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47-1011.03 - Solar Energy Installation Managers

Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.

Key Facts

Bright Outlook

Career Details

Green Job

Career Details

Current Employment

578,400

Estimate

Forecasted Employment

636,100

Estimate

Change in Employment

+57,700

Estimate

Change in Employment %

+10%

Estimate

Tasks

The tasks listed below can be performed to prepare you for a career in this field.

Core

Plan and coordinate installations of photovoltaic (PV) solar and solar thermal systems to ensure conformance to codes.
Supervise solar installers, technicians, and subcontractors for solar installation projects to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Assess potential solar installation sites to determine feasibility and design requirements.
Assess system performance or functionality at the system, subsystem, and component levels.
Coordinate or schedule building inspections for solar installation projects.
Monitor work of contractors and subcontractors to ensure projects conform to plans, specifications, schedules, or budgets.
Perform start-up of systems for testing or customer implementation.
Provide technical assistance to installers, technicians, or other solar professionals in areas such as solar electric systems, solar thermal systems, electrical systems, or mechanical systems.
Visit customer sites to determine solar system needs, requirements, or specifications.
Develop and maintain system architecture, including all piping, instrumentation, or process flow diagrams.
Estimate materials, equipment, and personnel needed for residential or commercial solar installation projects.
Evaluate subcontractors or subcontractor bids for quality, cost, and reliability.
Identify means to reduce costs, minimize risks, or increase efficiency of solar installation projects.
Prepare solar installation project proposals, quotes, budgets, or schedules.
Purchase or rent equipment for solar energy system installation.

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Knowledge

The items listed below are organized into sections that contain knowledge useful for pursuing a career in this field. Each section also contains a "Percentage of Importance" statistic that shows how relevant an item is to the occupation.

Customer and Personal Service

Building and Construction

Engineering and Technology

Administration and Management

Sales and Marketing

Public Safety and Security

Computers and Electronics

Education and Training

Production and Processing

Clerical

Transportation

Physics

Personnel and Human Resources

Economics and Accounting

Law and Government

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Tools

The tools listed below include machines, equipment, tools, and software that is useful for individuals who are interested in this career.

Welding and soldering and brazing accessories

Wrenches and drivers

Holding and clamping tools

Dispensing tools

Pumps

Power tools

Cutting and crimping and punching tools

Computers

Electrical measuring and testing equipment and accessories

Light and wave generating and measuring equipment

Geophysical and geotechnical instruments

Tool attachments and accessories

Ladders and scaffolding

Respiratory protection

Lifting equipment and accessories

Audio and visual equipment

Calculating machines and accessories

Mechanical instruments

Safety apparel

Sealing tools

Rough and finishing tools

Vision protection and accessories

Prying and bending tools

Computer data input devices

Meteorological instruments

Soldering machines

Measuring and layout tools

Land surveying instruments

Earth moving machinery

Metal bending machines

Metal cutting tools

Cameras

Passenger motor vehicles

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Technology

The technologies listed below include machines, equipment, tools, and software that is useful for individuals who are interested in this career.

Industry specific software

Business function specific software

Data management and query software

Information exchange software

Content authoring and editing software

Operating environment software

Development software

Finance accounting and enterprise resource planning ERP software

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Certifications

FastForward at Virginia's Community Colleges is a short-term training program for high-demand industries, like healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades and infrastructure, helping Virginians get the jobs and salaries they need. Our goal is to get you trained, help you earn your certification, and get you into a career that can support you and your family. Explore the latest training program offerings by visiting FastForward

The certifications listed below are useful to pursue if you are interested in a career in this field.

Advanced

Core

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Licensing

The licensing information below is organized into sections and is useful for pursuing if you are interested in a career in this field.

No specific licensing information is listed for this occupation in the area you have selected.

All data sourced from US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration O*Net Database.

Related Programs

Programs related to this career, offered by participating institution(s), are listed below.

Clicking on the Degree programs in the list below will take you away from the Careers page.

INSTITUTION

PROGRAMS

Brightpoint Community College

Programs

Danville Community College

Programs

Ferrum College

Programs

Germanna Community College

Programs

Mountain Empire Community College

Programs

Mountain Gateway Community College

Programs

New River Community College

Programs

Career Studies Certificate in Construction Technology

Career Studies Certificate

The career studies certificate program is a response to the non-conventional short-term program of studies needed by many adults within the college's region. It offers a series of specialized program options which represent a wide variety of adult career and academic interest course areas. The options within this program are intended to represent the minimum amount of college work considered representative of these fields of study. Each of the program options is designed as a distinct "mini-curriculumThe career studies certificate program is a response to the non-conventional short-term program of studies needed by many adults within the college region. It offers a series of specialized program options which represent a wide variety of adult career and academic interest course areas. The options within this program are intended to represent the minimum amount of college course work considered representative of these fields of study within a broader range of adult educational possibilities.

