What does a solar energy technician do

What does a solar technician do?

These technicians — also called solar technicians, solar techs, solar panel installers, solar energy photovoltaic installers or solar photovoltaic installers — assemble, install and maintain solar panels on homes, businesses or open land. Solar technicians install photovoltaic solar panels or PV panels, which convert sunshine into energy.

Do solar energy technicians need to be electricians?

No. Solar energy technicians do not need to be electricians, but they do need a basic understanding of electrical systems since they must install and maintain solar systems. The job requires connecting the solar panels to the electrical grid, which is often done under the guidance of a senior solar energy technician.

What skills do you need to become a solar energy technician?

There are a variety of skills that can be helpful in developing a career as a solar energy technician, including: Much of the work that a solar energy technician performs involves at least some knowledge of construction processes and tools, like attaching panels to different types of roofs and wiring them to electrical grids.

How much do solar technicians make?

Solar technicians salaries depend on experience, education, location, and additional skills. PayScale (2020) notes four categories of this profession—solar energy system installer, solar installer, solar panel installer, and solar technician—and salaries range between $12 and $27 per hour.

Is a solar technician a good career?

Solar is a rare opportunity. It's a field that's growing, and solar technician is a career that requires a short preparation time yet pays a solid salary. If focused, on-the-job paid training sounds like a career plan that would work for your life, keep reading. Solar technician jobs are projected to grow more than 60% during the next decade.

What is the difference between a solar technician and an electrician?

While most solar technicians are primarily responsible for installation and maintenance of solar systems, solar electricians handle more complex wiring work, maintaining commercial solar arrays, connecting systems to the grid or inverters and more, and have much more stringent professional requirements.