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ESCO occupation

solar energy technician

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Solar energy technicians install and maintain systems that collect solar energy. They prepare the necessary fixtures, often on roofs, install solar panels, and plug them into an electronic system including an inverter to connect the solar energy systems to the electricity lines.

7411.1.4 ISCO 7411 ESCO source
Competences
93
Groups
4
Essential
25
Optional
68

Competences and skills

93 ESCO relations
Essential knowledge 7 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

1 competence
photovoltaic systems

Systems that convert a renewable source as the sun into electrical energy. Based in the energy conversion chain, photovoltaic systems could be divided into three types: grid direct PV systems, grid-interaction systems, and off grid PV systems.

green
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Cross-sector

6 competences
alternative energy

Sources of energy that do not originate from fossil fuels and have few greenhouse emissions.

green
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electrical wiring plans

Pictorial representation of an electrical circuit. It shows the components of the circuit as simplified shapes, and the power and signal connections between the devices. It gives information about the relative position and arrangement of devices and terminals on the devices, to help in building or servicing the device. A wiring diagram is often used to troubleshoot problems and to make sure that all the connections have been made and that everything is present.

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electricity

The principles of electricity and electrical power circuits, as well as the associated risks.

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mechanics

Theoretical and practical applications of the science studying the action of displacements and forces on physical bodies to the development of machinery and mechanical devices.

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solar energy

The energy which originates from light and heat from the sun, and which can be harnessed and used as a renewable source of energy using different technologies, such as photovoltaics (PV) for electricity production and solar thermal energy (STE) for thermal energy generation.

green
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solar products

The varieties and key features of solar products such as solar panels, solar water heaters or solar-powered chargers. Moreover, the knowledge of their functionalities, components and legal requirements.

green
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Essential skills and competences 18 competences

Occupation specific

3 competences
install concentrated solar power systems

Install systems which use reflective materials, such as lenses and mirrors, and tracking systems to concentrate sunlight into a beam, which powers an electrical power plant through its heat generation.

green
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install photovoltaic systems

Install systems which generate electrical energy through the conversion of light into electric currents, the photovoltaic effect. Ensure compliance with regulations, and correct installation of the photovoltaic power system.

green
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mount photovoltaic panels

Securely install photovoltaic panels using a specified mounting system and on the defined position and inclination.

green
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Sector-specific

4 competences
check compatibility of materials

Make sure the materials are fit to be used together, and if there are any foreseeable interferences.

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interpret 2D plans

Interpret and understand plans and drawings in manufacturing processes which include representations in two dimensions.

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operate solar thermal energy systems for hot water and heating

Use solar tube collectors systems to generate and store domestic potable hot water and heating, in order to increase energy performance.

green
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transport construction supplies

Bring construction materials, tools and equipment to the construction site and store them properly taking various aspects into account such as the workers' safety and protection from deterioration.

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Cross-sector

11 competences
comply with legal regulations

Ensure you are properly informed of the legal regulations that govern a specific activity and adhere to its rules, policies and laws.

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follow health and safety procedures in construction

Apply the relevant health and safety procedures in construction in order to prevent accidents, pollution and other risks.

green
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follow safety procedures when working at heights

Take necessary precautions and follow a set of measures that assess, prevent and tackle risks when working at a high distance from the ground. Prevent endangering people working under these structures and avoid falls from ladders, mobile scaffolding, fixed working bridges, single person lifts etc. since they may cause fatalities or major injuries.

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inspect construction supplies

Check construction supplies for damage, moisture, loss or other problems before using the material.

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inspect electrical supplies

Check electrical supplies for damage, moisture, loss or other problems.

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install circuit breakers

Install electrical switches designed to switch off automatically in case of an overload or short-circuit. Organise circuit breakers in the panel logically. Make sure no foreign objects are introduced into the panel. Use only circuit breakers approved for the panel, usually the same manufacturer.

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install electrical and electronic equipment

Install equipment which is dependent on electric currents or electromagnetic fields in order to work, or equipment to generate, transfer or measure such currents and fields. This equipment includes switchboards, electric motors, generators or direct current systems.

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interpret 3D plans

Interpret and understand plans and drawings in manufacturing processes which include representations in three dimensions.

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test procedures in electricity transmission

Perform tests on powerlines and cables, as well as other equipment used for the transmission of electrical power, in order to ensure the cables are well insulated, the voltage can be controlled well, and the equipment is compliant with regulations.

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use measurement instruments

Use different measurement instruments depending on the property to be measured. Utilise various instruments to measure length, area, volume, speed, energy, force, and others.

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work ergonomically

Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.

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Optional knowledge 31 competences

Occupation specific

0 competences

No competences in this bucket.

