Solar Technical & Field service engineers - where are you?!?!

There's two reasons to be really cheerful in the UK solar industry right now. Firstly, the amount of installed PV in 2022 edges closer to the magical 1GW number (and will surpass well beyond in 2023 by all predictions). Secondly, the total number of installations across the last 10-15 years is contributing to the market for O&M including repowering (replacing modules) and replacing (inverters which often have a similar design life). In my own home for example, I am STILL working with the original inverter from 2011. I am sure it will be need to be replaced soon, an dwill enlist the help of an engineer.

But with all of this business in both new installations and repowering/replacing, there still seems to be a lack of people in supporting roles such as Technical Services and Field Services. This thought is echoed with every recruiter and manufacturer I am connected with. But I do wonder why? So I started with the problem and try to come up with some conclusion at the end.

What are the day-to-day activities of Technical Support?

Well, that really depends on the individual role. Many roles I've come across online are focused more on helping new customers plan their projects, ensuring the right products and practices are used, practically an oversight on projects that are a little less ordinary. Or perhaps it's a new or inexperienced installer that has practical questions in advance. These roles are often home-based or office-based and are often available at manufacturers and distributors.

Service roles are generally more focused on troubleshooting and customer care. For example, the installer is on-site and needs some help with an error code that's popped up unexpectedly. These roles often are challenging as time is usually of the essence.

Field roles are usually an extension of the Service roles I've mentioned but you may be visiting customer sites, solar farms, factory units and residential customers - all depending on the type of business that the manufacturer is involved in. It could be to troubleshoot, to help educate or to help upgrade something. This is also a role which can often come with a car or van to travel to location.

Who are the companies and how do they differ?

That's a hard question but they usually fall into the categories mentioned: manufacturers, distributors or installers. Most roles sit within large businesses. Let's take manufacturers as an example, you will often be part of a local or international team. There will often be colleagues in the same office or region as you.

How do I become a Technical Support or Field Service Technician?

This allows me to draw upon the headline "Solar Technical & Field Service Engineers - where are you?!?! - there's simply not enough to satisfy the growing demand. You definitely don't need direct experience, many are happy to consider Engineers and Technicians that may come from the talented pool of UK solar installers or distributors. Often training is provided and the professional roles also offer career pathways and growth opportunities. Within larger organisations there are several tiers of expertise, meaning that more complex projects are handled by very experienced technicians.

It could be that you'd like to focus less on cold morning rooftops and solar farms, and spend more time problem solving from an office or van. It can often be the next career move for many installers, electricians, roofers etc.

Where do I find these roles?

I am a huge fan of searching LinkedIn for roles like this. Simply type in a keyword and location into Linkedin Jobs. (Tip: locations are often wider than you think: search across UK to see hybrid and Work from home roles).

I am able to highlight one role here today which is a possible short-cut for you. It's being served by our friends at AD Energy - a very well-known recruitment business in the UK market. This is not the only relevant role but one which I think could be interesting to you...

Role: Technical Service Engineer - For a brilliant but confidential Solar Manufacturer - Home-based UK

Often manufacturers do not advertise that they are hiring, as in this case. I am privy to a bit more info, and the manufacturer is a true leader in smart solar technology. I won't bore you with the long job description (ask AD Energy for that) but it's to be responsible for the technical services and support for UK customers such as installers and distributors. They are ideally seeking someone 'Tech savvy' with experience in complete Solar/BESS systems. Could you fit into a role like this?

For an informal discussion, please do reach out to Chiu-Yee Cheung by email or LinkedIn.