Student Research Assistant - Grid Connected Solar PV

Student Research Assistant - Grid Connected Solar PV

Agency Prairie View A&M University

Department Electrical Engineering

Proposed Minimum Salary $12.50 hourly

Job Location Prairie View, Texas

Job Type Student Worker

We are seeking a motivated undergraduate student to support a grid-connected solar PV research and demonstration project integrated with a storm-disaster resilient habitat home. The student will gain hands‑on experience working with Solar‑Ark 15 kW converters/inverters, E‑Gauge energy meters, solar PV panels, and utility grid interconnection monitoring. This role includes assisting with system performance verification, troubleshooting, energy data collection, and technical documentation under supervision.

• Support operation and monitoring of Solar‑Ark 15 kW inverter/converter systems (startup checks, modes, alarms, and fault reporting)
• Verify and document power flow behavior between PV production, home load demand, and utility grid import/export
• Assist with E‑Gauge meter setup and validation, including:
  • CT orientation/placement verification
  • Voltage reference checks
  • Data logging and time synchronization
• Collect, organize, and analyze electrical performance data such as:
  • kW, kWh, voltage, current, frequency, and power factor
  • Assist with PV array inspection and troubleshooting
  • String voltage checks & connector and wiring inspection
  • Shading/soiling performance impacts
• Maintain clear documentation of test procedures, results, and weekly system summaries

• Presently enrolled at Prairie View A&M University for at least nine (9) graduate or six (6) undergraduate semester credit hours during the term in which the work is to be done.
• Must be in good academic standing (SAP) as demonstrated through your college; minimum 2.0 GPA
• Sophomore level or above
• No prior experience necessary
• For work eligibility during a summer term, a student must be enrolled for at least three (3) graduate or undergraduate semester credit hours during the term in which the work is to be done or preregistered at least six (6) undergraduate semester hours or nine (9) graduate semester hours for the upcoming fall term.

• Current undergraduate student in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Renewable Energy, or related field
• On‑site work at the Renewable Energy Lab + Habitat Home Demonstration Site
• Understanding of basic electrical concepts (voltage, current, power)

• Follow lab safety procedures and use proper PPE when working near energized equipment
• Strong attention to detail, safety, and technical documentation

Job Posting Close Date 02/13/2026

• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Resume
• Detailed Class Schedule

The required documents listed in the above‑Required Attachments section must be attached to the application prior to the job closing date indicated to ensure full consideration for the application submitted. Please contact the Office of Human Resource on or before the closing date indicated above at 936‑261‑1793 or seo should you need assistance with the online application process.

All applicants are required to apply via our Career Site on or before the closing date indicated on the job posting. Applicant inquiries received via email and websites such as Indeed, Higher Ed Jobs , etc. will not be considered unless the individual has applied to the available position via the PVAMU career site.

All positions are security‑sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.