top of page

Engineering Technician

The Job of an Engineering Technician, a comprehensive guide

A Solar Engineering Technician working on system design is responsible for designing solar panel systems and determining the material and specification requirements for solar installations. They must have a strong technical understanding of the solar manufacturing process.

Engineering Technician

Overview of the Engineering Technician Job

Solar Engineering Technicians help shape custom project developments to ensure they are built in the most efficient, safe, and economical way,

Engineering Technician Salary

Technicians working in applied areas generally average $60,000 to $70,000 annually per the BLS.  Technicians with backgrounds in mechanical/electrical/industrial earn similar salaries and as with all roles, salaries vary by location and scope of work.  

Common Engineering Technician Job Descriptions

The key responsibilities of a Solar Engineering Technician include the following:

  • Designing solar panel systems: They design solar panel systems based on customer specifications, project requirements, and local codes and regulations.

  • Determining material and specification requirements: They determine the materials and specifications required for solar installations, including solar panels, mounting systems, wiring, and inverters.

  • Preparing technical drawings and documentation: They prepare technical drawings, schematics, and other documentation for solar panel systems to ensure proper installation and operation.

  • Collaborating with other professionals: They work closely with other professionals in the solar industry, such as electrical engineers, project managers, and installers, to ensure that solar installations are designed and installed correctly.

  • Maintaining technical knowledge: They keep up-to-date with advancements in solar technology, codes, and regulations to ensure that solar panel systems are designed to the latest standards.

Engineering Technician Job and Skill Requirements

To become a Solar Engineering Technician working on system design, one typically will see the following requirements:

  • Associate's, Bachelor degree or technical certification in engineering

  • Experience in solar panel design and installation is highly valued

  • Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software / SolidWorks

  • Knowledge of electrical power calculations

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential

  • Knowledge of safety standards and building codes

  • May require NABCEP's PV System Inspector (PVSI) Board Certification

  • Familiarity with NEC, GO95, and NESC codes

  • Experience as an electrician / journeyman is beneficial

  • Knowledge in using on-site tools, electrical meters, and testing equipment

What's the day-to-day of an Engineering Technician?

The day-to-day work of a Solar Engineering Technician working on system design involves

  • Designing solar panel systems and layouts for custom projects

  • Research compliance implications and modify design as necessary

  • Determining material and specification requirements

  • Review structural specifications of the project and performing calculations to ensure support

  • Preparing technical documentation including forecasting cost and electrical power for customers

  • Test equipment to ensure performance is met

  • Staying up to date on the solar industry to maintain technical knowledge

Outlook for Engineering Technician Jobs

While residential panels are increasingly commoditized and manufactured at scale in a standardized fashion, engineering technicians are needed for custom projects.

Career Opportunities for Engineering Technicians

Technicians will gain experience between the manufacturing and installation stages of the solar industry.  As such, they can potentially bridge into advanced manufacturing positions (e.g. Mechanical, Industrial, or Environmental roles, though these may require an advance certification), or if interested, bridge into installation and operations roles like the solar PV technician.

How to Become an Engineering Technician

The best way to find a job as a Solar Engineering Technician working on system design is to network within the solar industry, attend industry conferences, and seek out job postings on job search websites or company career pages. WorkInSolar will be your portal to search for all the best solar jobs available.

How to keep learning more

Technicians are an important bridge between manufacturing and installation.  If you enjoy applying your technical knowledge to custom projects and are interested in sustainable energy, the environment, and a growing and dynamic industry, then this could be a great job for you.  Stay up to date on the latest news in solar by subscribing to our blog.

Find Solar Engineering Technician Jobs

Create a Job Alert to get the latest Solar Engineering Technician jobs in your inbox


bottom of page