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Photovoltaic (PV) System Designer

Develop design specifications for solar energy systems, perform computer simulations, optimize efficiency, and provide technical support to installation teams.

  • Design
Electrical worker in safety gear looking at a laptop in front of some solar panels

Job Requirements

Photovoltaic (PV) System Designers create electrical three-line diagrams for solar electric systems using computer-aided design software.

They develop design specifications and requirements for solar energy systems, perform computer simulations of solar PV generation system performance to optimize efficiency, provide technical support to installation teams, and perform a variety of analyses for solar systems.

Educational requirements:
Most designers have extensive experience as Solar PV Installers and/or an engineering degree or engineering diploma.

Courses and certification are available for PV system designers but are not mandatory for practice.

National Occupational Standard

NOS are a benchmark of the knowledge and abilities needed to be competent in a particular occupation. Developed by current job incumbents, NOS are a collection of the individual competencies that make up the whole picture of an occupation.

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Download Chart of Competency

Related NOC code:

  • 22211 – Industrial Designers

Working Conditions

Two programers holding laptop with coding interface
  • Working with existing and potential clients and other stakeholders to create a feasible design and business case for an energy/electrical project.
  • Design work is typically completed in an office environment using computer-aided design software and specialized design software.
  • Designers and Design Technologists also conduct field visits during the design and implementation phases and liaise with clients, on a regular basis.