← BlogNovember 25, 20225 min readEditorial teamDEUAENRU
For Workers
Becoming a Solar Installer: Duties, Requirements and Life on the Roof
Photovoltaics is growing and businesses are looking for installers. Here you will learn what a solar installer does, what you need to get started and what everyday life on assembly looks like.
What does a solar installer do?
A solar installer installs photovoltaic systems on roofs and open land. You work in a team: some prepare the roof, others mount the modules, others take care of cables and connections. Demand is high because demand for solar systems is rising.
Typical tasks
- Attach roof hooks and mounting rails
- Fix solar modules to the roof or frame
- Lay DC cables and fit connectors
- Help install the inverter and accessories
- Carry material to the roof and secure the site
- Document the installation and tidy up the site
Important: electrical work
Connection to the grid, commissioning and work on the inverter and meter cabinet may only be carried out by qualified electricians. As an installation helper you work under guidance and only on parts released for that. Always ask what your task is.
Requirements
- Head for heights and physical fitness
- Manual skill, care, teamwork
- A driving licence is often helpful
- Training is an advantage but not always required for installation helpers
- Valid work papers, as described in Working in Germany: documents
Safety on the roof
Fall protection is mandatory: harnesses, roof safety scaffolding or edge protection, helmet, safety shoes and gloves. The business must provide the necessary protective equipment and instruct you. What this includes is in Work Clothing and Protective Equipment. No work is done on the roof in rain, ice or strong wind.
Assembly work, travel and housing
Many installers work at changing sites and stay away overnight. Clarify housing, travel costs and meal allowances beforehand. Tax-free meal allowances in 2022 are €14 for absences of more than 8 hours and €28 for 24 hours per day, provided they are paid to you. The minimum wage has been €12 gross per hour since 1 October 2022; in the electrical trades collective agreements often apply.
Checklist before you start
- Tasks and place of work clarified
- Written contract with hourly pay and working hours
- Fall protection and helmet provided by the business
- Housing, travel and allowances clarified
- Safety induction received
Frequently asked questions
Do I need training as a solar installer?
Not always for installation helpers. Electrical connection work may only be done by qualified electricians.
Do I need a head for heights?
Yes, much of the work is on roofs, with fall protection.
Who provides the protective equipment?
The employer must provide necessary protective equipment free of charge.
How much does a solar installer earn?
At least €12 gross per hour since 1 October 2022, often more under collective agreements in the electrical trades.