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.
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