Working in Solar Energy : Working in Solar Energy - Manufacturing Engineers

Making photovoltaic panels requires the work of many skilled workers, including semiconductor processors, computer-controlled machine tool operators, coating and painting workers.

The manufacturing of the upper glass of a Solar Panel includes many of the same occupations.

Semiconductor processors

Semiconductor processors are workers who oversee the manufacturing process of solar cells, they turn semiconductors into photovoltaic cells.

These cells are then arranged into larger solar panels.

The electrical circuitry of solar cells is very small, and microscopic contamination can render the cell useless.

Because of this, most of the manufacturing processes are automated, and it is important to have workers monitor the equipment and make adjustments as necessary.

Semiconductor processors test completed cells and perform diagnostic analyses.

These types of workers are trained on the job and gain expertise with Experience.

Computer skills are also necessary for this Job Profile.

Computer-Based Machine Operators (CNC)

Computer-Based Machine Operators are workers who run CNC machines, a machine tool that forms and shapes solar mirror or panel components.

Some of the more highly trained CNC workers also program the machines to cut new pieces according to design schematics.

CNC operators use machines to mass-produce components that require highly precise cutting.

Formal training programs and apprenticeships are required for this job profile.

Welding and Soldering Workers

Applying heat to metal pieces during the manufacturing process, welding and soldering workers melt the metals fusing them to form a permanent bond.

Welders join two or more pieces of metal by melting them together.

Soldering workers use a metal with a lower melting point than that of the original piece, so only the added metal is melted, preventing the piece from warping or distorting.

Solar panels are made up of many small cells that are soldered to electric circuitry.

This process may be automated, with workers monitoring the machines.

These workers are generally fresher with the minimum A-level requirement.

Coating Setters

Coating setters apply coatings to solar panels, which can be a complicated process that must be done with a high level of precision.

Mirrors in CSP plants are typically coated to protect them from the environment and to make them resistant to scratches and corrosion.

Solar photovoltaic panels are also covered in protective coatings, and these coatings increase the efficiency of the panels.

Before painting or coating a mirror or panel, workers prepare the surface by sanding or grinding away any imperfections.

After preparing the surface, it is carefully cleaned to prevent any dust or dirt from becoming trapped under the coating.

The coating is then applied by spraying it onto the panel.

Many manufacturers apply coatings through an automated process.

It is the workers' job to set up the systems, add solvents, monitor the equipment, and feed the pieces through the machines.

Coating and painting workers may be exposed to dangerous fumes from paint and coating solutions and other hazardous chemicals.

Workers are usually required to wear masks and special suits to protect them from the fumes produced by paint, solvents, and other chemicals.

This process may be automated, with workers monitoring the machines.

These workers are generally fresher with the minimum A-level requirement.

Electrical and Electronic Assemblers

Electrical and electronic equipment assemblers put together the final products and the components that go into them.

They are responsible for assembling the complex electrical circuitry in a photovoltaic panel, as well as assembling the components, such as inverters or controls, that connect to solar panels.

Many of these assemblers operate automated systems to assemble small electronic parts that are too small or fragile for human assembly.

Experience workers with Electronics or Semiconductors and bachelor's degrees are required for this job profile.

Industrial Production Managers

Industrial production managers plan, direct, and coordinate work on the factory floor.

They determine which machines will be used, whether new machines need to be purchased, when overtime shifts are necessary, and how to improve the production process.

They keep production runs on schedule and are responsible for solving problems that could jeopardize the quality of the components.

Industrial production managers are typically required to have college degrees in business administration, management, industrial technology, or engineering.

Industrial production managers are typically required to have college degrees in business administration, management, industrial technology, or engineering.