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Design Intern (Solar PV)

HighlightsAbout UsPosition OverviewKey ResponsibilitiesQualificationsPreferred Skills (Not Required)What We OfferHow to Apply 

Highlights

Posted: October 3, 2025

Location: Portland, Maine (Remote/Hybrid flexibility based on candidate location)

Reports To: Director of Projects

Job Type: Internship

Schedule & Hours: Flexible schedule and start date, part-time or full-time, 240-320 hours total

Compensation: $20/hour

About Us

Maine Community Power Cooperative (MCPC) is a mission-driven start-up working to accelerate the clean energy transition by developing and delivering community solar projects that benefit Maine residents, businesses, and municipalities. As a cooperative, we are member-owned and rooted in a commitment to equity, sustainability, and local economic empowerment.

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Design Intern to join our solar development team. This role is ideal for students or early-career professionals interested in renewable energy, CAD/GIS design, and the technical aspects of solar PV project development. The Design Intern will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and workflows while contributing to real community-scale solar projects across Maine.

Key Responsibilities

  • Site & Layout Design
    • Assist with creating preliminary and detailed solar PV site layouts using Helioscope, PVSyst, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, and related tools.
    • Prepare plan sets showing array footprint, access roads, easements, and interconnection points.
    • Support shading analysis and array orientation optimization.

  • Technical Support
    • Contribute to inverter stringing diagrams, racking layouts, and conduit schedules under the guidance of project engineers.
    • Help refine cost estimation models by providing an accurate bill of materials from designs.
    • Support production modeling using tools such as PVSyst and Helioscope (training provided).

  • Data & Mapping
    • Work with GIS datasets (parcel maps, topography, utility circuits) to identify viable project sites.
    • Support parcel scoring workflows, incorporating environmental, technical, and regulatory constraints.

  • Documentation & Collaboration
    • Assist in preparing drawing packages and documentation for internal review, RFPs, and interconnection applications.
    • Maintain organized project files, version control, and drawing standards.
    • Collaborate with developers, engineers, and managers on active projects.

Qualifications

Successful candidates will have the following qualifications and experiences:

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Renewable Energy, GIS, or a related field.
  • Familiarity with at least one design platform (AutoCAD, ArcGIS/QGIS, SketchUp, or equivalent).
  • Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills.
  • Interest in renewable energy and sustainability.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

  • Experience with PVsyst, Helioscope, or similar solar modeling software.
  • Coursework or hands-on experience in electrical, civil, or environmental engineering.
  • Basic understanding of solar PV system components (modules, inverters, racking, BOS).
  • Familiarity with NEC code or permitting processes is a plus.

What We Offer

  • Hands-on exposure to real solar projects and professional workflows.
  • Mentorship from experienced project developers and designers.
  • Flexible schedule tailored to academic or career needs.
  • Opportunity to build a portfolio of solar design and engineering work.
  • Potential for continued employment or career advancement in renewable energy.

How to Apply 

Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to jobs@mainecommunitypower.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways.

Maine Community Power Cooperative is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to ensuring equal opportunity for all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.