Career Studies Certificate in Practical Electrical Technician I

Career Studies Certificate

This career studies certificate leads to entry-level employment in the electrical industry. This curriculum provides foundational knowledge in basic electrical concepts, safety, wiring, controls and the National Electrical Code. Upon completion of the career studies certificate, students are employable as entry-level maintenance workers, electricianÃ•s helpers, and entry-level wiring technicians.

Career Studies Certificate in Practical Electrical Technician II

Career Studies Certificate

This career studies certificate leads to technician-level employment in the electrical industry. This curriculum provides operational skills and knowledge in electric power utilities, electrical machines, electronic devices, and programmable logic controllers. Upon completion of the career studies certificate, students are employable as electrical maintenance technicians, utility power technicians, small utilities technicians, and electrical engineer technicians.

Northern Virginia Community College

Programs

Paul D. Camp Community College

Programs

Rappahannock Community College

Programs

Southside Virginia Community College

Programs

Tidewater Community College

Programs

Certificate - Electrical Wiring

Certificate

The Certificate in Electrical Wiring prepares students for employment as electricians and assists those already employed to upgrade their skills and knowledge for advancement in the field.

Career Studies Certificate - Electrical Wiring

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Electrical Wiring includes additional instruction in electrical theory and wiring methods.

Career Studies Certificate - Electrical Wiring for Technicians

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Electrical Wiring for Technicians provides classroom instruction--required by the Commonwealth of Virginia--to take the electrician licensing examination.

Students enrolled in this curriculum are not eligible for federal financial assistance.

Career Studies Certificate - Marine Electrical

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Marine Electrical is focused on the maintenance and repair of shipboard electrical and electronic systems. Following completion of this program, individuals may seek employment as marine electricians.

Career Studies Certificate - Off-Shore Wind Energy Technician

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Off-Shore Wind Energy Technician introduces students to the theory of operating a large commercial wind turbine. Students will be exposed to the mechanical and electrical components of the system and will learn how programmable logic controllers direct the operation of a wind turbine. The capstone class will provide students with hands-on experience in operating a wind turbine simulator and troubleshooting wind turbine issues.

Career Studies Certificate - Fiber and Data Cabling Installation

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Fiber and Data Cabling Installation prepares students for careers in the maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and repair of fiber, data, and video network systems. Students who complete this program will be prepared to take the industry- and manufacturer-specific certification exams for Fiber and Data Cabling.

Career Studies Certificate - Renewable Energy Technologies

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies prepares students for a career in the design, installation, and maintenance of alternative energy systems. Students who complete this program will be prepared to take industry - and manufacturer-specific certification exams for Renewable Energies Integrator Installer.

Career Studies Certificate - Construction Project Management

Career Studies Certificate

The Career Studies Certificate in Construction Project Management is designed to address all aspects of managing construction sites, including areas such as job-site administration, estimating and bidding, construction bidding, construction systems, construction safety, and construction surveying applications.

Associate of Applied Science - Maritime Technologies (Pipefitter)

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Maritime Technologies is designed to prepare students seeking careers in the maritime industry or those who are in maritime-related apprenticeship programs to gain the necessary increase in skill level to move into supervisory positions both within their technical fields and within their companies.

Secondarily, this program is designed to prepare novice students for employment in a variety of areas within the maritime industry, to include the following: electrician, electronics technician, inside machinist, outside machinist, pipefitter, rigger, painter, carpenter, insulator, shipfitter, welder and sheetmetal worker. The program provides students with a comprehensive set of maritime industry-related skills that employers seek when selecting technicians for their industry.

Graduates of the Maritime Technologies program who have also completed a registered apprenticeship program will be prepared to apply for supervisory positions within the maritime industry or to pursue a career pathway to a university in a related program. Those graduates who entered the program with no maritime experience will be prepared to apply for positions within the industry.

Associate of Applied Science - Electrical Technology (Programming and Logic Control)

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Electrical Technology is designed to prepare students for employment in various industries as electrical/electronic technicians. Students develop the practical skills needed to calculate, install, and work with electrical machinery, machine control, and other electrically controlled devices in residential, commercial and industrial environments. In addition, this program also provides students with a comprehensive set of skills that are needed in the electrical industry.

