Director, Performance Optimization and Data Analysis

Within Pine Gate Renewables, the Operating Assets team is accountable for delivering the optimal results from each asset currently operating. The 99 operating assets have 3 GW capacity and are across 32 states.   This team is critical to ensuring profitable, sustainable assets for the company. The team includes asset management, operations, performance engineering, partnership and lender management, and operational compliance.

We are seeking a Director of Performance Optimization, Analytics, and Data Science specializing in solar generation and energy storage facilities to join our innovative renewable energy team.   In this role you will lead a team of data scientists and analysis team members as well as performance engineers.  Performance engineers will seek to add value by recommending technological enhancements that optimize performance of operational assets - as well as providing performance models during both pre-COD and post-COD periods.  Your expertise in solar and battery storage, as well as in data science and performance engineering will be essential in ensuring the optimal performance and reliability of our renewable generation facilities. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including project managers, design engineers, operations, and asset management team members, you will contribute to the success of our solar and storage projects. The ideal candidate is passionate about renewable energy and brings a strong background in PVsyst models, performance engineering, and data analytics.

What You’ll Do

The Director of Performance Optimization, Analytics, and Data Science will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and optimal performance of our solar and storage assets while leveraging data-driven insights. This position requires a deep understanding of renewable energy systems, data analysis, and advanced data science techniques. As the Director, you will lead a team of performance engineers, analysts, and data scientists, working closely with asset managers, operations and maintenance providers, and senior management to drive operational excellence.

Leadership and Team Management:

• Manage and provide leadership to a team of performance engineers, analysts, and data scientists.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Set performance goals and conduct regular performance evaluations for direct reports.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to team members.

Optimization Initiatives:

• Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve the performance and efficiency of solar and storage assets.
• Develop and implement optimization initiatives, leveraging both traditional engineering methods and advanced data science techniques.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful implementation of optimization strategies.
• Stay up to date with industry best practices and emerging technologies related to performance optimization and data science.

Data Analysis and Cleansing:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sources to identify performance trends and anomalies.
• Develop and implement data cleansing methodologies to ensure accurate and reliable performance data.
• Apply advanced data science techniques, such as machine learning and predictive modeling, to derive actionable insights.
• Generate insightful reports and dashboards for senior management, asset managers, and operations and maintenance providers.

Data Science Leadership:

• Manage a team of data scientists, overseeing their work in data modeling, predictive analytics, and algorithm development.
• Provide guidance on data science methodologies and best practices to optimize performance and drive operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with data scientists to develop innovative approaches to solving complex performance optimization challenges.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with asset managers, operations and maintenance providers, and other stakeholders to align on performance goals and strategies.
• Communicate performance metrics, trends, and findings to senior management and other relevant stakeholders Collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sources to identify performance trends and anomalies.
• Act as a subject matter expert and provide guidance on performance optimization, analytics, and data science-related matters.
• Foster strong relationships with external vendors, industry experts, and research organizations to stay informed about the latest advancements in the field.

Must-Haves

• Proven experience (8+ years) in performance optimization, analytics, and data science, within the renewable energy industry.
• Strong knowledge of solar and storage systems and their performance characteristics.
• Proficiency in data analysis, statistical modeling, and data visualization tools (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB, Tableau, Power BI).
• Experience in managing and leading a team of engineers, analysts, and data scientists.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think strategically.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Professional Engineer Certification preferred.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
• Advanced degree preferred.

Working Environment and Physical Demand

• Remote, with up to 15% travel to various solar sites.