Sector-specific

16 competences
3D printing process

The process of reproducing 3D objects by using 3D printing technologies.

digital
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cloud technologies

The technologies which enable access to hardware, software, data and services through remote servers and software networks irrespective of their location and architecture.

digital
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data mining

The methods of artificial intelligence, machine learning, statistics and databases used to extract content from a dataset.

digital
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data storage

The physical and technical concepts of how digital data storage is organised in specific schemes both locally, such as hard-drives and random-access memories (RAM) and remotely, via network, internet or cloud.

digital
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electric heating systems

Electric heating systems contribute to indoor comfort and energy saving under the right conditions (low frequency use, or very highly insulated buildings). They include InfraRed and electric floor/wall heating.

green
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ICT software specifications

The characteristics, use and operations of various software products such as computer programmes and application software.

digital
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information extraction

The techniques and methods used for eliciting and extracting information from unstructured or semi-structured digital documents and sources.

digital
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information structure

The type of infrastructure which defines the format of data: semi-structured, unstructured and structured.

digital
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maintenance of printing machines

Upkeep procedures and technical working of machines that produce printed graphical material.

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printing materials

The materials, such as paper, film, metal foils, and glass, on which texts or designs can be transferred by applying ink through direct pressure or with intermediate rollers.

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printing on large scale machines

Methods, processes, and restrictions related to printing on machines that produce large quantities and sizes of graphic print materials.

digital
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smart grids systems

Smart grids are a digital electricity network. The system involves the electronic digital control of production, distribution and use of electricity, information management of the components and energy saving.

digitalgreen
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solar panel mounting systems

Different ways of setting up solar panels, such as pole mounting, where the panels are fixed to a surface, ballasted mounting, where weights are used to keep the panels in place, and solar tracking, where panels are mounted on a moving surface in order to follow the sun through the sky for optimal insolation.

green
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unstructured data

The information that is not arranged in a pre-defined manner or does not have a pre-defined data model and is difficult to understand and find patterns in without using techniques such as data mining.

digital
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visual presentation techniques

The visual representation and interaction techniques, such as histograms, scatter plots, surface plots, tree maps and parallel coordinate plots, that can be used to present abstract numerical and non-numerical data, in order to reinforce the human understanding of this information.

digital
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zero-energy building design

The design and building principle whereby the net amount of energy used by the building equals the amount of renewable energy created by the building itself. The concept refers to self-sustaining constructions.

green
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Cross-sector

15 competences
3D modelling

The process of developing a mathematical representation of any three-dimensional surface of an object via specialised software. The product is called a 3D model. It can be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering or used in a computer simulation of physical phenomena. The model can also be physically created using 3D printing devices.

digital
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automation technology

Set of technologies that make a process, system, or apparatus operate automatically through the use of control systems.

digital
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building codes

The set of guidelines that determine the minimum standards for buildings and other constructions in order to protect public health and safety.

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business intelligence

The tools used to transform large amounts of raw data into relevant and helpful business information.

digital
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CAD software

The computer-aided design (CAD) software for creating, modifying, analysing or optimising a design.

digital
Scope note
CAD software should be differentiated from computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software. CADD systems are CAD systems with additional drafting features. For example, CADD systems enable an engineer or architect to insert size annotations and other notes into a design.
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control engineering

Subdiscipline of engineering that focuses on controlling the behaviour of systems through the use of sensors and actuators.

digital
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energy conservation

The practice of reducing energy consumption and using fewer energy services. As a sustainable process, energy conservation is done by replacing used energy with alternative sources, using more efficient energy products, or refraining from particular energy products or services to conserve it.

green
Scope note
Excludes energy efficiency
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maintenance operations

The preservation and restoration of products and systems, and the methods and logistics of these practices.

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mechatronics

Multidisciplinary field of engineering that combines principles of electrical engineering, telecommunications engineering, control engineering, computer engineering, and mechanical engineering in the design of products and manufacturing processes. The combination of these areas of engineering allows for the design and development of "smart" devices and the achievement of an optimal balance between mechanical structure and control.

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printing techniques

The techniques and processes to reproduce text and images using a master form or template such as letterpress printing, gravure, and laser printing.

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robotic components

The components that can be found in robotic systems, such as microprocessors, electronics, sensors, circuit boards, encoders, servomotors, controllers, pneumatics or hydraulics.

digital
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robotics

The branch of engineering that involves the design, operation, manufacture, and application of robots. Robotics is part of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science and overlaps with mechatronics and automation engineering.

digital
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sensors

Sensors are transducers that can detect or sense characteristics in their environment. They detect changes in the apparatus or environment and provide a corresponding optical or electrical signal. Sensors are commonly divided in six classes: mechanical, electronic, thermal, magnetic, electrochemical, and optical sensors.

digital
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statistical analysis system software

Specific software system (SAS) used for advanced analytics, business intelligence, data management, and predictive analytics.

digital
Scope note
This includes SPSS
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types of photovoltaic panels

Different types of photovoltaic cells and panels, with different efficiencies in different types of weather, costs, durability and lifespan ratings, and mounting possibilities.

green
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Optional skills and competences 37 competences

Occupation specific

2 competences
install inverter

Install a power inverter, which converts direct current electricity to alternating current electricity to make the energy compatible with the grid.

