PV TECHNICIAN (PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNICIAN)
Job Title: PV Technician
Department: Renewable Energy / Field Operations
Reports To: PV Field Supervisor or Project Manager
Position Overview:
The PV Technician is a specialized field professional responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of photovoltaic (solar) energy systems. This role works on residential, commercial, and sometimes utility-scale solar arrays, ensuring they are installed correctly, operate safely, and perform at optimal efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform the mechanical and electrical installation of solar PV systems, including mounting racking, attaching solar modules, and running conduit/wiring in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations.
- Install and terminate DC and AC wiring, inverters, combiner boxes, disconnect switches, and other system components.
- Conduct system performance testing, commissioning, and startup procedures, including I-V curve tracing and insulation resistance testing.
- Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on existing PV systems, which includes cleaning arrays, inspecting connections, tightening hardware, and replacing faulty components (modules, inverters, optimizers, etc.).
- Use diagnostic tools (multimeters, clamp meters, thermal imaging cameras, data loggers) to troubleshoot system underperformance, ground faults, arc faults, and communication errors.
- Review system design plans and site layouts to ensure accurate implementation.
- Maintain a strict focus on job-site safety, particularly regarding working at heights, electrical hazards, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Document all work performed, including maintenance reports, installation checklists, and safety logs.
- Provide excellent customer service, explaining system operation and basic maintenance to clients.
Qualifications & Skills:
- High School Diploma or equivalent; completion of a solar PV technician training program or electrical apprenticeship is highly desirable.
- Minimum of 1-2 years of hands-on solar installation and/or maintenance experience.
- Understanding of electrical principles, including DC and AC circuits. A state Electrical Journeyman license or PV-specific certification (e.g., NABCEP PV Associate or Installer) is a major advantage.
- Proficiency with hand and power tools, and experience working on rooftops and ladders.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, site plans, and construction drawings.
- Strong problem-solving skills, physical fitness, and comfort working outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
