Solar Inspector
A Comprehensive Guide to the Job of Solar Inspectors
Solar Inspectors are responsible for ensuring solar sites are operational and/or compliant to local, state, and federal requirements.
Overview of the Solar Inspector Job
Solar electrical or building inspectors are a critical role to ensure public safety for large scale deployments of solar. Generally, for smaller scale projects, electricians working on the deployment will handle the responsibility while partnering with local officials.
Solar Inspector Salary
Inspectors will generally earn in line with top electricians (for which they are typically trained) The top 10% of Electricians earned more $99,800 annually per the BLS 2021 data.
Common Solar Inspector Job Descriptions
Inspectors are responsible for the safety of the public in electrical and construction projects for solar installations.
Key responsibilities include:
Conducting site inspections: Solar inspectors visit job sites to inspect solar installations and ensure that they meet local, state, and federal codes.
Assessing electrical systems: They assess electrical systems to ensure that they are properly designed and installed, and that they are compatible with solar installations.
Evaluating solar equipment: They inspect solar panels, inverters, and other equipment to ensure that they meet quality standards and manufacturer specifications.
Documenting findings: They create detailed reports that document their findings and make recommendations for corrective action, if necessary.
Ensuring safety: They ensure that solar installations are safe and pose no threat to people or property, and that they comply with all applicable safety codes.
Solar Inspector Job and Skill Requirements
To become a solar inspector, one typically needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as an electrician's license. Solar-specific training is also required, which can be obtained through vocational schools, community colleges, or other training programs. In addition, experience in the solar industry is highly valued and applicants need to have extensive knowledge of safety standards and building codes. Most jobs will require NABCEP's PV System Inspector (PVSI) Board Certification and being an NEC certified electrician.
What's the day-to-day of a Solar Inspector?
The day-to-day work of a solar inspector involves visiting job sites, assessing electrical systems, evaluating solar equipment, and documenting findings. After inspections, inspectors will document findings and follow-up on any prior inspections. They also work closely with other professionals in the solar industry, such as engineers, electricians, and project managers, to ensure that solar installations are safe and meet all applicable codes.
Job Outlook for Solar Inspectors
The solar industry is continuing to experience rapid growth and safety and longevity of solar installations is top of mind. Solar inspectors play a critical role and will likely grow faster than the overall labor market.
Career Opportunities for Solar Inspectors
Inspectors have extensive solar, policy, and electrical knowledge. There is opportunity to bridge into project management or project development roles.
How to Become a Solar Inspector
The best way to find a job as a solar inspector is to network within the solar industry and attend industry conferences while staying up to date on local policy. Otherwise, browse job boards such as Indeed to research new roles that are posted or try a more niche board like WorkInSolar that will only have the latest solar jobs on the market.
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