Solar Photovoltaic Installer Interview Questions & Answers
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, set up, and maintain rooftop or other systems that convert sunlight into energy.
Interviewers look for candidates that demonstrate excellent skills such as:
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work at heights
- Physical stamina
- Mechanical skills
- Physical strength
- Math skills
In this blog, we discuss commonly asked interview questions during job interviews for solar photovoltaic (PV) positions. We also discuss the qualities that interviewers look for in successful candidates. In other words, we’re here to help you out!
Also, read more about frequently asked job interview questions here and check our job interview preparation checklist.
Skills Interviewers Look For In Successful Candidates
Below we discuss the skills you can highlight in your answers to demonstrate that you’re qualified for the job.
Ability to work at heights
Why interviewers are interested in your ability to work at heights:
PV installers often must work on roofs, ladders, or lifts that are far above the ground.
Communication skills
Why interviewers are interested in your communication skills:
PV installers need to convey information effectively to clients, team members, and other workers.
Learn more about communication interview questions and how to answer them!
Attention to detail
Why interviewers are interested in your attention to detail:
PV installers must carefully follow instructions to ensure that the system works properly.
Math skills
Why interviewers are interested in your math skills:
PV installers use algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to calculate angles, measurements, and areas.
Mechanical skills
Why interviewers are interested in your mechanical skills:
PV installers work with complex electrical and mechanical equipment in order to build support structures for solar panels, connect the panels to the electrical system, and troubleshoot problems.
Physical stamina
Why interviewers are interested in your physical stamina:
PV installers are often on their feet, carrying panels and other heavy equipment. Especially when installing rooftop panels, workers may need to climb ladders many times throughout the day.
Physical strength
Why interviewers are interested in your physical strength:
PV installers must lift heavy equipment and materials weighing up to 60 pounds.
(source: bls.gov)
Solar Photovoltaic Installer Interview Questions & Answers
During a job interview, the hiring manager wants to discuss several things. Think of your:
- Employment history
- Skills and abilities
- Accomplishments
- Job qualifications
- Educational background
- Career goals
- Personality
Below you find a list of commonly asked interview questions.
Examples Of General Solar Photovoltaic Installer Interview Questions
- Tell me about yourself.
- How would you describe yourself?
- Why do you want to work here?
- What interests you about this position?
- Walk me through your resume.
- What motivates you?
- Why are you leaving your current job?
- Describe your work ethic.
- What is your greatest strength?
- How does your experience qualify you for this job?
- What is your greatest weakness?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- Tell me about a challenging work situation and how you overcame it.
- What are your expectations for this position?
- What are your career goals?
- Why should we hire you?
- What did you like most about your last position?
- What did you like least about your last position?
- How do you handle stress?
- What is your greatest accomplishment?
Learn how to answer these common job interview questions!
Examples Of Specific Solar Photovoltaic Installer Behavioral Interview Questions
Learn more about answering behavioral interview questions by using the STAR interview technique.
- What has been the most challenging project you have worked on so far?
- Describe the skills that you think are required for a solar photovoltaic installer to be successful.
- What types of projects have you been involved in? How do they relate to the position?
- What methods do you use to overcome difficulties in a project?
- Tell me about the current trends or developments that you are most excited about and why.
- Describe a time you took the lead on a project. How did you manage it to make sure all deadlines were met?
- Tell me about a rewarding teamwork experience. What made it rewarding for you?
- Describe a time you thought out of the box to solve a problem.
- Do you consider yourself a strong critical-thinker? Can you give me an example?
- How do you ensure you minimize the risk of errors in your work?
- Walk me through the knowledge elements you got from your education and work experience that would support your career as a solar photovoltaic installer.
Learn more about questions to ask the interviewer during your job interview.