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use specific data analysis software

Use specific software for data analysis, including statistics, spreadsheets, and databases. Explore possibilities in order to make reports to managers, superiors, or clients.

digital
ESCO source

Sector-specific

15 competences
assemble mechatronic units

Assemble mechatronic units using mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, and information technology systems and components. Manipulate and attach metals through using welding and soldering techniques, glue, screws, and rivets. Install wiring. Install drive systems, sensors, actuators, and transducers. Mount switches, control devices, coverings, and protection.

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assemble sensors

Mount chips on a sensor substrate and attach them using soldering or wafer bumping techniques.

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demonstrate products' features

Demonstrate how to use a product in a correct and safe manner, provide customers with information on the product's main features and benefits, explain operation, correct use and maintenance. Persuade potential customers to purchase items.

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install automation components

Install the automation components according to the specifications of the circuit diagram.

digital
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install mechatronic equipment

Install equipment used for the automation of a specific machine or device.

digital
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maintain robotic equipment

Diagnose and detect malfunctions in robotic components and systems and remove, replace, or repair these components when necessary. Execute preventative equipment maintenance tasks, such as storing robotic components in clean, dust-free, and non-humid spaces.

digital
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manage data

Administer all types of data resources through their lifecycle by performing data profiling, parsing, standardisation, identity resolution, cleansing, enhancement and auditing. Ensure the data is fit for purpose, using specialised ICT tools to fulfil the data quality criteria.

digital
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monitor stock level

Evaluate how much stock is used and determine what should be ordered.

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operate 3D computer graphics software

Use graphical ICT tools, such as Autodesk Maya, Blender which enable digital editing, modelling, rendering and composition of graphics. These tools are based in mathematical representation of three-dimensional objects.

digital
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operate printing machinery

Operate machinery for various types of printed documents, adjusting the font, paper size, and weight. This allows ascenders and descenders to be correctly placed.

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perform data mining

Explore large datasets to reveal patterns using statistics, database systems or artificial intelligence and present the information in a comprehensible way.

digital
Scope note
Includes activities on big data.
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process incoming construction supplies

Receive incoming construction supplies, handle the transaction and enter the supplies into any internal administration system.

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test mechatronic units

Test mechatronic units using appropriate equipment. Gather and analyse data. Monitor and evaluate system performance and take action if needed.

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utilise machine learning

Use techniques and algorithms that are able to extract mastery out of data, learn from it and make predictions, to be used for program optimisation, application adaptation, pattern recognition, filtering, search engines and computer vision.

digital
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work in a construction team

Work as part of a team in a construction project. Communicate efficiently, sharing information with team members and reporting to supervisors. Follow instructions and adapt to changes in a flexible manner.

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Cross-sector

20 competences
analyse big data

Collect and evaluate numerical data in large quantities, especially for the purpose of identifying patterns between the data.

digital
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analyse test data

Interpret and analyse data collected during testing in order to formulate conclusions, new insights or solutions.

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answer requests for quotation

Make up prices and documents for the products that customers may purchase.

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calculate needs for construction supplies

Take measurements on site and estimate the amount of materials required for the construction or restoration project.

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calculate solar panel orientation

Calculate the optimal placement of solar panels. Take into account the longitude, seasonal insolation values, the direction of true south, and the placement of any shadow-casting structures in order to find the best location and inclination for the panels.

green
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design prototypes

Design prototypes of products or components of products by applying design and engineering principles.

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determine suitability of materials

While designing products, determine if materials are suitable and available for production.

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estimate profitability

Take various factors into account to calculate the cost and potential revenues or savings gained from a product in order to evaluate the profit that could be generated by the new acquisition or by a new project.

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keep personal administration

File and organise personal administration documents comprehensively.

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maintain equipment

Regularly inspect and perform all required activities to maintain the equipment in functional order prior or after its use.

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maintain solar energy systems

Test the performance of the solar panels, read the measuring meters to check electricity indicators, identify and remedy malfunctions, and clean the panels if necessary.

green
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maintain work area cleanliness

Keep the working area and equipment clean and orderly.

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manage quantitative data

Gather, process and present quantitative data. Use the appropriate programs and methods for validating, organising and interpreting data.

digital
Scope note
Excludes .
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order construction supplies

Order required materials for the construction project, taking care to purchase the most suitable material for a good price.

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provide information on solar panels

Provide organisations and individuals searching for alternative methods to provide facilities and residences with energy on the costs, benefits, and negative aspects of the installation and use of solar panels, and what one must take into account when considering the purchase and installation of solar systems.

green
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rig loads

Safely attach loads to different types of hooks and attachments, taking into account the weight of the load, the power available to move it, static and dynamic tolerances of all instruments and materials, and the mass distribution of the system. Communicate with the operator verbally or with gestures to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operation. Detach loads.

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test sensors

Test sensors using appropriate equipment. Gather and analyse data. Monitor and evaluate system performance and take action if needed.

digital
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use CAD software

Use computer-aided design (CAD) systems to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimisation of a design.

digital
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use safety equipment in construction

Use elements of protective clothing such as steel-tipped shoes, and gear such as protective goggles, in order to minimise risk of accidents in construction and to mitigate any injury if an accident does occur.

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use technical drawing software

Create technical designs and technical drawings using specialised software.

digital
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