Training options in career specialty areas include program and logic control, industrial and business management, renewable energy technologies, fiber and data cabling, and occupational safety. The degree offers students an in-depth background in electrical fundamentals through theory and hands-on instruction.

Associate of Applied Science - Electrical Technology (Industrial and Business Management)

Associate of Applied Science

Associate of Applied Science - Electrical Technology (Renewable Energy Technologies)

Associate of Applied Science

Associate of Applied Science - Electrical Technology (Fiber and Data Cabling)

Associate of Applied Science

Associate of Applied Science - Electrical Technology (Occupational Safety)

Associate of Applied Science

Virginia Highlands Community College

Programs

Wytheville Community College

Programs

Career Studies Certificate in Electrical I

Career Studies Certificate

This program gives many job options in several settings including new construction, remodeling, and working toward a status as a Master Electrician.

Career Studies Certificate in Electrical II

Career Studies Certificate

This program gives many job options in several settings including new construction, remodeling, and working toward a status as a Master Electrician.

Career Studies Certificate in Carpentry I

Career Studies Certificate

This program allows students to find job openings as a carpentry helper in home and light commercial settings. Students can get their Class C General Contractor License and start their own business.

Career Studies Certificate in Carpentry II

Career Studies Certificate

This program allows students to find job openings as a carpentry helper in home and light commercial settings. Students can get their Class C General Contractor License and start their own business.

Career Studies Certificate in Plumbing I

Career Studies Certificate

This program allows students to find job openings as a plumber in home and light commercial settings.

Career Studies Certificate in Plumbing II

Career Studies Certificate

This program allows students to find job openings as a plumber in home and light commercial settings.

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Welding

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Welding (718-06) provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. This program features a combination of Welding and General Education courses designed to meet educational and employment goals. You must complete two approved career studies certificates along with additional core and general education courses. Curriculum will be approved by the Chief Academic Officer or designee to ensure a coherent plan of study.

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Electrical

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Electrical (718-07) provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. This program features a combination of Electrical and General Education courses designed to meet educational and employment goals. You must complete two approved career studies certificates along with additional core and general education courses. Curriculum will be approved by the Chief Academic Officer or designee to ensure a coherent plan of study.

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies HVAC

Associate of Applied Science

he Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies HVAC (718-08) provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. This program features a combination of HVAC and General Education courses designed to meet educational and employment goals. You must complete two approved career studies certificates along with additional core and general education courses. Curriculum will be approved by the Chief Academic Officer or designee to ensure a coherent plan of study.

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Plumbing

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Plumbing (718-09) provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. This program features a combination of Plumbing and General Education courses designed to meet educational and employment goals. You must complete two approved career studies certificates along with additional core and general education courses. Curriculum will be approved by the Chief Academic Officer or designee to ensure a coherent plan of study.

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Carpentry

Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies Carpentry (718-10) provides flexible alternatives for meeting student and employer needs. This program features a combination of Carpentry and General Education courses designed to meet educational and employment goals. You must complete two approved career studies certificates along with additional core and general education courses. Curriculum will be approved by the Chief Academic Officer or designee to ensure a coherent plan of study.

Diploma in Construction Technology with a Track in Carpentry

Diploma

This program is designed for those seeking entry level employment as construction contractors, carpenters, and building framers. The diploma provides building and construction training based on the current Virginia adoption of the International Building Code (IRC). The track provides training and a pathway that can lead to a number of construction related credentials including Contractor Licensure.

Diploma in Construction Technology with a Track in Electrical

Diploma

This program is designed for those seeking entry level employment as electricians, residential wire installers, and workers in the electrical trades. The diploma provides building and construction training based on the current Virginia adoption of the International Building Code (IRC). The track provides training and a pathway that provides training based on the current Virginia adoption of the National Electric Code (NEC).

Diploma in Construction Technology with a Track in Plumbing

Diploma

This program is designed for those seeking entry level work as plumbers. Courses provide building and construction training based on the current Virginia adoption of the International Building Code (IRC). The track is designed for those seeking entry level employment in the Plumbing Trades and is a pathway to Virginia Tradesman Licensure.

Diploma in Construction Technology with a Track in HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Diploma

This program is designed for those seeking entry level employment in the Mechanical (HVAC) Trades and is a pathway to Virginia Tradesman Licensure. Courses provide building and construction training based on the current Virginia adoption of the International Building Code (IRC).