Solar PV Technician
One of the fastest-growing green careers in Sri Lanka — if you want to work with your hands, be outside, and contribute directly to Sri Lanka's solar energy revolution with strong earning and entrepreneurship potential, solar PV is an exceptional choice.”
About This Role
Installs and maintains rooftop and ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems. Sri Lanka's net-metering scheme (PUCSL) has created a large market. Certified by SLEEC (Sri Lanka Energy Engineers Certification). NVQ Level 4/5 pathway in electrical installations covers solar.
A Day in the Life
Install, commission, and maintain solar photovoltaic systems for homes, businesses, and utility-scale solar farms across Sri Lanka, connecting systems to the CEB grid under the net metering programme.
- Install solar panels on rooftops and mounting structures
- Wire DC circuits from solar panels to inverters and battery storage systems
- Commission grid-tied inverters and test system output
- Submit CEB net metering applications and coordinate grid connection inspections
- Carry out preventive maintenance (panel cleaning, inverter checks, wiring inspections)
- Troubleshoot underperforming systems using monitoring software
- Prepare site assessment reports and system sizing proposals for customers
Work Environment
Outdoor installation work on rooftops and open land — sun exposure, working at heights. Based at solar company office with daily site visits across the province.
Typical hours: 48h/week · WLB score 6/10 · OCCASIONAL overtime
Active outdoor work with good hours. Peak installation periods busy. Physical but satisfying daily work.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
Soft Skills
Tools & Software
Salary in Sri Lanka (LKR / month)
Typical progression: 3yr to mid · 7yr to senior
Global Salary (USD / year)
Top Markets
Market Outlook
GROWING
Sri Lanka has 700MW+ of installed solar capacity with massive growth planned. CEB net metering programme, industrial solar adoption, and utility-scale projects (Mannar, Siyambalanduwa) are driving explosive demand for solar technicians.
Hiring: HIGH
GROWING
Solar PV skills are in extremely high demand globally — Australia, UK, USA, and Middle East are actively recruiting solar technicians.
Entry Requirements
Sri Lanka
Preferred
Global
Preferred
Helpful Certifications
Entrepreneurship & Freelancing
Freelance earnings: $500–$3000/mo (USD)
Platforms (SL)
Business Ideas
- Solar installation and maintenance company
- Solar system design and consultancy
- Solar panel cleaning and maintenance service
Side Income Ideas
CEB Approved Installer programme; NAITA certifies solar technicians; EDB supports renewable energy businesses
Risks & Challenges
AI / Automation Risk
LOW
LONG TERM
Burnout Risk
LOW
Job Security (SL)
HIGH
Physical installation and troubleshooting of rooftop solar systems is field-based work that requires human presence and judgment.
Burnout Causes
Physical Health Risks
Mental Health Risks
How to Mitigate
- Always use fall arrest harness on rooftops
- Cover panels with opaque sheet when working on DC wiring
- Get CEB Approved Installer registration — required for net metering work
Is This Career For You?
Practically minded, physically active person with electrical skills or interest who wants to be part of Sri Lanka's renewable energy transformation with excellent opportunities to build their own business.
Personality Types
Core Motivations
What You'll Love
- Contributing to Sri Lanka's clean energy future
- Visible daily impact
- Strong entrepreneurship potential
- Growing field with excellent job security
What's Challenging
- Physical outdoor work in heat
- Safety risks at height
- Occasional difficult CEB net metering approval process
Reviews & Ratings
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