Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians
Low23.46%
Found in Industries:
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$38,690
Median$61,550
High (90th %)$103,140
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Install or repair solar energy systems designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water for residential, commercial or industrial use.
The occupation of "Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians" has an automation risk assessed at 23.5%, which closely aligns with its base risk of 23.8%. This relatively moderate risk suggests that while certain technical aspects of the job are susceptible to automation, a significant proportion of the role's responsibilities still require human intervention and decision-making. The hands-on nature of working with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, in tandem with variable installation conditions, presents ongoing challenges for full automation. Therefore, although technology and robotics can streamline some procedures, comprehensive automation is constrained by the complexity and unpredictability of many work environments. Examining the most automatable tasks reveals that repetitive, standardized, or highly technical activities are the most vulnerable to automation. For example, "testing operation or functionality of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and control systems" can often be systematized using sensors and diagnostic software. Similarly, applying weather seals to roof penetrations and securely installing mounting devices on various roof types are tasks that could be performed by specially designed robotic systems. These tasks are characterized by repeatable processes with limited need for adaptation, making them more amenable to technological replacement, especially as robotics for construction and maintenance advance. On the contrary, tasks that require nuanced judgement, adaptability, and specialized knowledge exhibit strong resistance to automation. For instance, "applying ultraviolet radiation protection to prevent degradation of plumbing" may involve assessment of materials, environmental factors, and attention to detail that robots currently struggle to replicate. Assessing collector sites for structural integrity and optimal orientation further demands site-specific evaluation and problem-solving capabilities. Moreover, tasks like installing monitoring system components according to individual system designs and manufacturer specifications require both versatility and expertise. The presence of "originality" as a bottleneck skill, albeit at relatively low levels (2.9%-3.0%), illustrates that creativity and innovative problem-solving remain integral to the role, further buffering it from widespread automation in the immediate future.
Filter by Automatable Status
Test operation or functionality of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and control systems.
Partially Automatable
Apply weather seal, such as pipe flashings and sealants, to roof penetrations and structural devices.
Non-Automatable
Install copper or plastic plumbing using pipes, fittings, pipe cutters, acetylene torches, solder, wire brushes, sand cloths, flux, plastic pipe cleaners, or plastic glue.
Non-Automatable
Identify plumbing, electrical, environmental, or safety hazards associated with solar thermal installations.
Partially Automatable
Demonstrate start-up, shut-down, maintenance, diagnostic, and safety procedures to thermal system owners.
Non-Automatable
Install circulating pumps using pipe, fittings, soldering equipment, electrical supplies, and hand tools.
Non-Automatable
Install flat-plat, evacuated glass, or concentrating solar collectors on mounting devices, using brackets or struts.
Non-Automatable
Fill water tanks and check tanks, pipes, and fittings for leaks.
Partially Automatable
Determine locations for installing solar subsystem components, including piping, water heaters, valves, and ancillary equipment.
Partially Automatable
Perform routine maintenance or repairs to restore solar thermal systems to baseline operating conditions.
Partially Automatable
Install heat exchangers and heat exchanger fluids according to installation manuals and schematics.
Non-Automatable
Apply operation or identification tags or labels to system components, as required.
Automatable
Connect water heaters and storage tanks to power and water sources.
Non-Automatable
Cut, miter, and glue piping insulation to insulate plumbing pipes and fittings.
Non-Automatable
Install monitoring system components, such as flow meters, temperature gauges, and pressure gauges, according to system design and manufacturer specifications.
Non-Automatable
Assess collector sites to ensure structural integrity of potential mounting surfaces or the best orientation and tilt for solar collectors.
Partially Automatable
Apply ultraviolet radiation protection to prevent degradation of plumbing.
Non-Automatable
Install solar collector mounting devices on tile, asphalt, shingle, or built-up gravel roofs, using appropriate materials and penetration methods.
Non-Automatable
Install solar thermal system controllers and sensors.
Non-Automatable
Design active direct or indirect, passive direct or indirect, or pool solar systems.
Partially Automatable
Install plumbing, such as dip tubes, port fittings, drain tank valves, pressure temperature relief valves, or tanks, according to manufacturer specifications and building codes.
