Solar PV QA Inspector

Responsibilities

A Solar QA Inspector performs quality assurance inspection services and reporting for residential and commercial photovoltaic system installations. Inspection services are provided by IBTS to third-party stakeholders to ensure compliance with relevant codes and standards, including electrical, building, mechanical, manufacturers installation instructions, and industry best practices.

A person in this position is expected to effectively demonstrate the following:

• Expertise in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) technologies and best practices applicable to installations of same, including ability to recognize quality standards, best practices and methods associated with such installations.
• Knowledge as to the practical application of corresponding building, electrical, and fire codes applicable to solar PV installations.
• Professionalism in customer communication and relations with all levels of clients and their customers, and coworkers.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders
• Ability to successfully complete projects on time.

Perform scheduled quality assurance (QA) inspections for solar PV systems in accordance with defined service level expectations.

• Ensure timely performance of inspections as determined by client agreements and communicated by the Project Manager and others.
• Perform QA inspections and audits of residential and commercial solar photovoltaic system installations.
• Inspect solar photovoltaic system installations, properties, and equipment for compliance with plans, specifications, and manufacturer requirements.
• Document the inspection results providing a full and complete photo set taken to illustrate the installation and all findings made on-site.
• Provide concise notes and descriptions to accompany photographic documentation of any identified quality issues, including those having deficiencies requiring corrective action.
• Complete and submit applicable inspection report along with a complete photo set and notes within 3 days of scheduled inspection date.
• Maintain data on residential PV products, installation instructions, test methods, and other documents as deemed appropriate and necessary for informed completion of the work. Must stay continually educated in solar product changes and code requirements.
• Participate in scheduled calls as provided or directed by Project Manager and others.
• Obtain and maintain certifications and/or licenses, as required to successfully complete the work as an industry recognized subject matter expert.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid Driver’s License and reliable vehicle transportation
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to details
• Own and be able to operate with efficiency and ease: cell phone, digital camera, and computer with internet access.
• Effective and competent use of commonly used software applications, including Microsoft Excel and Word applications.
• Effectively and professionally communicate with homeowners, business owners, PV installation contractors, and IBTS management team
• Ability to safely and proficiently utilize and operate basic tools including, but not limited to, ladder, electrical testing equipment, Personal Protection Equipment, measuring tape, compass, inclinometer, flashlight, and screw drivers
• Maintain any relevant certifications and/or licenses that are required by clients and/or local jurisdictions for carrying out assigned tasks
• Extensive knowledge of applicable codes, standards, and trade practices
• Working knowledge of reading construction plans, product, and equipment specifications, as well as product manufacturer installation instructions
• Any one of the following Certifications/ Licenses: Any NABCEP Board Certification applicable to solar photovoltaic systems, preferably the NABCEP Certified PV Installer (PVIP); OR UL PV Installer Certification; OR IBEW Journeyman; OR Professional Engineer; OR Licensed Electrician; OR a combination of NABCEP Associate Certification and Journeyman level electrician; OR International Code Council (ICC) certification as a Residential Electrical Inspector; OR Licensed as a General / Electrical Contractor; OR license/certification as a solar photovoltaic system installer.
• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Experience: Combined 3 years or more experience in design and/or installation of solar electrical systems and/or inspection of residential electrical or solar electrical systems
• Certification: OSHA 10-hour certification training

Key Skills/Competencies

• Extensive knowledge of NEC electrical codes, installation standards, and best trade practices applicable to installing, maintaining, and servicing solar photovoltaic systems on residential and commercial buildings. 
• Extensive knowledge of common equipment and its purpose, used in the installation, maintenance, and servicing of solar photovoltaic systems on residential and commercial buildings. 
• Proficiency in the use of common tools necessary for installing, maintaining, and servicing solar photovoltaic systems.
• High degree of comfort working in environments where solar PV systems are commonly installed, maintained, and serviced.

Personal Qualities

IBTS places a high value on certain personal traits that work toward creating a positive, supportive work environment, which is essential for working together and achieving success.  We believe that the manner in which you achieve your results is equally important as the results themselves. The following are key personal traits essential for success in senior leadership roles within our organization.

• Strategic/Innovative Thinking
• Professional and Effective Interpersonal Skills
• Delegation with Team Accountability
• Risk Evaluation/Management/Mitigation
• Relationship Building: Internal and External

Company Overview

Bring your passion, expertise, and experience to IBTS, where we appreciate and are committed to our employees. We offer outstanding benefits, growth opportunities, and work hard to maintain a culture that values our employees. 

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established to provide unbiased professional building code compliance services, while enhancing the communities in which we work. At IBTS, our mission is to deliver quality services to meet the challenges of governance at all levels while enhancing public safety, economic development, and the general welfare of the community. Our services include Building and Community Development, Energy and Sustainability Services, Disaster Planning and Recovery, Quality Assurance, as well as Compliance and Risk Monitoring.

IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, VA, with additional offices in Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC.

We are committed to building a community of experts with diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives who are passionate about our mission. IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer that maintains a diverse and inclusive workforce.  All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents.  Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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