Solar Energy System Installer
A Solar Energy System Installer specializes in the installation and maintenance of solar energy systems, playing a vital role in the growing field of renewable energy. These professionals evaluate the requirements for solar panel installation at residential and commercial sites, ensuring existing electrical systems can integrate solar energy inputs. They commonly have backgrounds in electrical installation, general contracting, or home remodeling, as this expertise is essential for managing the complexities of solar energy projects.
Solar energy system installers typically work both independently and as part of teams, collaborating closely with general contractors and other specialists during installations. Their work often involves navigating various environments, primarily focusing on rooftops, and they must adhere to safety protocols, especially when working at heights. Job opportunities in this field are robust, with a much faster-than-average employment growth forecast.
While a high school diploma is typically required, many installers gain valuable skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs. The average annual earnings for solar energy installers are around $48,800. This occupation not only appeals to those interested in electronics and renewable energy but also provides a pathway to contribute positively to the environment.
Solar Energy System Installer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Architecture & Construction, Manufacturing
Interests: Electrical installation and repair, alternative and green energy, wiring, electrical systems, general contracting
Earnings (Yearly Median): $48,800 per year $23.46 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 22% (Much faster than average)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work. Solar energy system installers are members of the larger electrical installation and maintenance industry and are considered green jobs. Professional solar energy system installers must also have expertise in home alteration and familiarity with roofing, wiring, and general home remodeling procedures. Many solar energy system specialists also work as electricians or general home contractors and handle solar energy as a facet of their contracting business.
Solar energy system installers visit homes and businesses to evaluate the physical and technical requirements for installing solar panels and to rewire existing electrical systems to accept input from solar energy collectors. In addition, solar energy workers must perform routine maintenance and repair at sites where solar energy systems have already been installed.
Work Environment. Solar energy system installers typically work for private companies or as independent subcontractors. They may work in teams, with several installers simultaneously working on a single site. Installers also often work closely with general contractors and other home repair specialists. Solar energy system installers often need to develop and maintain working relationships with state and local licensing officials to obtain the proper permits for various projects.
Because solar energy systems are installed on-site, installers must visit a variety of work environments. In addition, most homes and businesses install solar panels on the roof, so workers must be comfortable working on top of buildings of various sizes.
Occupation Interest. Those best suited to a solar energy system installation career are strongly interested in electronics installation and repair. Experience working as a general contractor or home-remodeling specialist is beneficial. In addition, solar energy technology may appeal to those interested in alternative and renewable energy, who often enter the profession partly out of a desire to help combat the detrimental effects of fossil fuel use.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. There are several stages to every solar energy system installation project, beginning with a site evaluation. During this stage, one or more installers and solar energy specialists examine the physical site to evaluate the difficulties involved and the materials needed to perform the installation. In addition, the solar energy team examines the current energy usage of the home or business to determine if a solar energy system will be effective and establishes the optimal layout and design for the proposed system.
After performing a site evaluation, installers must coordinate with other contractors to arrange additional site alterations before the installation begins. The installation team typically obtains permits for the project and coordinates with utility companies in the area to manage the power transfer. The team also assembles and prepares solar panel arrays and other equipment needed for the specific project before beginning the installation.
Once preparations are complete, the installation team must work on-site for periods ranging from several days to several months, depending on the scope of the project and the degree to which the site needs to be altered to permit installation. Solar energy systems are typically installed on rooftops, and workers must take steps to ensure their safety during the installation. Installers usually use a temporary rope-and-harness system to safely complete the work, especially on steep surfaces.
Installers mount supporting structures, secure panels, and wire the electrical components. Each installed solar panel must be tested to confirm that the panel and connected electrical system are functioning properly and efficiently. Solar energy system installers may also install specialized equipment within the home to collect, store, and transfer solar energy to power home appliances.
A solar energy system installer also maintains and repairs solar energy equipment from previous installation projects. Solar panels are fragile and can be damaged by projectiles and inclement weather. In some cases, workers may have to conduct maintenance and repair on the support structures or electronics systems connected to the solar energy collectors.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Solar energy system installers work outdoors and indoors in various environments and often work on rooftops and the tops of buildings. Because solar energy systems require sunlight, installers typically work in areas frequently exposed to intense sun.
Plant Environment. Solar energy system installers do most of their work on-site, but they may also utilize a workshop at their company to prepare and assemble systems before installation. Workshops contain specialized equipment for testing the electronic components of solar energy panels and other equipment.
Human Environment. Some solar energy system installers work alone on projects, but extensive installations often require teams of installers who must work together to handle different aspects of the job. In addition, installers must work closely with home contractors, designers, and other construction specialists to integrate solar technology into the existing building plan.
Technological Environment. Installers often use hand and power tools such as hammers and drills to complete installation projects. They also rely on project management and basic office software to plan and organize installation projects.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students can prepare for a solar energy installation career by taking electronics and mathematics classes. Familiarity with basic physics and mechanics can also be helpful in planning installation projects. In addition, computer classes can be helpful for understanding the software used to test and develop solar energy systems.
Postsecondary. Many colleges and trade schools offer basic electronics classes that can be helpful for obtaining work in solar energy systems. Trade and technical schools are more likely to offer specific programs in solar energy technology and other specialized skills involved in the field. Most solar energy system installers also work as general contractors or electricians. Training in these fields can be obtained through various technical institutions. Some technical schools may offer classes that train contractors specifically in using software and equipment used in solar energy technology.
Many individuals who work as solar energy contractors begin by working alongside experienced installers in apprenticeship programs that last from several months to a year. Distance courses are also available and best suited for those already in the construction industry. Several companies offering solar energy installation services provide training and apprenticeships for those interested in the field.
Related Occupations
− Glazier
− Heating & Cooling Technician
Bibliography
"Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023 47-2231 Solar Photovoltaic Installers." US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes472231.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.
"Solar Photovoltaic Installers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/solar-photovoltaic-installers.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.