Solar Photovoltaic Installers

What the job really is

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.

At a glance

• Sector: Construction & Extraction
• O*NET-SOC code: 47-2231
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.

Tools and technology

Extensible markup language XML, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Salesforce software, Acetylene torches, Adjustable hand wrenches, Builders' levels, Caulking equipment, Channel lock pliers, Claw hammers

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians
• Solar Energy Installation Managers
• Wind Turbine Service Technicians
• Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
• Lighting Technicians
• Electricians
• Geothermal Technicians
• Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Solar Photovoltaic Installers — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.