asia and Africa.

Founded: Candi Solar was founded to address energy access and carbon emission reduction in emerging markets, combining Swiss capital with local expertise. This indicates a mission-driven organization focused on social impact alongside commercial growth.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a project development team focused on open access projects in India.

• It will likely involve close collaboration with the Business Development team, Project Management, and potentially Finance and Legal departments.

• Reporting structure is not explicitly defined but likely to a Head of Project Development or a senior executive overseeing operations in India.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Emphasis on energy yield assessments, load profile analysis, and economic modeling to inform project viability.

• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement in project definition, design review, and stakeholder negotiation to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Encouraging new ways of thinking and proposing innovative solutions to leverage advancements in renewable energy technologies and adapt to evolving market conditions.

• Client-Centricity: Designing solutions tailored to customer needs and site potential, while managing risks for partners.

Company Website: www.candi.solar

📝 Enhancement Note: Candi Solar positions itself as a mission-oriented company with a blend of international financial backing and local operational expertise. The culture appears to value proactivity, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach, especially within the context of a rapidly growing scale-up.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as Mid-Senior Level, specifically an "Electrical Design Manager." It signifies a position requiring substantial technical expertise (5-8 years minimum) and the ability to manage key aspects of project development, including technical definition, feasibility, and stakeholder interactions. The "Manager" title implies a degree of responsibility for guiding processes and potentially junior team members.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a senior leader within the Indian operations, such as a Head of Project Development or Country Manager. Close collaboration with the Business Development team is expected, indicating a matrixed reporting or strong cross-functional partnership.

Operations Impact: The Electrical Design Manager's work directly influences the viability, cost-effectiveness, and technical success of Candi Solar's open access projects. Accurate energy yield assessments, optimized plant sizing, and sound electrical design are critical for ensuring predictable energy generation, meeting customer load requirements, and maximizing the financial returns for both Candi Solar and its clients. Their adherence to regulations also mitigates project risks and ensures smooth execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced BESS integration, grid-tied system design, or specific renewable energy technologies.

• Project Management Leadership: Transition into a full Project Manager role, overseeing all aspects of project execution from development to commissioning.

• Strategic Development: Move into roles focused on broader market strategy, policy analysis, or business development within the renewable energy sector.

• Team Leadership: Grow into a senior management position, leading larger design teams, managing multiple projects simultaneously, or overseeing electrical engineering for an entire region.

• International Exposure: Leverage experience in India to contribute to Candi Solar's expansion in other emerging markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within the renewable energy sector, moving from specialized technical design to broader project leadership and strategic development, especially within a growing international company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job description indicates a hybrid work arrangement with frequent country-wide travel. This suggests a primary office base in one of the listed cities (Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Chennai) with the expectation of spending significant time on-site at project locations or client facilities.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Mohali, Punjab, India, but the job description also lists primary work locations as Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Chennai. This suggests Candi Solar has multiple operational hubs in India, and the candidate might be based in Mohali but expected to travel frequently to these other locations or client sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on "working as one" and being a "dynamic, cross-functional team player" points to a highly collaborative workspace where open communication and shared problem-solving are encouraged.

• Tools & Technology: Access to essential design software (PV Syst, Helioscope, AutoCAD) and analytical tools (MS Excel) will be standard. The company likely provides necessary hardware and software licenses.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with business development, project management, and EPC partners is expected, fostering a dynamic and interactive work environment. The multicultural aspect suggests diverse team interactions.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, five days per week.

• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or client demands, necessitating adaptability. The hybrid nature allows for a balance between office-based work and remote flexibility, balanced by necessary travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature combined with significant travel suggests Candi Solar values flexibility while recognizing the on-site requirements critical for project development in the solar industry. Candidates should be comfortable with a mix of office work, remote tasks, and extensive travel.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter, focusing on experience in renewable energy project development, electrical design, and familiarity with Indian open access regulations.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions covering your expertise in electrical engineering fundamentals, solar PV and BESS design, energy yield assessment methodologies, and proficiency with tools like PV Syst and AutoCAD. Expect scenario-based questions related to project feasibility and technical challenges.

• Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a detailed case study from your portfolio showcasing a complex open access solar project. This will involve explaining your role, the technical challenges, the solutions implemented, and the project outcomes, with a focus on your electrical design contributions and regulatory considerations.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions designed to assess your alignment with Candi Solar's values (empathy, authenticity, teamwork, "less is more"), your ability to work in a dynamic scale-up environment, and your stakeholder management skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, long-term vision, and final confirmation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Open Access Expertise: Clearly demonstrate your understanding and application of Indian state-wise Open Access policies and banking regulations within your case studies.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to showcase the impact of your work – e.g., accuracy of energy yield predictions, cost savings achieved through optimized design, reduction in project timelines, successful navigation of regulatory hurdles.

• Showcase Technical Rigor: Present clear, well-organized technical deliverables (layouts, diagrams, calculations) that reflect a high standard of electrical engineering practice.

• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio presentations to narrate the project lifecycle, emphasizing the challenges you faced, your thought process, and the successful outcomes achieved.

• Tool Proficiency Evidence: Briefly explain how you utilized specific software (PV Syst, Helioscope, AutoCAD) to achieve project objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a system under specific constraints (e.g., limited space, complex load profile, specific grid connection point) or troubleshoot a design issue.

• Regulatory Scenario: Practice explaining how you would approach a project in a region with newly introduced or changing open access regulations.

