Solar PV installer
Solar PV (photovoltaic) installers set up solar panels on roofs, structures and land, generating electricity from sunlight.
Also known as: solar photovoltaic installer, solar panel installer, solar installer
About the job
What it's like
As a solar PV (photovoltaic) installer, you’ll install and service solar panels on buildings and land. You'll make sure they efficiently convert solar power into renewable energy.
You’ll need to be knowledgeable about electrical systems and be comfortable working from heights.
If you’ve got good analytical skills and attention to detail and can work well with others, this could be a great role for you.
Your tasks might include:
assessing locations to make sure they’re suitable for solar panels
measuring areas for installation
adjusting building surfaces so panels fit and are supported
installing and wiring solar panels
troubleshooting and repairing solar systems
maintaining solar systems: which involves cleaning and checking for damage
connecting solar panels to an electrical system
Green job
In this job you’ll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Go Construct – for information on being a solar panel installer
Scottish Renewables – to find out more about renewable energy in Scotland
My Energy Future – for more information about the future of energy
Meet Mandeep – a Modern Apprentice working on solar farms in Scotland
Solar Power Europe – all about solar power, from its beginnings to the future
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Solar PV installer'
Select qualification level(s)
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Solar electrician
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Engineering and manufacturing -
Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- attention to detail
- analysing
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Physics
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Skills for Work: Construction Craft
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Practical Electronics
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
To become a solar PV installer, you typically need a combination of education, training and experience.
University
There are various routes to becoming a solar PV installer. Some employers may prefer applicants with a degree in subjects such as:
Electrical Engineering
Renewable Energy
Engineering
Solar Energy Science
Solar Technology
What you need to enter a degree course will vary depending on the subject and university. For an electrical engineering degree, you’ll likely need:
at least four Highers at C or better, including Higher Maths and a Science or Technology
Some universities will have higher entry requirements, these are what you'll need as a minimum. A relevant HNC or HND will allow you to apply for some courses.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find work or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering
What you'll need for a college course will depend on the qualification level, subject and college. As a guide, for an HND in electrical engineering, you'll likely need two Highers at C or better, including Maths and a relevant science-based subject.
Apprenticeships
Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) are chosen as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 but include hands-on learning at a local employer or college. They are the same level as a Higher.
You might want to consider an FA in areas such as:
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Work experience
You may be able to find work experience with an electrician and work with them during weekends and school holidays.
Some employers may need you to have qualifications in the following:
Electrical installer at Level 3 NVQ by City & Guilds 18th edition
Depending on the employer and location of the job, you may also need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
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