Non-Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringQuality Control AnalysisSystems AnalysisManagement of Material ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingService OrientationOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingJudgment and Decision MakingSystems EvaluationTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Personnel Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
Fine ArtsAdministration and ManagementAdministrativeEconomics and AccountingSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologyPsychologySociology and AnthropologyGeographyMedicine and DentistryForeign LanguageEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingPublic Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsCommunications and MediaTransportationTherapy and CounselingHistory and ArcheologyPhilosophy and Theology
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationGetting InformationIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentDocumenting/Recording InformationDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesPerforming General Physical Activities
PTC Pro/ENGINEER WildfireMicrosoft Visual Basic for Applications VBAInventory control system softwareWork scheduling softwareOracle JavaMicrosoft PowerPointAdobe PhotoshopSalesforce softwareDassault Systemes CATIADassault Systemes SolidWorksCost estimating softwareComputer-aided drafting or design softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft Word1CadCam UnigraphicsAutodesk AutoCADInventory control system softwareDassault Systemes CATIADassault Systemes SolidWorksAdobe PhotoshopCost estimating software1CadCam UnigraphicsMicrosoft Visual Basic for Applications VBAWork scheduling softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordSalesforce softwareOracle JavaWord processing softwareNational Instruments LabVIEWPTC Pro/ENGINEER WildfireAutodesk AutoCADProject management softwareProject management softwareWord processing softwareNational Instruments LabVIEWComputer-aided drafting or design softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Office software
Electrical Engineers
Medium51.39%
Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Medium52.65%
Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
Medium52.85%
Perform site-specific engineering analysis or evaluation of energy efficiency and solar projects involving residential, commercial, or industrial customers. Design solar domestic hot water and space heating systems for new and existing structures, applying knowledge of structural energy requirements, local climates, solar technology, and thermodynamics.
Solar Energy Installation Managers
Medium45.97%
Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.
Boilermakers
Low15.98%
Construct, assemble, maintain, and repair stationary steam boilers and boiler house auxiliaries. Align structures or plate sections to assemble boiler frame tanks or vats, following blueprints. Work involves use of hand and power tools, plumb bobs, levels, wedges, dogs, or turnbuckles. Assist in testing assembled vessels. Direct cleaning of boilers and boiler furnaces. Inspect and repair boiler fittings, such as safety valves, regulators, automatic-control mechanisms, water columns, and auxiliary machines.
Electricians
Low24.63%
Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Low7.42%
Line and cover structures with insulating materials. May work with batt, roll, or blown insulation materials.
Insulation Workers, Mechanical
Low21.99%
Apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Low23.86%
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Medium38.95%
Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.
Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Low13.20%
Help plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.
Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
Low25.44%
Repair, maintain, or install electric motors, wiring, or switches.
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door
Low30.04%
Install, repair, and maintain mechanical regulating and controlling devices, such as electric meters, gas regulators, thermostats, safety and flow valves, and other mechanical governors.
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Low27.13%
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
Wind Turbine Service Technicians
Medium47.24%
Inspect, diagnose, adjust, or repair wind turbines. Perform maintenance on wind turbine equipment including resolving electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic malfunctions.
Geothermal Technicians
Medium39.03%
Perform technical activities at power plants or individual installations necessary for the generation of power from geothermal energy sources. Monitor and control operating activities at geothermal power generation facilities and perform maintenance and repairs as necessary. Install, test, and maintain residential and commercial geothermal heat pumps.
Power Plant Operators
Medium52.63%
Control, operate, or maintain machinery to generate electric power. Includes auxiliary equipment operators.
Biomass Plant Technicians
Medium53.51%
Control and monitor biomass plant activities and perform maintenance as needed.
Hydroelectric Plant Technicians
Medium39.93%
Monitor and control activities associated with hydropower generation. Operate plant equipment, such as turbines, pumps, valves, gates, fans, electric control boards, and battery banks. Monitor equipment operation and performance and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Perform equipment maintenance and repair as necessary.
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Medium43.49%
Operate or maintain stationary engines, boilers, or other mechanical equipment to provide utilities for buildings or industrial processes. Operate equipment such as steam engines, generators, motors, turbines, and steam boilers.
Solar Sales Representatives and Assessors
Medium62.51%
Contact new or existing customers to determine their solar equipment needs, suggest systems or equipment, or estimate costs.
Weatherization Installers and Technicians
Medium33.33%
Perform a variety of activities to weatherize homes and make them more energy efficient. Duties include repairing windows, insulating ducts, and performing heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) work. May perform energy audits and advise clients on energy conservation measures.