• Stakeholder Negotiation: Prepare to discuss how you would handle disagreements with an EPC contractor regarding technical specifications or project costs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should anticipate a rigorous interview process that tests both technical depth and practical application, with a strong emphasis on portfolio demonstration and understanding of the Indian renewable energy market's regulatory intricacies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• PV Syst: Essential for detailed solar PV system design, energy yield simulation, and performance analysis. Expect questions on its application in optimizing system design and predicting energy output.

• Helioscope: A powerful tool for solar design automation, 3D modeling, and performance simulation, particularly useful for complex site layouts and shading analysis.

• AutoCAD: Standard for creating detailed electrical layouts, single-line diagrams, and other engineering drawings. Proficiency in producing professional, clear schematics is key.

• Google Sketchup: May be used for preliminary site modeling and visualization of project layouts, especially for rooftop installations.

• MS Excel: Crucial for data analysis, financial modeling, cost estimation, load profile interpretation, and report generation. Advanced functions and data manipulation skills are expected.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Energy Meter Data Analysis Tools: While not specified, expect to work with raw data from energy meters, requiring analytical skills to interpret consumption patterns and integrate them into system design.

• Reporting Software: Tools for creating professional progress reports and presentations, potentially including Microsoft PowerPoint or similar.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Likely used for tracking project progress, task management, and collaboration (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or internal systems).

• Document Management Systems: For organizing and sharing project documentation, blueprints, and reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in PV Syst, Helioscope, AutoCAD, and advanced MS Excel is fundamental. The company likely utilizes project management and document management systems common in the industry for efficient workflow and collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Empathy Before Ego: Encourages understanding and consideration for colleagues, clients, and partners, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. This means prioritizing collective success over individual accolades.

• Authentic No Matter What: Promotes honesty, transparency, and integrity in all dealings, building trust within the team and with external stakeholders.

• Work as One: Emphasizes teamwork, shared responsibility, and collective problem-solving. Success is viewed as a team achievement, requiring cross-functional collaboration.

• Less is More: Advocates for efficient processes, streamlined solutions, and focus on essential elements. This can translate to optimizing designs, simplifying workflows, and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly integrated approach where Electrical Design works closely with Business Development, Project Management, and potentially Finance and Legal teams from project inception through execution.

• Proactive Communication: A culture that values open dialogue, regular updates, and constructive feedback exchange to ensure alignment and address challenges promptly.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement to share best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned, particularly regarding the nuances of open access regulations and innovative design solutions. The international aspect suggests a diverse range of perspectives to be shared.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candi Solar's stated values are central to their operational philosophy. Candidates who can demonstrate these values through their past experiences, particularly in collaborative problem-solving and efficient execution, will be highly regarded.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Evolving Regulations: The Indian open access landscape is dynamic. Staying ahead of policy changes, DISCOM directives, and banking regulations will be a continuous challenge requiring proactive monitoring and adaptation of designs.

• Balancing Technical Rigor with Cost Efficiency: Delivering optimized electrical designs that meet all technical requirements while remaining cost-competitive to secure project profitability.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively negotiating with EPC contractors, collaborating with internal teams across different functions, and communicating technical details to non-technical stakeholders.

• Geographical Dispersion & Travel: Frequent country-wide travel can be demanding, requiring strong time management and adaptability to different working environments.

• Rapid Scale-Up Environment: Working within a fast-paced scale-up means adapting to changing priorities, evolving processes, and the need for quick decision-making.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BESS Integration: Deepen expertise in integrating battery storage systems with solar PV, understanding grid stabilization, and advanced control strategies.

• Emerging Technologies: Gain exposure to new renewable energy technologies, smart grid solutions, and advanced PV material science.

• Policy & Regulatory Expertise: Develop a comprehensive understanding of energy policies across various Indian states and potentially other emerging markets.

• Project Management Skills: Enhance skills in project planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication through hands-on experience.

• Cross-Cultural Team Leadership: Develop leadership capabilities within a multicultural, international team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex regulatory challenges and staying at the forefront of renewable energy technology and project development practices in a high-growth market.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex open access solar project you were involved in. What were the key electrical design challenges, and how did you address them, particularly concerning state-specific regulations and banking rules?"

• "How do you approach energy yield assessment for a large industrial client with a variable load profile? What software do you primarily use, and what factors do you consider most critical for accuracy?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does your approach to project development align with Candi Solar's values of 'Empathy Before Ego' and 'Work as One'?"

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your technical recommendations to meet business objectives or cost constraints. How did you manage that balance?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the business and technical outcomes of your projects. Quantify savings, efficiency gains, or successful regulatory navigation.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each case study, outline the project objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced (technical, regulatory, stakeholder), your proposed solutions, and the final results.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: When discussing a project, briefly explain how specific software like PV Syst or AutoCAD was instrumental in achieving the design or analysis.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, risk mitigation strategies, and technical assumptions. Be ready to defend your decisions with sound engineering principles and market knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase not only their technical prowess but also their strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Candi Solar's unique values, all demonstrated through concrete examples from their portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Candi Solar careers portal at https://candisolar.bamboohr.com/careers.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in renewable energy project development, specifically ground-mount and C&I solar, and emphasize your expertise in electrical design, energy yield assessment, and familiarity with Indian open access policies and banking regulations. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a professional portfolio showcasing 2-3 key projects. Focus on highlighting your contributions to electrical design, feasibility studies, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder management. Include examples of technical deliverables and quantifiable results.

• Research Candi Solar: Understand their mission, values, market focus (Asia/Africa), and approach to solar financing. Prepare to discuss how your skills and experience align with their goals and culture.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your case studies from your portfolio, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your problem-solving skills and technical acumen. Be ready to answer in-depth technical and behavioral questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.