Prescreening Questions to Ask Orbital Solar Farm Technician

Describe your experience with maintaining and troubleshooting solar power systems.

Start by getting a good sense of the candidate’s overall experience in the field. It's like asking a chef how long they've been cooking; it gives you a foundation to build on. Listen for specifics—how many years have they been at it? What types of systems have they worked on? Have they handled both residential and commercial projects? The more detailed their experience, the better.

How familiar are you with the safety protocols for working on solar installations?

Safety first, always. Knowledge of safety protocols isn't just a bonus; it's a must. Ask about the candidate’s training in safety procedures. Have they completed any certifications? Do they know how to properly lockout/tagout (LOTO) systems? Their familiarity with safety rules can make all the difference between a job well-done and a potential hazard.

Have you ever worked on remote monitoring systems for solar farms?

Technology plays a massive role in modern solar farms. Remote monitoring systems are like the eyes and ears of an installation. If a candidate has hands-on experience with these systems, it's a big plus. Inquire about the types of monitoring systems they've used and how they ensure these systems remain functional and accurate.

What types of solar inverters have you worked with?

Solar inverters are the heart of any solar power system. Asking about the types (string, micro, or central inverters) they’ve worked with can shed light on their technical versatility. It’s like knowing if a musician can play more than one instrument; the more they know, the more valuable they are.

Explain a time when you had to diagnose and fix an electrical issue in a solar system.

Storytime! Real-world examples provide a window into their problem-solving abilities. Pay attention to how they diagnosed the issue, the steps they took to fix it, and the outcome. This will give you a solid sense of their troubleshooting skills and their approach to tackling electrical issues.

How do you ensure that solar panels are producing at their optimal efficiency?

Efficiency matters. Find out what regular checks and procedures they follow to ensure maximum efficiency. Do they clean the panels periodically? Check for shading issues? Use any specific tools or software for efficiency checks? Their methods can tell you how proactive and thorough they are.

What software tools do you use for tracking performance and maintenance schedules?

Software can be a game-changer for managing solar systems. Ask about the tools they use for tracking performance metrics and keeping maintenance schedules. Popular tools might include SolarEdge, SMA Sunny Portal, or even custom software. Knowing their proficiency with these tools can give you insights into their organizational skills.

Can you describe your experience with battery storage systems integrated with solar farms?

Battery storage is like the cherry on top of the renewable energy sundae. It’s crucial for energy storage and management. Ask about their experience with different types of battery systems, such as lithium-ion or lead-acid. Their familiarity with integrating and maintaining these systems can be a significant asset.

Discuss your familiarity with National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations as they pertain to solar installations.

Understanding NEC regulations is not optional; it’s required. A candidate should be well-versed in these guidelines to ensure installations are safe and compliant. Ask about their knowledge of NEC codes, especially Articles 690 and 705, which are directly related to solar PV systems.

Have you worked with both ground-mounted and rooftop solar PV systems?

The landscape changes as you go from rooftops to ground mounts, literally. Each comes with its own set of challenges. Ask if they’ve worked on both types and what differences they’ve noticed. Their adaptability in handling different installation environments can be crucial for diverse projects.

Describe any experience you have with grid-tied vs. off-grid solar systems.

Grid-tied systems are like being plugged into the main power supply, while off-grid is navigating solo. Each has its unique needs and setups. Understanding their experience with both can showcase their versatility and preparedness for different project requirements.

What kind of preventive maintenance do you regularly perform on solar equipment?

Preventive maintenance is akin to getting regular dental checkups; it keeps everything in good shape. Ask about their routine maintenance tasks—checking connections, inspecting for damage, cleaning panels, etc. Their regular maintenance schedule can be a testament to their diligence and attention to detail.

Have you participated in the commissioning of a new solar farm? Describe the process.

Commissioning is the home stretch of a solar farm project. Get details about their role in this process. What testing and verifications did they perform? How did they ensure everything was up to code and fully operational? Their experience in commissioning reveals their ability to see a project through from start to finish.

Are you experienced with using drones for inspecting solar arrays?

Drones are the new superheroes of solar inspections. If the candidate has used them, ask about the specific tasks they performed with drones—thermal imaging, visual inspections, etc. Their comfort level with drone technology signifies their readiness to embrace innovative solutions.

How do you handle and dispose of materials that need to be replaced or repaired?

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility. Inquire about their methods for handling and disposing of damaged or old materials. Are they aware of proper disposal regulations? Their approach to this speaks volumes about their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Do you have experience with predictive maintenance techniques in solar farms?

Preventive maintenance is great, but predictive maintenance is like having a crystal ball. If they’ve used predictive techniques, ask about the tools and methods they’ve employed. This could include IoT sensors and advanced analytics. Their insights here can show a proactive approach to avoiding issues before they arise.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) do you consider essential for this role?

Safety gear is non-negotiable. From gloves to hard hats, ask about the essential PPE they always use. Knowing their preferred safety gear and whether they adhere to PPE protocols gives you a sense of their commitment to personal and team safety.

How do you stay current with the latest advancements in solar technology?

The solar industry is ever-evolving. Ask how they keep up with the latest trends and tech. Do they attend workshops, webinars, or read industry journals? Staying updated is crucial for staying ahead, and their answer will tell you how committed they are to continuous learning.

Describe an instance where you had to collaborate with a team to solve a complex technical problem.

Teamwork makes the dream work. Ask about a time they had to solve a tricky problem with their team. How did they communicate? What was their role? Their ability to collaborate effectively can be just as important as their technical skills.

What steps would you take if you noticed a significant drop in the power output of a solar array?

Performance drops can be puzzling. Ask them to walk you through their diagnostic steps. Do they check the panels, inverters, or maybe the software? Their methodical approach to identifying and solving the issue will give you a clear sense of their troubleshooting expertise.