Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Your Fit

Income

$49K

Preparation

Some

Growth

22.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Solar Photovoltaic Installer?

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers are professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing solar panel systems. These systems convert sunlight into electricity and are increasingly vital in the shift towards renewable energy sources.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Solar Photovoltaic Installer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Solar Photovoltaic Installer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$43K per year	$49K per year	$60K per year	$74K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $740 above the national average.

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What does a Solar Photovoltaic Installer do?

Work environment

Solar PV Installers typically work outdoors on rooftops or other structures where solar panels can be installed. The job involves physical labor and can require working at heights. Installers may work in various weather conditions and must adhere to safety standards to minimize risks.

Quick task list

Installs solar panels and mounting systems on rooftops or other structures.
Connects solar panels to the electrical grid.
Performs maintenance and repair work on solar panel systems.
Interprets site assessment information and blueprints.
Ensures compliance with local building codes and safety regulations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Installation: Focusing on installing solar panels on homes.
Commercial Installation: Working on larger solar installations for businesses and public facilities.
Maintenance and Repair: Specializing in the upkeep and troubleshooting of existing solar systems.
System Design: Creating custom solar energy solutions for specific sites and needs.
Technical Sales and Consulting: Providing expertise and advice on solar energy systems to potential clients.

Description

Solar Photovoltaic Installers play a key role in the growing renewable energy sector. The job requires not only technical skills in installing and maintaining solar panels but also an understanding of electrical systems and energy efficiency. Installers need to be adept at using a variety of tools and equipment, and they must be able to work meticulously to ensure that installations are safe and effective.

The role involves both physical and mental challenges. Installers must be comfortable working at heights and in various outdoor conditions, often requiring good physical fitness and dexterity. Additionally, problem-solving skills are crucial, as installers frequently need to adapt to different roof layouts and troubleshoot system issues.

As renewable energy technologies evolve, Solar PV Installers must keep up-to-date with industry developments and new techniques. This field offers opportunities for continuous learning and growth, with the potential to specialize in areas such as system design or technical sales.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to environmental sustainability and clean energy production.
Working in a rapidly growing and evolving industry.
The hands-on nature of the work and the satisfaction of completing installations.

You might make a good Solar Photovoltaic Installer if you are...

Interested in renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Comfortable with physical labor and working outdoors.
Detail-oriented and adept at following technical plans and guidelines.
A problem solver who enjoys tackling technical challenges.
Willing to continually learn and adapt to new technologies.

Pros:

Growing industry with increasing demand for skilled workers.
Opportunities for career advancement and specialization.
Job satisfaction from contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential risks, especially when working at heights.
Work can be affected by weather conditions, leading to seasonal variability.
May require travel to different job sites.

How to become a Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma is required, followed by on-the-job training or a technical school program. Some installers may complete apprenticeships. Formal education and training programs can last from several months to a year.

High school preparation

Courses:

Science, especially physics and environmental science, to understand energy principles.
Mathematics for measurements and calculations.
Technical education classes, particularly in electricity and electronics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining environmental clubs to learn about sustainability.
Participating in hands-on workshops or maker fairs focused on technology and renewable energy.
Volunteering in community projects that involve renewable energy initiatives.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a vocational or technical school program focusing on solar energy or electrical systems.
Seek an apprenticeship or entry-level position with a solar installation company for practical experience.
Obtain certifications such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar PV Installer Certification.

More resources

North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) - Offers certification and training resources for solar professionals.
Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) - Provides industry news and educational materials.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Detailed job descriptions and educational pathways in solar technology.
Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) - Offers training and credentialing in renewable energy professions.

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