Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Journeyman Electrician PV Installer (Journeyman Electrician Photovoltaic Installer); PV Installation Tech (Photovoltaic Installation Technician); PV Installer (Photovoltaic Installer); Solar Designer; Solar Electric Installer; Solar Installer; Solar Panel Installation Technician (Solar Panel Installation Tech); Solar PV Installer (Solar Photovoltaic Installer); Solar PV Integrator (Solar Photovoltaic Integrator); Solar Technician (Solar Tech)

Tasks

• Install photovoltaic (PV) systems in accordance with codes and standards, using drawings, schematics, and instructions.
• Check electrical installation for proper wiring, polarity, grounding, or integrity of terminations.
• Identify electrical, environmental, and safety hazards associated with photovoltaic (PV) installations.
• Identify installation locations with proper orientation, area, solar access, or structural integrity for photovoltaic (PV) arrays.
• Assemble solar modules, panels, or support structures, as specified.
• Apply weather sealing to array, building, or support mechanisms.
• Install module array interconnect wiring, implementing measures to disable arrays during installation.
• Install required labels on solar system components and hardware.
• Diagram layouts and locations for photovoltaic (PV) arrays and equipment, including existing building or site features.
• Determine materials, equipment, and installation sequences necessary to maximize installation efficiency.
• Test operating voltages to ensure operation within acceptable limits for power conditioning equipment, such as inverters and controllers.
• Determine appropriate sizes, ratings, and locations for all system overcurrent devices, disconnect devices, grounding equipment, and surge suppression equipment.
• Activate photovoltaic (PV) systems to verify system functionality and conformity to performance expectations.
• Identify and resolve any deficiencies in photovoltaic (PV) system installation or materials.
• Visually inspect and test photovoltaic (PV) modules or systems.

Knowledge

• Building and Construction
• Engineering and Technology
• Mechanical
• Administration and Management
• Design
• Customer and Personal Service
• Mathematics
• Public Safety and Security
• Education and Training
• Production and Processing
• English Language
• Computers and Electronics

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Active Listening
• Monitoring
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Learning

Abilities

• Problem Sensitivity
• Near Vision
• Visualization
• Information Ordering
• Oral Comprehension
• Deductive Reasoning
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Oral Expression
• Perceptual Speed
• Multilimb Coordination
• Static Strength
• Trunk Strength
• Extent Flexibility
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Selective Attention
• Control Precision
• Gross Body Equilibrium